Does Your Rifle See??? Aperture Sights / Iron Sights

[@rupertmcnaughtdavis7302]

Excellent,informative video!"Effortless aiming and shooting"and "pick up your rifle and go" sums up using aperture sights .Not to mention the lines of a rifle spoiled by a "monstrous scope".I am sure you have made quite a few converts! Many thanks.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Rupert - I'm sure I missed things but I tried : ) Your notes are so meaningful - I know that you know ...and that means a lot to me. We've all made shots that no one would believe. I'll share with you one that I'll never repeat. I was out in 30 below freezing weather and clear air; deep snow from a dump that came when it was warmer - then the temperature often crashes and the air can't support any humidity - as in zero humidity - it is all frozen on the ground. Someone got a deer. A gut pile resulted. Tons of crows. They take off - their flight is erratic and they are 100 yards away and 25 yards up. I'm a young, broke man with a .303. Someone says take a shot at a loner way out. No humans for a hundred miles around. I don't think, I don't aim - I swing up and the aperture frames the black darting dot - I fire. The crow falls....only in life - dreams would never be so unrealistic. : ) The best to you my friend.

[@rupertmcnaughtdavis7302]

Thank you.And what makes that shot even sweeter was that it was done with a "humble" 303.

[@cpborrelli]

In the Marine Corps my M16 had aperture sites and we fired them at quite long ranges. And you are right you get no mirage

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Charles.

[@rickbattle5706]

It is interesting how the basics are simply skipped over and over. Being well grounded is essential to accurate shooting. Excellent presentation. :-)

[@johnjuiceshipper4963]

Rick Battle like I commented above, in the (Dutch) military I was tought to shoot using just the Aimpoint, not through irons or apertures. While new technology is amazing, I think it’s always important to teach the basics to newcomers.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Rick!

[@JaysonTuntland]

"Depending on who is correcting me" - Spot on. :)

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Jayson : )

[@greggbell9837]

Excellent content. Been shooting my Sedgley Springfield sporter with a Lyman for decades. Apertures, once dialed in, are effortless and reliable on deer, antelope, hogs, or any other game you plan to harvest. Great video.

[@TylerSnyder305]

I love receiver mounted aperture sights, I just really don't do scopes. Williams makes pretty good sights for the price too.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Very true - if more people tried the apertures they would be surprised.

[@randyschaff8939]

As a young boy l joined up with army cadets because all my friends were doing it. One night they took us down in the basement at the armouries and got us started shooting lol. We were trained on the Lee Enfield .22 conversion. We sat and watched a film explaining how an aperture sight works breath control trigger squeeze all that good stuff then back upstairs to do drill and calisthenics with the same rifle. As a 10 yr old l was in heaven! Years later l received training on another big boy weapon Fabriqe National fnc1 chambered in 7.62 x51 and yup guess what? Aperture sights. You turned a dial and the elevation was marked on the sight. That was a powerful accurate highly effective rifle🇨🇦🤠

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Awesome Randy!

[@hleigh842]

Thank you.....an incredible value for 15 minutes of time and somehow comforting.

[@johnstewart8849]

I put Skinner peep sights on my .410 lever shotgun....tight groups with rifled slugs. Skinner guys really helpful in getting the fit right. I target shoot with peeps on my.22....five shots in one hole.

[@sbjagdnatur3407]

Recently i bought a Type B Mauser from 1908 in 9,3x62 completely untouched/never drilled or tapped with iron sights only. As an active hunter im beginning to practice shooting with it and will hopefully get good enough with it to do some game. Iron sights simply offer a real advantage especially when doing driven hunt in thick bushes whereas optical sights might get compromised by all kinds of dirt. Anyways i am thankful for the instructive video - theres always something new to learn. Greetings from Germany

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Type B in 9.3X62 - you have a gem - a true gem. I'll take iron sights 10 times out of ten in daylight for driven game - the magic of instinctive shooting happens with iron sights! I'm glad you see what I'm trying to do with my videos - glad you like. Deutschland uber alles - my Grandpa used to say this to me...so many times. The best to you.

[@sbjagdnatur3407]

Thank you Sir!

[@c5back9]

Old eyes here, enjoying this presentation and remembering when years ago, these eyes could focus sharply on the sights and the target simultaneously. Those were the days! To all the young folks with sharp vision reading this, listen to this gentleman and give iron sights a go. You won’t regret it! Oh, and one more thing... I’ve never heard of iron sights fogging up on anyone. Carry on!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Great comment - and thanks for the vote of confidence; the young shooters I've taken to the range learn to shoot almost instantly with iron sights. Have a Merry Christmas.

