Marlin 1894 .44 mag question

Hankus

Hankus

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Hey folks,

I picked up an 1894. It looks great, and cycles reasonably well (hoping it will smooth out with time). I also got a williams rear peep sight for it--the trouble is, it shoots incredibly high, even on the lowest setting.

It seems to be around 18" high at 100 yards. I'm using UMC ammo, I think it is 180 grain and I've used some American Eagle 240 grain which was less crazy (i.e., not as high at 100 yards).

I'm thinking about switching to .44 special power reloads--but what can I do if this problem keeps up? I read on a different forum that the problem can be corrected by installing a taller front sight...is this a good move?

Thanks in advance.
-Hankus
 
Had that issue years ago, I tried the UMC 180's and the USA Brand 240's. The heavier round was more control able, the 180's also produced a considerable muzzle blast (read.. flame)

Great round & rifle combo.

I switched over to the Ruger Deerfield, basically a Mini14 on steroids, in 44 Mag. love that rifle!!
 
Thanks guys. It seems that Brownells does not sell the front firesights individually--only as a set.

Any recommendations on where to look?

Also--will I need a gunsmith to install a front firesight? I can handle some sanding with emery paper, but I'd be nervous about any advanced work...
 
Another choice is to go with heavier bullets like 325 gr. cast WFN GC which should bring you down to near spot on!! These are better choices for hunting big game as well, for less serious work those lighter bullets are okay but like some others have said, you'll have to change the front sight.
 
A front sight is an easy thing to push out and in. It slides in the dovetail.

Measure the existing one from top to bottom with a caliper. Sounds like you need one about a tenth of an inch taller. I have replaced a number with the plastic light gathering type. very nice in the bush.
 
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Another alternative to the Firesight might be the XS "white stripe" front sight. They do a nifty aperture rear sight as well.

I made XS-type front sights for my 1894 and 1895 (from "generic" front sights from Brownell's, their #011-001-065 or -100. Not currently avail. to us as the mfr. isn't registered with the *&$^%$#& State Dept.:mad:). I used a very thin strip of white Scotchlite™ for the vertical line.

XS sights are available up here from TSE in Calgary. You can drift the existing front sight out (to the left) with a brass punch and a small hammer.

:) Stuart
 
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