Tang versus Scope

[padman]

Assuming hammer clearance will allow for them, what's better - a tang site or a scope?
I particularly like the look of the long barrel length scopes.
My intention is to be able to shoot middle to long range.
Thanks guys.
PM

[crow_feather]

depends on how old you are and how good your eyesight is.  I have a Malcolm 3x 17" 3/4" scope and I like it better than the longer scope because of the weight.  I believe that the longer scope is better for long range shooting though.  I also use a iron vernier sight but my eyes limit it's usefulness. 

C F

[Brithunter]

Hmmm I would think that the design of the scope is what matters with of course the quality of the lenses. There must be a reason why Bench rest shooters use high mag scopes. You don't see tang sights at the bench in serious comps. A scope if of suitable quality should give better accuracy.

[padman]

So I assume tang sights are earlier manifestations and scopes came along to replace them.
Scopes must be adjustable for different distances then?
-PM

[Brithunter]

There are many different types of scopes, some have the adjustment in the mounts and others internally. But they must be adjustable otherwise you could get them on Point of Aim. Some have adjustments for a particular bullet/cartridge combination and these would normally have distances marked on the dial.

[Rangr44]

As posted above - It depends upon the quality of your eyesight, and the conditions under which you're shooting - and your ability.

Sure iron sights, including tangers, are seen as precursors to modern scopes, but shooting telescopes have been around just as long - at least prior to the Civil War.

"Conditions" include some types of long-range competitions, which preclude the use of magnifying sights (scopes) - like some BPCR events - and lousy weather that might make scope use problematic.
 
There are no scopes on Olympic target rifles - just peep sights, extended to the rear as far as a tang sight rests.

[marlinman93]

 Regardless of whether you have good vision or not, a scoped gun will always shoot better than iron sights for all but the best shooters. Scopes are not the only answer to the question though. Mounts are critical if the scope it to be used on a old single shot rifle, especially for long range work.
 Most scope mounts wont allow the shooter enough adjustment to shoot past around 300 yds., and less with old straight walled cartridges. The calibers that throw 300-500 gr. bullets at something just a bit over pistol velocities need a lot of elevation in the rear mount! Those old Malcolm style scopes often used very specialized mounts to be able to shoot at 500-1000 yds.
 Not too many folks who can shoot accurately with iron sights as they can with a scope, when you're talking that kind of distance. I'm using a full length scope on my Remington Hepburn, and with the std, mounts it wont get me past 200 yds. I need to shim the rear mount, or change to one with more adjustment if I go farther.-Vall