Author Topic: Fiber Optic sights on a smooth bore  (Read 1132 times)

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Offline Matt3357

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Fiber Optic sights on a smooth bore
« on: March 15, 2011, 04:09:30 PM »
I just purchased a 20 gauge barrel from a member here and would like to turn it into a short range slug gun.  The problem is I want to put a set of fiber optic sights on it.  I have looked at the FAQ's and know that most of you guys that have added sights to smooth bores have glued them on or drilled and tapped your barrels.  No big deal, I'm resourceful.  The question is, what set of sights work for a 20 gauge barrel.  I am really interested in the williams firesights but am not sure which to buy.  Anyone done this with success?

Matt
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Offline PHATINJUN

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Re: Fiber Optic sights on a smooth bore
« Reply #1 on: March 17, 2011, 04:30:52 PM »
I would just get a hold of the factory and tell them you want a set of fiber optic sites that went on the Muzzleloaders. That info may be in the FAQ"s. Kurt
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Offline Spanky

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Re: Fiber Optic sights on a smooth bore
« Reply #2 on: March 18, 2011, 06:39:54 AM »
You could get a set of sights from the 500 S&W barrels too. Alot of guys take 'em off the 500's and put a scope on. Someone here on the site probably has a set that you could get. ;)



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Offline quickdtoo

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Re: Fiber Optic sights on a smooth bore
« Reply #3 on: March 18, 2011, 08:57:41 AM »
500 S&W Handi sights are plastic.  :(

You'd be better off with a Williams Shotgun Shorty ramp and Firesight inssert, see the FAQs Peep and Firesights link, Midway sells the ramps and inserts, I think the 45-70 uses the same ramp as a 20ga smoothie.

Tim
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Offline Matt3357

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Re: Fiber Optic sights on a smooth bore
« Reply #4 on: March 18, 2011, 06:35:53 PM »
Tim,

I looked in the FAQ's and while there was some information, there was nothing specific to what will actually work on a 20 gauge, which is what I was asking for.  I think my best bet would be to call Williams when I get the barrel with the dimensions and hope they can help.  I'll double check the FAQ's but when I checked the other day, Midway was all out of the ramps.

Matt
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Matt

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Offline Matt3357

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Re: Fiber Optic sights on a smooth bore
« Reply #5 on: March 18, 2011, 06:54:23 PM »
Ok I remember what my issue was with the FAQ's on this topic.  The link to the only sight ramp was for a 12 gauge.  It did give the diameter of the barrel, but since I don't have it quite yet, I am not sure what it is.  When I get ready to purchase, I will most likely get all of my dimensions, determine my overall required sight height from one of the guides out there and call Williams to get the part numbers needed for this gig.  Anyone see any issue with low temp silver soldering these bad boys on?

Matt
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Matt

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Offline quickdtoo

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Re: Fiber Optic sights on a smooth bore
« Reply #6 on: March 18, 2011, 08:24:52 PM »
Low temp(~450º) 94-6 silver solder is available on ebay, comes in ribbon form that would make it real easy to mount a sight, see the info on soldering shims in the barrel fitting info in the FAQs.

Tim
"Always do right, this will gratify some and astonish the rest" -  Mark Twain

Offline Matt3357

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Re: Fiber Optic sights on a smooth bore
« Reply #7 on: March 18, 2011, 09:12:13 PM »
That's the exact stuff I have actually.  I bought if for a different project, but should work perfect for this one.  Thanks Tim.

Matt
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Offline Thebear_78

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Re: Fiber Optic sights on a smooth bore
« Reply #8 on: March 19, 2011, 12:28:14 AM »
For a close range slug gun I think you should check out the TFO bead by Truglo.  I just put one on a 18.5" 870 barrel and have been very pleased with how it shoots.  25 yard groups of 3-4" with slugs.  TFO stands for Tritium Fiber Optic. Its incredably visible in any light condition and pretty easy to install, just D/T two 6-48 holes in the barrel.



Offline Matt3357

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Re: Fiber Optic sights on a smooth bore
« Reply #9 on: March 20, 2011, 04:48:15 PM »
Thanks for the top bear but I am really looking for a set of sights for it rather than just a front bead.  That is one good looking stock set on your 870 though.

Matt
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Matt

"People never lie so much as after a hunt, during a war or before an election."
-Otto von Bismarck