Adjusting Flintlock Rifle Sights

Flintlock rifle sights are very different from these on a more modern weapon.

The sights on your flintlock rifle aren't like a modern rifle's sights. They are called iron sights. These sights are made to be set permanently and probably will not be right for anyone but you after they have been set. Most often, these sights have been dovetailed into the gun barrel. These dovetail joints are just channels that hold the sights tightly in place. Adjusting your flintlock rifle sights is a little time-consuming, but the time spent is at the range shooting, and the result--a rifle that shoots straight--is well worth the effort.

Things You'll Need

• Small hammer
• Punch or drift pin
• File

Instructions

1. Go to a safe and legal place to shoot such as a firing range.

2. Place your target 30 yards away. Fire three shots, then check to see where your group of shots hit. They should all be in the same general area.

3. Adjust your sights for windage. If your shots hit to the left of the intended spot, place your punch on the left side of the rear sight, and gently tap it to the right a little bit with the hammer. If your shots hit to the right, tap your rear sight to the left some.

4. Continue firing and analyzing your shot group. Adjust the rear sight until your shots are centered.

5. Adjust your sights for elevation. If your shots are striking the target too low, file some of the height off of your front sight. Go slowly and file evenly. Continue firing and filing until your shot group comes up to the level of the bull's-eye. If your shot group is already too high, replace either your front or back sight. Generally it's easier to change out the front sight. It will be higher when it's new, and you will be able to file it down to bring your shots up to the bull's-eye.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider making your shots hit a little high so that you can increase your range and still hit the bull's-eye. To do this, file off slightly more than you would need for making your shots hit the bull's-eye when firing at your 30-yard range. If your shots are hitting perfectly level with the bull's-eye at 30 yards, additional filing will raise the shot. This makes it possible for you to hit the bull's-eye from farther away, because the added height makes up for the effect of gravity on the bullet over distance.

References

• "The Complete Blackpowder Handbook: The Latest Guns and Gear"; Sam Fadala; 2006