[@worddunlap]

I shoot with both eyes open so the field of view is not quite so important as it is to people that have to shut an eye. It was something I had to practice but once I got it down it greatly improved my accuracy and time it took to acquire targets.

[@pseudopetrus]

That is something that I need to work at. I was taught to keep my left eye closed, but I can shoot well enough with both open, and yet from time to time, I catch myself closing my left eye... just an old habit... I need rehab!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hahaha - I do the same thing - especially if it seems like a precision shot...something in my brain. All the best to you.

[@biggoat9]

"... depending upon who is correcting me." That might just be the funniest backhanded comment I have heard from you. Keep bringing on the excellent content!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hahaha - sometimes the humor slips out. Thanks for the cheer.

[@alwayssomething3135]

Just recently purchased a 57 Winchester 94 and it was mounted with an old Lyman 66. The old sights are in the original Lyman box stating a $7.99 price tag! I was debating on switching back and you have given me something to think about. Thank you for your videos, you are a gentleman

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Amazing purchase - not easy to find those sights at all. No matter what you've got a winner. Thanks for the kind words.

[@gordongrice9856]

Great video on a much misunderstood subject. It is amazing how many experienced shooters don't like iron sights, don't know how to adjust them & don't know about the 6 o'clock hold. A good way to learn how to use aperture sights is buy a compound bow and learn how to shoots it with the string peep and sight pins mounted on the bow. Thanks Mike

[@randyschaff8939]

I learned on iron sights which is the right way for young shooters to start. No 4 Mk1 has excellent aperture sights which l still like shooting with🇨🇦🤠

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I forgot how great those sights are until your note. The #4 is superb.

[@randyschaff8939]

My little 93 Spanish Mauser has a Williams peep sight on it. The vendor told me it was chambered for the 7.62 Nato round. Im looking at the stepped down barrel thinking (no way) l paid a ridiculously low price for it and walked out of there. Took it home checked it out. Yup this baby is in 7x57 Mauser! How could l get so lucky? What a little sweetie shoots great. Put the rifle up that frt. sight is already centered you don’t even notice the peep it is like a ghost ring take a bead on that deer so easy to hold it steady out to 200 yds. you can’t miss! Deer meat for supper🇨🇦🤠

[@randyschaff8939]

One more; Thirty some yrs ago l was in a pawn shop out here in Western Canada 🇨🇦 A sporterized p 14 on the rack. I asked to look at it. “RE” stamped on the frt. receiver ring and that great aperture sight nestled in between those steel sight protector “ears” FIFTY BUCKS! The propeietor wrapped it up in brown paper with the barrel sticking out walking down 11th ave got on the bus took it home. A measured distance of 262 yds with a laser rangefinder 8 inch steel CNR track plate .303 British handloads 150 grn bullet. CLANG ha ha that is a routine shot with that old girl She is plain looking but she shoots straight every time. Would not hesitate to take it deer hunting🇨🇦🤠Forgot to add RE stands for Remington Enfield. The British were short of rifles beginning of ww1 and Remington was making rifles foe them so who knows where this one has been and qhat it’s done ✅ if only she could talk! They don’t make them like that anymore😂🇬🇧🇨🇦

[@johnny-james]

What?? Tang sights?..? I have one identical and I never knew what exactly that was!! I was starting to think it was some kind of folding sling lug...wow. I'm about to go get it out .. Itmust have come with a bag of old Mauser parts I've obtained awhile back.. Neat! Great video!

[@GoldCountryTrapping]

I started with an old savage single shot 22lr with peep sights for hunting jack rabbits. Still my favorite and most instinctive way to shoot. Great vid.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Gold - instinctive shooting is really something. Not everyone knows what the words mean.

[@GoldCountryTrapping]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns Maybe I dont either....I just mean that with aperture sights often when hunting the gun comes up, I shoot, hit the target and I have not really consciously aimed the gun.

[@ashmerch2558]

USOG.... I know it's late... But thank you for the educational lesson on sights, its a dying art.... But I just find it so intriguing. Thank you again so so much

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you Ash! Never late - always good.

[@Me2Lancer]

Enjoyed your presentation. While growing up I learned the conventional sight picture you showed and used with iron sights and used it for all types of firearms. While in the military we trained with the M1 Garand, so I was introduced to apertures sights at that time. You mentioned buckhorn sights and I can tell you they are a favorite of mine for conventional iron sights. I have given thought to adding a tang sight on my lever guns.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Rich - I've learned to use the buckhorn almost like an aperture - quite interesting and accurate.

