UK based, source for USMC front sight blade?

[Archer1971]

Just acquired a S-C 1903A3, and really struggling with the very fine front sight blade, when shooting in my club’s inside range. Just can’t pick it out, my eyes aren’t what they were!

I don’t have the same issue with my Lee Enfields or Swedish Mauser, which have wider blades. I have found mention of a wider 1903A3 blade, but cannot find a UK seller, or a US one that will ship to the UK. Any information on possible sources much welcomed!

[Daan Kemp]

Local machine shop or gunsmith make one?

[Archer1971]

Local machine shop or gunsmith make one?

Could be an option, will trst next time I’m at my gunsmith… thanks for replying.

[John Beard]

Try Bill Bentz. Perhaps he may ship to the UK. His email address is dcm450shtr@gmail.com.

Good Luck! And Happy New Year!

J.B.

[RCS]

I think you will have to fabricate a thicker front sight blade for the 1903A3 as the original USMC sight has the dovetail feature shown at the left in my photo

[oldfoneguy]

Although not an exact answer to your question, I add color to the milsurp front sights I have trouble seeing.
Nail polish, enamel model paint and spray paint are just some of the possibilities. I've used white which could be problematic at times, bright yellow works well, orange is OK unless you're using an orange target, gold works well also and safety vest green is good except I have some targets that color as well. No adding color doesn't make the blade wider but it does grab your eye faster than a blued or black front sight.

[mhb]

I think you will have to fabricate a thicker front sight blade for the 1903A3 as the original USMC sight has the dovetail feature shown at the left in my photoAttachment 134525

The blades for 1903 and 1903A3 front sights are completely interchangeable, and are pinned into the slot in the dovetailed base or the one-piece band, respectively - the slot is ca. .050" in width, and the lower part of the Marine blade is thinned to fit the slot. If making a blade, you may make the top of any convenient width, and some shooters find the Marine .100" too wide for fine accuracy.

mhb - MIke