Henry Rifle Forums

OK boys, dial me in here.

I was at my range here in AZ putting some rounds down range with my Henry side gate 45-70 (standard barrel, not octogon) shooting MB 405 grain Buffalo rounds.

After about 10 rounds, I wanted to play a little. I saw a rock outcrop on a hillside and told my son to spot me. I walked the 45-70 to my point of impact at the base of the outcrop after 5 rounds. My point of aim was about three feet higher at the top of the outcrop.

I put my range finder on the point of impact and it was 258 yards. So I thought I would like to place a ladder sight on my Henry. And yes, the 45-70 has the trajectory of a a rainbow to quote Tom Horn!

The only sight I can find is the Skinner ladder sight. I emailed Henry who also recommended the Skinner, and said it would fit via the dove tail. But According to Skinner, I also had to drill and tap two holes int he barrel.

SO, question is has anyone installed the Skinner, if so how (via dovetail only, or drill and tap) or do you know of another ladder sight you would recommend.

Let the knowledge flow ! ! !

If you are going to have to drill and tap why not get a tang site? The good ones are not cheap but if you want windage and elevation adjustment then you will have to bite the bullet and pay. I think that the Buffalo Arms site has some.

I'd be very reluctant (read that as being scared ) to drill into a barrel of any rifle with high chamber pressures .... so, my vote would be a gunsmith install of a tang site

The ladder sight on my 1860 is cool and fun to play with but....I don’t know how accurate the gradations are. Seems to be a bit of a crapshoot. I bought a MVA rear tang for my high wall when it shows up. Curious to see how it works.

Thanks Boys, appreciate the input. Believe me, I have no intent to drill and tap my barrel!