[@Me2Lancer]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns That makes sense to me, Mike. The shape of the buckhorn helps guide my eye to the front sight.

[@currituck]

I really like good open sights, but really love peep sights!

[@johnhutcheson8869]

Always enjoy listening to you ! I am 73 and after a long morning on the farm with stock and manual labor (literally Sunday on the farm), cooking bacon/eggs, I sat back in the recliner, put my feet up and selected this great video on aperture sights. Somewhere along the way..... I drifted off and woke up and the subject was the same ....but it wasn't you! ! You had been replaced by another : kzbin.info/www/bejne/g3SYanZ-lMtsjtE so now I am watching your video for a second time !!

[@jameskent4453]

I recently started watching your video's and enjoy them very much, although you make me want to buy more guns. I was watching the aperture video which I found interesting, but I seen in your book where to place your finger on the trigger and I recently had a conversation with a fellow shooter that on my smaller pistols I was pulling them down and left, but with a full size 1911 I was right on, and he said it might be where I was placing my finger on the trigger, so that goes with that picture that was in your book. Thank you, and keep up the good work.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you James. I'll keep going!

[@TB-zh9pe]

That's a great book, THE NEW HUNTER'S ENCYCLOPEDIA, published by Stackpole Books, Harrisburg, PA. My uncle worked there, and gave me a copy when I was in 8th or 9th grade in 1968 or 1969. Check out the Lenard Brownell stocked Mauser (Plate II) on page 517, and the photograph of the iconic gunsmiths and custom rifles (one is a Springfield) on page 520. I really like the Williams receiver sights on my Marlin 1895 and Ruger 10/22 for hunting in the woods.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Glad you have a copy Tim - find myself flipping through often. I'll check the pages out.

[@redwinger4281]

It's amazing but I agree with everything you said in this great video Mike!!!!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you so much and have a Happy New Year!

[@donaldlamendola8294]

Excellent!!! Thank you for sharing this great video, and all of your knowledge.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

You're most welcome Donald - wish I knew more.

[@chrischiampo7647]

Great Video 👍🏼 My Friend Very Good Info I like the Lyman Peep Sights and Buckhorn Sights 😊

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Chris - generations of shooters accomplished almost everything with irons : )

[@russellmiller212]

Excellent illustrations from the text. Very accurate representations of bullet strike vs. sight picture. Group sizes with NM iron sites at 600 yards, (800, 900 & 1,000 yards Palma) and within the iron phase of the Wimbledon will often produce groups/scores equivalent or better than those which result from optics. This is even true (unless NRA target sizes have changed within the last 2 decades) with a 600 yard 36 inch bull. The same size target, which resembles a pinhead at 1,000 yards is used, but the scoring rings are spread wider, maintaining a 1 m.o.a. X - ring which is 10 inches across. Long ago, while competing in NRA and interservice shooting events, there were a few occasions when 1,000 yard events were completed for my own orientation. The highest score at 1,000 yards was achieved with an M70 40X profile rifle chambered in .308 and fitted with NM peep sites. I never really gave the actual long range match rifle the final tuning required for competition at the time, and was loaned a 'cross the course gun' from a very fine elderly gentleman. It should be noted push-pull LC match ammunition was modified with the 180 grain Matchking and no wind conditions during all long distance events. The lighting conditions were extremely favorable to the iron sites, which could also be modified with inserts for low or bright light. In any event, the critical advantage of the magnum cartridge became apparent when advancing to 1,000 yards during the Palma match. At that point, only 9 points were dropped. The only authorized cartridge for the Palma event is 308 / 7.62×51mm. Until the mid - '90's, competitors who were selected to the various U.S. international Palma teams were required to use the military 147 grain military bullet. Sierra then produced the universal 155 grain 'Palma' which then became authorized for use, and a maximum bullet weight of 156 grains was now permitted. This change in regulations essentially eliminated the handicap against U.S. shooters, who were still competitive (winning frequently) even with the 'machine gun bullet' rule. Otherwise, I couldn't determine any recognizable advantage with the use of telescopic sites during satisfactory - excellent light conditions. In fact, mirage can be an issue even with very expensive optics at distance.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you once again - you know a lot more than I do. I'm happy hitting a Coke can. : )

[@johnjuiceshipper4963]

During (Dutch) OCS, I was trained to shoot our C8A1NLD (Colt-Diemaco made M4A1, basically) with just the Aimpoint that it was issued with. Didn’t even come with a rear sight. So when I went shooting with the academy’s shooting club, I finally got to shoot with a iron-sighted FAL, M1 Garand and the older C7 (basically a M16A2). I really didn’t expect it to be so easy. Also, shooting the M1 Garand was a wonderful experienced. Really didn’t expect it to be such a gentle shooter. The FAL kicked meaner!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I hear you! I fired the FAL a few times - not sure why it bit me so hard - but it did. Maybe that swoop in the buttstock or the heads up posture. Anyway - glad my teeth are still okay. : )

