Revolvers with Blade sights - how do you know the POI without a rear sight?

[ciwsguy]

Wondering: On revolvers that do not have rear sights, how does the shooter line up on target using just a front blade sight? I saw some photos of a very old Colt Walker and noticed that the hammer had a V-notch that appeared that it could serve as the rear sight when in the cocked position. It looks like revolvers like the S&W Model 10 don't have the V-notch in the hammer, so I'd like for someone to comment on this. Anybody in-the-know about the Walker or the more modern revolver with no rear sight?

For those of you who shoot wheelguns with no rear sight, how do you shoot your piece? Would you rather have a rear sight revolver or stick with what you have?

[CraigC]

Yes, the Colt Walker and many other blackpowder percussion guns had a notch cut in the hammer for the rear sight. While somewhat crude, they are suprisingly effective. The other guns you're referring to, such as the S&W M&P model 10, has a groove cut in the top strap along its length with a square notch at the rear. They are typically quite usable. They are not without a rear sight.

[ciwsguy]

Thanks, CraigC. I assumed that since all I could see in photos of a M10 did not show a rear sight cut into the topstrap. All I see in photos are the front blade. I suppose the more accurate description would be "no ADJUSTABLE rear sight", right?

[CraigC]

Or more commonly "fixed" sights.

[94bluerat]

I shoot a 10-5, the rear "groove" and or fixed site is very clear when handleing the wepon. As with any gun the more you shoot it the better you know where it hits.

Good luck!

[Tamara]

And a very practical rear sight it is, too. Nothing to snag, and you can run the gun over with a tank without worry about knocking the sight out of kilter. :cool: