Front Sight Apertures Metal, Clear, Adjustable??

[K38]

In my continuing need to shoot something weird I have aquired a Muzzleloading Target rifle that uses regular Match sights. I am mostly a pistol guy, but this was too odd to pass-up. I need some help about front sight apertures. I have only ever used the thin metal ones, but am I being stupid for not using the clear or adjustable types? My rear sight is a Redfield Palma that I got a good deal on, and is in very nice shape. I will probably get an Iris for it before too long. Shooting usually takes place at 50 and 100 yards. Front sight body is an 18mm Anschutz.

Thanks,

Dwight

The rifle is pretty cool, Laminated Thumbhole Stock, Canjar Single Set Trigger, Douglas barrel.

[H Rocketto]

Having used all of them I find each has its advantages.

I use an adjustable front sight aperture because it is easy to adjust for light changes. It is the way I go, but it is the most expensive. Get one that has the greatest range between small, 2.2, to large, 5.5.

The plastic ones are nice and clear-there is no 'cross bar' as in the emtal ones. However rain drops can splash up against them causing a sighting problem.

The metal ones are the cheapest and do the job very well. They are just a pain to change in a hurry and you have to store the apertures and have good eyes to read the tiny print that tells you the sizes. They would be my second choice.

Good Luck

Hap

[Jose Rossy]

I have recently changed from the metal with crossbar type (adjustable in my M70 HP rifle and fixed in my Anschutz 1411) to those that give you the floating ring effect (again, adjustable in the M70 and inserts in the 1411).

I much prefer the floating ring style. I love the uncluttered, unobstructed view. I've shot my 1411 so equipped in rain from under a covered firing line where the muzzle barely stuck out under the roof and saw no problems with water. There was some mist in the aperture, but it was so fine that I never could detect it while aiming. Since highpower is shot completely outdoors, I will just add some sunshades to the front and rear ends of the front sight to protect the aperture and the 1.3X magnifier in front of it.

[Juan Carlos]

The plastic ones ............ However rain drops can splash up against them causing a sighting problem.
Hap

No difference with metallic or adjustable front sight rings, in my opinion.

[JohnD]

Will there be a problem with smoke and soot getting on the plastic or adjustable apertures? That's not a problem with rimfire or centerfire rifles, but the muzzleloaders throw up quite a cloud. If you can get a clear aperture to fit the existing hood, try it out to make sure. Cheap test.

As for the differences among the three choices, I use all three. Sometimes the metal aperture just shows up better than clear plastic, depending on the light (intenstity and direction). The adjustable is nice for three position, since I can get a bigger setting for standing than for prone or kneeling with no fuss. I have gone through the changeout with metal apertures, only to find out that I put the very same one back into the sight. Old eyes and little numbers. Whatever you choose, it's a good idea to carry an alternate in your kit.

[TWP]

I agree with John,

I think the smoke and soot thrown out by a muzzle loader would cloud up a clear insert and in short order destroy an adjustable one.

I think the metal inserts would be the best choice for your application.

If you have trouble seeing the little numbers on the metal inserts I suggest color coding them with paint. and getting a small multi compartment plastic box so that each size has it's own place.

[K38]

I think TWP has it correct. I did not even think about the soot from black powder. I'm sure it would mess up the plastic or adjustable apertures. I will just order an assortment from Champions Choice. At $2.50 each it's not going to break the bank. I hope they have a little wallet or something to store them in. I will let you know how this beast shoots.

Thanks,

Dwight