[@paulsimmons5726]

Great video, informative as always. You know, nowadays most rifles are drilled and tapped for a scope and many don't even have option of using irons. Sadly, this forces many beginners straight to glass without getting the basics of using iron sights. Then again, my eyes aren't what they used to be 40 years ago so maybe scopes do have their positive points. BTW, that Springfield you showed was a true beauty, that's the type rifle that would make me head to the range! Indeed, a truly classic firearm.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks for noticing the Springfield. I should have said something about eyesight and such...sorry I missed that important point. I hope they go back to factory rifles with iron sights - all of them. : ) Have a great weekend.

[@normanmallory2055]

Very good to see that information about iron sights.. I grew up with a Lyman model 48 sight on the one rifle and Williams on a different rifle.. I shoot very well with aperture sights better groups, tighter groups.. Lyman came out with a Twilight aperture that had a very well polishes brass ring installed in the aperture, low light, first light hunting oh yes it was faster.. It was some years before I had a tang mounted aperture sight rifle which was closer to my eye so it produced a larger field of view, yes I liked it a lot not that I was going to hunt buffalo , I got a lot of comments about that sight.. Yes neat stuff. Funny you pick them up as I do the same thing.. Hard to beat and makes a darn good sighting package.. You did good.. I'm a person who just doesn't want a scope on every rifle , don't need it..

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Norman - for sure the iron sights are better than a lot of people know - and the aperture sights are the best. All of the sighting devises and rails and scopes and such are interesting. I just pickup my rifle and go hunting - this year with my 1895; no mistakes.

[@normanmallory2055]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns Yes very true . It was the way i was taught when i was 17 years old and the difference between Buckhorn and aperture sights .. Several fellows who hunted with my father leaned towards the peep sights as they called them.. None of us had any trouble filling our deer tags ..I was in my early 20's and the season was about to get underway, now three fellows had rifle scopes mounted .. Problems were about to start as two out of the three failed that weekend .. Two fogged up , the third one just would not hold zero so returning to camp and remove the scopes and Aperture sights reinstalled a few shots followed and the rifle was printing right on the spot .. I learned a lot about sights .. Seems my father had sent in two different scopes maybe 4-5 times within two seasons .. Nope not a good idea so i did not purchase a scope for a long time after that ..But still i really enjoy to this day my Lyman model 48 sight ..

[@bullrambler]

Good information and thanks for sharing... I`ve been looking for an aperture sight for a Savage 99 EG with the Pre Tang safety. I thought Williams might have the right sight but instead they suggested that I use one of their sights - but this entails drilling an extra hole in the chassis but I can`t bring myself to do it. I`m in Canada so we don`t see these too often. So if you ever happen to see one I would pay costs for the sight and your time.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi - I wouldn't drill either : ) Please check on Canadian Gun Nutz - there are all kinds of sights on there. www.canadiangunnutz.com/

[@davidstuck2866]

excellent presentation. the only thing that i can think of that you missed out on is extreme target shooting "globe front sights with the interchangeable blades. they are not everyday items, but can still be found. i have never shot thru a set, but it would be exciting to try.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Good point David. Next time : )

[@dobypilgrim6160]

I can attest to the quality of the little Skinner sights. I cut my groups by more than half on a Mod 1894 Winchester with one. It actually just replaced the buckhorn and was so simple to install and use. Superb design. As I recall, it was about a hundred bucks.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

You are right. So well made - so simple - I wish all products were this good. Skinner sights : A+

[@littlewoody5539]

Good video you should do a video on some of your hunting trips . Your a good story teller .

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Will do - thank you!

[@borisbuliak3626]

Big believer in iron sights. On a lighter note I liked how you took your younger audience to school with a book. With black and white pictures, and what was that? A revolver?

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Ha! You see everything - you bet - that was a revolver. : )

[@aaronwilcox6417]

USOG---If you havent yet take a look at the Gunwerks EVO muzzloader sight. They have a drum with MOA adjustment for actual precision. I think these would be stellar on a centerfire rifle. They look amazing to me in prospective application. Im an iron person.

[@asimseth1927]

Very informative video. I use a Zigana sports 9MM pistol at the 25 metre range. It has non adjustable fixed sites. I have always kept aim at 12 o clock between the score circle of 4 & 6 so as to compensate for bullet drop. Based upon mikes advice ill try shoot as advised in this video

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Asim - I'll have to find a Zigana - I didn't know they exist. Hope things are going well for you!

