Lyman Series 17A Target Front Sights Review

Let’s Dive into Lyman Series 17A Target Front Sights

The Lyman Series 17A Target Front Sights are more than just iron sights; they are a precision instrument aimed at enhancing accuracy and providing versatility for target shooters. Manufactured by Lyman, a name synonymous with quality in the firearms industry, these sights offer interchangeable inserts and robust steel construction, promising both durability and adaptability. For those seeking to refine their marksmanship, especially on classic rifles, the Lyman 17A offers a compelling upgrade.

I’ve spent years wrestling with factory iron sights, often finding them lacking in adjustability and struggling to achieve a truly crisp sight picture. That quest for clarity and precision led me to the Lyman Series 17A. I wanted a front sight that allowed me to fine-tune my focus and optimize sight alignment, and the interchangeable inserts seemed like the perfect solution.

Upon unboxing, the immediate impression was one of quality. The steel construction felt substantial, and the black finish was clean and even. The interchangeable inserts were neatly organized, and the threaded cap securing them felt secure. The weight, though minimal at 1 oz, felt reassuring, suggesting a robust build.

Compared to the basic front sights on many rifles, the Lyman 17A stands out significantly. I also considered the Williams Fire Sight, known for its fiber optic visibility, but ultimately chose the Lyman for its precision target focus. Similarly, while Meprolight offers excellent tritium night sights, my primary need was for daytime target accuracy.

My first impression was excitement. The potential for improved accuracy and the sheer quality of construction were immediately apparent. I felt confident that this sight would be a valuable addition to my rifles.

Real-World Testing: Putting Lyman Series 17A Target Front Sights to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at my local shooting range, focusing on rimfire rifles chambered in .22LR. The goal was to assess the sight’s impact on accuracy at distances ranging from 25 to 50 yards. The conditions were sunny, with a slight breeze, offering a fair assessment of the Lyman 17A’s performance in favorable weather.

The Lyman 17A proved remarkably easy to use. Swapping the inserts was simple, requiring only the loosening of the threaded cap. The variety of inserts allowed me to experiment with different apertures, quickly finding one that provided a clear and focused sight picture for my eyes. After a few adjustments, I was consistently achieving tighter groupings.

A minor surprise was the impact of light conditions on the clarity of the different inserts. Brighter light favored smaller apertures, while overcast conditions necessitated larger ones. This underscored the importance of the Lyman 17A’s adjustability.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Lyman 17A has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my shooting setup. It shows no signs of wear and tear, even after being exposed to various weather conditions and cleaning solvents. The steel construction remains solid.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a brush and solvent to remove any residue. The inserts remain securely in place, and the threaded cap continues to function flawlessly. The sight has consistently improved my accuracy.

Compared to my previous experiences with standard iron sights, the Lyman 17A is a clear winner. Its adjustability and crisp sight picture have significantly enhanced my shooting accuracy. It outperforms any other factory-installed sights I’ve previously used.

Breaking Down the Features of Lyman Series 17A Target Front Sights

Specifications

• The Lyman Series 17A Target Front Sights are designed to fit a standard 3/8″ dovetail slot (except the 17AEU, which uses a .360″ metric dovetail). This ensures compatibility with a wide range of rifles.

• Each sight is machined from solid steel, providing exceptional durability and resistance to wear and tear. The steel construction ensures longevity and consistent performance, even under demanding conditions.

• The sight weighs approximately 1 oz, adding minimal weight to the firearm. This is beneficial for maintaining balance and preventing fatigue during extended shooting sessions.

• Each sight comes with eight interchangeable inserts, offering various aperture sizes and configurations. This allows the shooter to customize the sight picture for optimal accuracy and clarity.

• Threaded cap securely locks the inserts in place. This prevents accidental dislodging during shooting and ensures consistent performance.

• The Lyman 17A is available in multiple heights: .404 (17AHB), .494 (17AMI), and .584 (17AUG). This allows the user to select the correct height for their rifle and rear sight combination, ensuring proper zeroing.

These specifications matter because they directly contribute to the sight’s accuracy, reliability, and user experience. The dovetail fit ensures compatibility, the steel construction guarantees durability, and the interchangeable inserts provide unparalleled adjustability.

Performance & Functionality

The Lyman Series 17A Target Front Sights excels at providing a clear and customizable sight picture for enhanced accuracy. The interchangeable inserts allow the shooter to tailor the sight to their specific needs and preferences.

The primary strength lies in its versatility and ability to fine-tune the sight picture. However, the lack of integrated windage adjustment is a potential drawback, requiring adjustments to be made at the rear sight or through drifting the front sight in the dovetail. It fully meets and often exceeds expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The Lyman 17A’s design is simple yet effective, prioritizing functionality and durability. The steel construction feels solid and well-made, and the black finish is both aesthetically pleasing and resistant to corrosion. The weight is negligible.

The sight is easy to install and use, with a minimal learning curve. Swapping inserts is straightforward, and the sight provides a clear and focused sight picture. No extensive adjustments are needed.

Durability & Maintenance

The steel construction ensures that the Lyman 17A is built to last. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service. The Lyman 17A is very easy to maintain & repair.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a brush and solvent. There are no small or delicate parts that are prone to breakage.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lyman Series 17A Target Front Sights comes with eight interchangeable inserts, allowing for immediate customization of the sight picture. While there are no specific “accessories” beyond the inserts, its compatibility with standard 3/8″ dovetail slots opens up possibilities for pairing it with various aftermarket rear sights.

It’s compatible with a wide range of rear sights designed for target shooting, allowing for further customization of the sighting system. Users can experiment with different aperture sizes and styles to find the optimal combination for their needs. A few are: Lyman, Williams, and Marbles.

Pros and Cons of Lyman Series 17A Target Front Sights

Who Should Buy Lyman Series 17A Target Front Sights?

The Lyman Series 17A Target Front Sights is perfect for target shooters, recreational shooters seeking improved accuracy, and those restoring or upgrading classic rifles. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance their shooting experience and achieve tighter groupings.

This product might not be ideal for tactical shooters who prioritize rapid target acquisition over precision. Those needing night sights should also explore other options. People who do not want to take the time to set up a precision optic.

A must-have accessory is a quality rear sight to complement the Lyman 17A. A gunsmiths file for very minor adjustments when fitting in the dovetail.

Conclusion on Lyman Series 17A Target Front Sights

The Lyman Series 17A Target Front Sights is a well-designed, durable, and highly effective upgrade for anyone seeking to improve their shooting accuracy. Its interchangeable inserts and robust steel construction make it a versatile and reliable addition to any rifle. It is offered by Lyman.

At a price of $49.89, the Lyman 17A offers excellent value for the money. The improvement in accuracy and the overall quality of the sight justify the investment. The price is justified.

I would highly recommend the Lyman 17A to anyone looking to enhance their shooting experience. Its adjustability, durability, and affordability make it a worthwhile upgrade for any rifle. Step up your shooting game today!