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I’m picking up my first Low Wall 1885 in 22 Long today and in the time I’ve been waiting for it I’ve been trying to find a period correct sight.
I purchased the Old Gunsights book and have been trying to learn as much as possible.
Since it’s only 22 Long (and depending on bore may be relined to 22lr at most) I think a Winchester 38 adjustable vernier sight would probably be overkill though certainly work.
I was browsing GB and came across what I believe is a #38 sight. It’s the same sight that’s on the back cover of the Old Gunsights book. Seller claims that’s what it is also.
Being that it was the same price as the new Marbles sights (though they have windage adjustment) I figured I’d give it a go. It appears to be in good working condition and seller says it was from a Low Wall.
These are the only pics I have for now. I’ll update with more when it comes in.
Can anyone confirm the sight? According to thr Gunsights book this was in fact an option for the Low Walls, is that correct?
Anything else I should know?
thanks in advance.
Online
The sight is a repo sight.
Bob
WACA Life Member--- NRA Life Member---- Cody Firearms member since 1991 Researching the Winchester 1873's
Email: [email protected]
Thanks Bob!
What gives it away? (I can’t see **** from the photos!) Is it a decent repro? I only paid $125 – the same price a “New” Marbles tang sight would be…..
The guy I bought it from actually offered to let me cancel the order because he’s out of town and can’t ship until the 8th…..But if it’s a decent replica and works well I’d still keep it. I’m guessing an orignal vernier like this is $400+? This is going on what will be a shooter – nothing special or orignal to worry about. The 1885 is a 22 Long from the factory but has a replacement (post 1907) take down barrel on it.
Do you guys have an opinion on either of these tang sights offered by MVA? I’m trying to see what the diffence is between these. I understand the “SB” marked Lyman is very difficult (if not impossible) to find. So just looking for an alternative.
Its the course serrations on the eye cup, the crud elevation marks and the big screw head for the spring are telltales of a cheap repo. I lightened up a photo so you can see the detail better. $125 is a fair price for a repo a real one with good blue would be about $500. Bert would be the guy that would know what was on 85’s.
Bob
WACA Life Member--- NRA Life Member---- Cody Firearms member since 1991 Researching the Winchester 1873's
Email: [email protected]
I agree with Bob. I think just from looking at originals for several years, it just jumps out for many of us.
Great description and explanation, Bob.
Anthony
An original Mid-range Vernier tang sight for a Single Shot rifle that is in very good condition is going to cost considerably more than $500, most likely 2X that price.
For a low-wall, I would be inclined to install a Lyman No. 1 or a No. 2 tang sight. The Mid-range Vernier tang sights were very commonly installed on center fire Single Shot rifles, and were standard on the Special Single Shot and Schuetzen rifles. That stated, I do have one low-wall (in 22 Short) that was factory equipped with a Beach Combination front sight and a Mid-range Vernier tang sight.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
rustyjack said When were these sights in production? I found this set on a model 1890 WRF mfg. 1914. I wouldn’t think these made sense on a 1890, but judging by the finish left on the tang under the sight, I think they were original to the rifle.
Bob
WACA Life Member--- NRA Life Member---- Cody Firearms member since 1991 Researching the Winchester 1873's
Email: [email protected]
Two photos of an original Winchester mid-range vernier sight. Like most Winchester sights, they were not model specific. These were fitted to the various lever action rifles, the single shot, etc.
As others have mentioned, compare the fineness of the markings and overall workmanship.
I call myself a collector as it sounds better than hoarder
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