[@MrCarGuy]

I prefer iron sights as well. Definitely ways to work around lower light conditions.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hard to believe so many supportive messages for me - such as yours. I find irons have served me so many times, so well...I like hunting in daylight...and when the shadow grow I have a scope to put on - but mostly I there is a deer in the truck by then.

[@johnkendall3616]

My .36 cal muzzle loader has a full buckhorn rear sight . I use it almost like a peep. Even with my old eyes a squirrel out to about 30 yards is in danger. I'm afraid my days using iron sights on my .50 cal flint lock for dear are over. I'm in process of mounting a peep. Scopes are not allowed to be used in flint lock season in PA but a peep should be just as good.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

That 36 must be sweet - and your eyes must be mostly good : )

[@Dake21]

I love iron sights. It's a shame most modern rifle do not come with irons on them because they make the rifle lighter, easier to handle and they are accurate enough for practical purposes.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks David - should be an industry standard. A rifle should be usable from the box. As it is...the rifle is just the start....then comes bases and rings and what not.

[@johnstewart8849]

Back in the ‘50’s, Abercrombie and Fitch was a gun shop and safari outfitter on Madison Avenue. As kid, it was my “ chocolate factory.” Hundreds of beautiful rifles and shotguns. Back then, scopes were a rarity. It was considered un-manly to stay far back and shoot scoped. As you say, today 80% of rifles come with scope rails, but no iron sights. EVERYBODY shoots scoped, even at 25 yards! A scope at that distance I consider to be a “ladies’aid.” I shoot peep sights at 25 yards ( range limited by safety concerns), average 5-shot group is 0.6 inches. CCi Quiet ammo. I figure, if I can get under 2MOA, PEEPS, with a good rifle, in good caliber, mounted by a great optic, I can hit a 20” silhouette at 1000 yards. The basics are the same, but you don’t have to be a land baron, with $5000 invested in tubes that eat dollars every trigger-pull. One pundit said, shooting 6.5 Creedmoor , your barrel will last only 1500 rounds. Of course, iron sights should be adjustable for elevation and windage, or find your own Kentucky windage “hold.”

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks John - I didn't know the Creedmoor is so hard on barrels. I guess those long bullets / bore friction and pressure takes a toll on steel.

[@MrPh30]

Get a Sauer 200 STR with the adjustable focus diopter, one shoot so good during match and range time with it .

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Amazing rifle!

[@JamesTorson]

I see the bubbagun on the table as well... how is it coming along? I appreciate the value of iron sights, and I vastly prefer them to a scope for just about all the shooting I get to do (but I do only get to shoot at paper and steel). One particular thing I find is that having something to cover my non-dominant eye helps, because I can obtain a better sight picture without straining my face. Doing this has decreased my group size immensely, and allows me to focus on marksmanship principles instead of trying to squint.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi James - Good spotting - I'll update on the Bubba : ) Also - you know much more than I do - I've seen target shooters for years with headpieces that include blinders and a rubber cover for one eye. I'm a forest hunter. I'm a hunter in rocks, high in the alpine and I'm happy if I fail. I try to stalk close and in the open light of day and if the game wins - there is always another day. Sometimes I travel to the middle of nowhere and have all kinds of opportunity - and return - with nothing; which to me...can be everything. Mostly though, I'm like you. The paper never bleeds.

[@danielcunha4377]

I love aperture sights

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Me too Daniel - so fine - and fewer and fewer people know.

[@jeffleblanc8850]

Good video as usual

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Jeff

[@brianlee6849]

I agree with you I prefer iron sights. I prefer aperture sights. Mostly because of Target acquisition is much faster for me. Target acquisition with a scope has always been awkward for me. Something I've always wanted to try is XS that has the front sight Crosshair with a fine Crosshair? Have you ever tried these? Thank you as always great information.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Brian, I've tried various sights with front sight crosshairs - the only type that worked for me was the heavy crosshair - but much of the target was covered. The fine versions disappeared except in ideal conditions.

[@brianlee6849]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns Ok thanks that is good to know. What is your preference for front sight with a aperture rear sight?

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Brian - a Marbles front sight - serrated at the front, gold bead : Perfect. I shoot these and mostly don't think about aiming - they just hit.

[@brianlee6849]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns Great advice I would definitely have to try that. I've used front sights with the gold bead before and I've always liked it

[@minerblue9641]

Great video.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Martin

[@ambiguoussoul1246]

I really liked the tutorial. I find myself picking and choosing which rifles are suited for iron sights and which rifles deserve steel weaver k series scopes. I enjoy both. What is the title of that book?

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

The New Hunter's Encyclopedia I'm glad the video was okay and thanks for writing.

[@edwardfinn4141]

One more thing though re peep sights. Personally I could never find the exact Center of the peep Circle. Where is the Center exactly? My theory is that in traditional military target ranges , with the big concentric circles on the target, these circles help the shooters eye Get centered in the peep circle... and that’s part of the reason peep sights shoot so well on the range... A shooter does not have those self centering concentric circles in the field, and thus can not shoot as well when he doesn’t have those concentric circle targets . Just my opinion...

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Edward - Good thoughts. The science of it is that the shooter does not have to think about centering the front sight at all - this is accomplished by the eye and brain without thought. One looks through the aperture (rear) sight and places the front sight bead or blade on the target. The shot will be centered. Aperture sights are so naturally "accurate" that many shooters will hit more with them than with scopes - magnification often exaggerates breathing, movement and the shooter may tend to get the cross hair on the target and pull the trigger in a hurry - hoping the crosshair doesn't move around - which it always seems to do without a rest. Hope this makes sense. Thanks for the note.

[@youngn9na92]

Would you happen to own any rifles with a Rigby sight? I would really like to see how those are built. Thanks!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hello - I don't have one at the moment. Are you thinking of the sight that attaches to the back of the bolt - if so, I've owned them and they are dovetailed in, and have a knurled collar for elevation. The aperture itself is on the top of a post that fits in the collar and has "teeth" machined into the post - which is how the collar moves the post up and down. I suppose you could tap the sight left or right in the dovetail for windage. I foolishly sold my Rigby's - hope I find another - one of these days.

[@youngn9na92]

@@UnitedStatesOfGunsYes, that describes them to a T! I have found newer production sights available online but I wanted to see a demonstration before spending the $300+ for one. I wonder if a base could be dovetailed/machined into a mauser cocking piece and attach a skinner sight. Or build one. Hopefully you find one again in your travels. I would love to see one in action!

[@tiortedrootsky]

Can somebody point me out to a video on what happens with aperture sights in dimmer light? What sizes of peeps are still usable in any kind of clowdy weather? What sizes are practical for military use? How outer diameter of the rear sight affect the sight picture? What happens when rear sight partly disappears on dark background? That kind of thing. I would watch 2 hours worth of that or more.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Good idea - I'll make a video - maybe not 2 hours though. In short : any "ghost ring" .096 or so is good until the light really fails. Field of view is same as regular vision; not limited by the sight. The rear ring on these often disappears - the eye sees through it and at best the sight itself appears as a "ghost" ring. I have no difference shooting on a dark or light background - maybe I'll do some more scientific testing. Dimmer light didn't effect my aim; same for bright sun. I use a "hunting" aperture so probably around the above .096 - maybe a little bigger. Hope this helps. The only weakness of all irons is when the light really fails - then a scope is the only way to go that I know of.

[@tiortedrootsky]

​@@UnitedStatesOfGuns thank you! Would be so great to see more in depth stuff, cant wait! A few more suggestions. Maybe you could touch on difference with u-notch? How much more daytime does u-notch give until the sight is unusable, comparing it with differently balanced apertures (inner and outer size, distances). Also the distance between eye and aperture, eye and front sight. Outer diameter of the sight seem to need to be fitting for those distances. What is proper balance between hardly visible ghost ring and small peep in giant wall of a sight? The real life usability for me is the most interesting, hunting, home defence, military application. It seems that the smallest apertures give some sort of stabilizing effect. Sideways movement of shooters head doesnt change what he sees in the peep. Front sight doesnt move from the target. The larger the aperture, the smaller this effect. Maybe a touch on that.

[@dasboot9471]

I agree, if you can see well and know what you're doing you can shoot iron sights (NM front and rear peep) better than people with optics that are less skilled/stable. My buddy and I destroy average shooters with our iron sight M1As all the way out to 600 yards. At that point it starts to get hard to see the targets, the only reason we can't shoot farther at that particular range.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Brian - that's my limitation with irons - the target gets too small. I stick with 6 o'clock hold way out - but eventually the distance wins. So I set up bigger targets : )

[@dasboot9471]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns Ha! Good call!

[@shootingenthusiast1464]

I want to know if we can use aperture sight on air rifles like diana magnum 350 Having good recoil Will it hold zero and what type of aperture sight it will need

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hello - Yes the aperture sight will have no problem. I've done that myself. I can't remember if the Diana has a dovetail / rail - if so - you need to find an aperture sight that fits that dovetail. I always put some cyanoacrylic glue on the clamps so nothing shifts. Hope this helps.

[@shootingenthusiast1464]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns yeah I will try and get back to you with results Thank you 🙏

[@stevedouglas5443]

I've found that peep sights work very well with old eyes. As you said, you look through them.

[@commonconservative7551]

is this what left eye dominant shooters settle on?......or astigmatism

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I may not be understanding your question - sorry in advance - but these aperture or peep sights are for anyone who wants faster and more accurate iron sights; they may be easier for people with eye issues as well.

[@inaz1963]

I have a question on a different topic. I recently acquired a Remington 721 that has been modified at some point in it's history with a new barrel and converted to 6.5x55 caliber. While I purchased this gun solely because I found it interesting, do you think that any modified guns will ever have collector value?

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

The news is not the best - as great as the modified gun may be - it is an instrument of individual tastes; the price will always be in relation to the utility of the gun - not the collector value. I have many of these.

[@inaz1963]

I have to admit that I have rarely 'invested' in firearms. I purchase only what I like or find interesting. Of course, there have been occasions that my interests and monetary value have merged, but it infrequent. Also, by that point I have usually given it to a friend who liked it more than I did.

[@nicolaspuelma2562]

Hi good evening, I have a question: do you know what is the best sights ratio in a mauser 98 of 23 inch barrel in 270win? thabks!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Nicolas - I don't know ratio but 18" from front sight bead to rear sight blade seems best.

[@nicolaspuelma2562]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns thanks a lot!

[@borisbuliak3626]

Aperture sights were responsible for falling hundreds of Russians by a single Finnish sniper using different firearms, never used a scope by his own account. Ironically the Finns made use of Russian firearms and not only made them better than the Russians but came up with great indigenous designs of their own. Anyways don't expect me to remember his name Finnish is one of the thoughest languages out there only Sako is easy.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Maybe I heard some of what you wrote before; but write more - the more the better.

[@borisbuliak3626]

USOG one of my gramps cousin was a veteran if Stalingrad other than get to eat and drink you couldn't get a word out if the war out of him. He had some medals on his chest wore on veterans and victory day. That was almost 50 yrs ago, that generation is alomst gone

[@randyschaff8939]

Good for you leaving that peep sight on there🇨🇦🤠

[@randyschaff8939]

My little 93 Spanish Mauser is set up with Williams peep sights and big bonus 7x57 Mauser. It is a little sweetikins to shoot. Thanks for the reply🇨🇦🤠

[@edwardfinn4141]

Good news regarding peep sights, that I thought you might like to know. ‘ The Canadian Rangers’ a govt sponsored militia that operates in Northern Canada and the Arctic just replaced all their older 303 British Lee Enfield’s that all had peep sights with new rifles that all have peep sights. A “Committee” , including government employees, military personnel and Rangers chose the Tikka Compact Tactical rifle/ Its also sold as the “Tikka Arctic” and retails for about $2500 US dollars They ordered the guns with modifications made at the factory. Good news , the rifle has ‘peep sights’ . The rear sight , a peep sight , is a unique design, it’s a with a little rotating globe that has 4 apertures for 200- 600 yds. Other modifications include , special laminated stock, shorter ‘pull length’ , 20 inch barrel, 10 shot magazine, 308 only. It’s a very nice gun , with peep sights including a blade front sight. Yes, the gun can take a riflescope, but members of ‘The Canadian Rangers’ must to re qualify every year with the peep sights.... Those Rangers love their peep sights, and certainly the peep sights are more rugged in extreme conditions then a scope.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Edward! Great comments. I like the Tikka Arctic - shot a couple of them. They're robust and the barrel is beefy; the rifle is not a lightweight as you know. The sights are intuitive and reminded me of the H&K "aperture barrel" rear sight - although the Tikka is quite different. If some army comes "over the top" at least the Rangers have something a little newer to work with. All the best to you.

[@mikemoore9757]

Aperture sights will never give you a parallax problem as a scope sometimes will. I read an article years ago about triangular aperture sights. I don't know if you read it , but it suggested that the human eye was more suited for superimposing a triangle aperture and centering it on a target than it was with a circle, or some such witchcraft. What is your opinion on that, or have you ever heard of it? Buy the way, good video. I love iron sights, and aperture sights. It's only my opinion, but I will never own a hand gun with a scope. Kinda like putting a gorilla suit on a beautiful woman!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Mike - hahahaha....the gorilla suit! I have to read about the triangle - very interesting and thanks for telling me. I just love the simplicity of the irons - and a rifle can be a rifle - so clean.

[@DropDStandard11]

Using iron sights is fun to me.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Tom - best description I've heard in years.

[@DropDStandard11]

USOG Im a man of many words and fast replies if you couldnt tell ;)

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I read somewhere : "Beware the man with one gun and beware the man of few words even more." : )

[@DropDStandard11]

USOG Ive heard, "Beware the man with one gun, because he probably knows how to use it."

[@goose5826]

I about won't buy a rifle if it doesn't have iron sights, especially on rimfires a rimfire without irons is useless in my opinion. Unless you're buying a heavy barrel, great video.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

So many times irons save the day and make a rifle complete. Thanks for writing and I'm glad you like the video.

[@ThePerfectRed]

BTW in German, a six o`clock hold is called "Spiegel aufsitzend". Just incase any one asked.."

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Spiegel aufsitzend! Fantastic! I've always loved the sound of German words. I'm sure if I use these words at the range everyone will jump up for their benches and stand at attention, saluting me as I pass. Just teasing...thank you my friend...as you know...I have the blood.

[@ThePerfectRed]

My pleasure, I might as well add that a center hold is called "fleck" or "Fleckschuss". I found a good image of both here: www.ssg-harburg.de/index.php/allemeine-tipps

[@antidulvian666]

You videos have become an oasis. In a region where the disease has been treated as a hoax and a political ploy, those of us forced to work face-to-face with the public who disregards safety, we may be on borrowed time. I watch your videos and briefly escape to a world not haunted by the spectre of fear for my safety. I truly hope that you find yourself well. Cheers.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you so much. Your words mean a lot to me. All the best to you and thank you for being a "giver" as they say.

[@pederbonde757]

I have been a bit annoyed that i have to speciall order my rifle to come with iron sights. Thinking thats like selling a new car without wheels.. you cant use it without buying something else. I see why they do it.. most people never use them anyway. But it enjoy shooting with iron sights.. also one of the best hunter i seen rarely used a scope. I guess hunters always want to have nice stuff.. now its expensive earmuffs and scoopes. before it was a nice side by side shootgun.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Peder - some years ago I was invited to hunt wild boar. I was given a Sauer 202 - a Swarovski scope - at low power. I made the shots but wished I had an aperture sight. The shots were so fast and running targets - ideal conditions for the aperture. Even with the low power I sometimes could not pickup the game quick enough. Oh well - enough success but I was surprised no one heard or thought of aperture sights. Aimpoints are nice but not everything. Thanks for writing.

[@pederbonde757]

Thank you for answering. Yes i feel the same way, if you have your scope zoomed in its quite hard to find the target fast. also i think its hard to follow it. But i been away from hunting and shooting for so long i probably shouldnt fire at a healthy animal that moves anyway. When i was a kid and went hunting with my father we almost exclusivly went on driven hunts. If no dogs where available they sent us kids in to the forest to push the animals out. So when i recently took up hunting again i really didnt understand the facination for high powered scopes. why do you need them, doesnt the animals usually come at you quite fast at close range? but now i learnt that many people hunt by stalking or waiting for the animal and for that high powered scopes are great i guess.

[@rupertmcnaughtdavis7302]

But well done for going to take the trouble for ordering the iron sights specially,you`ll never regret it,Peder!

[@Canada-gs3jc]

Are you a fan of the Henry big boy rifles?

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I tried a few at the range - seem to be okay - they went bang when I pulled the trigger and operated very smoothly. Are the receivers steel or aluminum. One fellow said they are steel - but my magnet didn't think so - not that it matters so much. Altogether I think they are fine. The newer Long Ranger should be interesting.

[@Canada-gs3jc]

The receivers are hardened brass. I very much enjoy them.

[@youcanthandlethetruth6976]

What's the name of that book? EDIT: Nevermind, I figured it out. If anyone is interested, it's called "The New Hunter's Encyclopedia".

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Robert - I forgot ...unbelievable.

[@justinbailey1756]

optics are for range heroes.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I find iron sights are so natural and useful to use - everything else adds more complexity - although there are advantages - I have no doubt.

[@theduke1833]

Hey about the Johann springer is there a email address I can email you

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hello - yes - [e-mail]

[@brandonrenner9597]

If it's under 50 yards I prefer iron sights

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Same here Brandon - I use scopes mostly for poor lighting conditions and long distances.

[@Romin.777]

Learn to shoot with iron sights, you'll have a breeze with a scope. :)

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Wise words.

[@Romin.777]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns Thanks. I hear that very little. :))

[@raulmorales9967]

I don’t buy rifles that don’t have iron sights.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Good idea