First Impressions of Midwest Industries Smith & Wesson 1854 Extended Sight System
The lever-action rifle is an American icon, and the Smith & Wesson 1854 is a modern interpretation of that classic design. However, as with many modern rifles, the factory sights can leave a lot to be desired, and the need to mount modern optics and accessories becomes paramount. The Midwest Industries Smith & Wesson 1854 Extended Sight System promises to bring the 1854 into the 21st century with improved sights and modularity.
My foray into the lever-action world with the S&W 1854 was immediately hampered by the limited sight options. I wanted to modernize my rifle with a red dot optic for faster target acquisition and add a weapon light for low-light situations. This led me on a quest for a reliable and versatile mounting solution, and the Midwest Industries system seemed to offer everything I needed.
Upon unboxing the Midwest Industries Smith & Wesson 1854 Extended Sight System, I was immediately struck by the robust feel of the handguard. The anodized aluminum felt solid and well-machined, and the ghost ring sights looked significantly more substantial than the factory irons. The weight was noticeable but not excessive, suggesting a good balance between durability and handling.
Compared to other lever-action handguard options from companies like Ranger Point Precision and XS Sights, the Midwest Industries system stood out for its integrated ghost ring sight and full-length Picatinny rail. I felt that the Midwest Industries option offered the best balance of features and value for my needs. My initial impression was excitement – this looked like exactly what my S&W 1854 needed to reach its full potential.
Real-World Testing: Putting Midwest Industries Smith & Wesson 1854 Extended Sight System to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range trip with the Midwest Industries Smith & Wesson 1854 Extended Sight System installed was a revelation. I tested it at my local shooting range, primarily focusing on target acquisition speed and accuracy at distances of 25 to 100 yards. I also wanted to verify how well the ghost ring sight system works under different shooting conditions.
The weather was slightly overcast with a light drizzle, providing a mild test of the handguard’s finish and the sights’ visibility. The ghost ring proved to be incredibly fast to acquire, even in the less-than-ideal lighting. I was easily hitting steel targets at 50 yards with the iron sights after a short adjustment period. There was no noticeable shift in point of impact after installing the handguard, even with a red dot sight added.
The M-LOK slots allowed me to quickly attach a weapon light and a foregrip, enhancing the rifle’s ergonomics and control. After initially zeroing the rifle, the Midwest Industries Smith & Wesson 1854 Extended Sight System felt like a natural extension of the rifle.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Midwest Industries Smith & Wesson 1854 Extended Sight System has proven to be exceptionally durable. I’ve taken it on multiple hunting trips and training courses, exposing it to various weather conditions and demanding situations. The finish shows only minor signs of wear, primarily around the M-LOK slots where accessories have been attached and detached.
Cleaning the handguard is simple – a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth is all it takes to remove dirt and grime. The steel ghost ring and front sight post show no signs of rust or corrosion. Compared to other aftermarket handguards I’ve used in the past, the Midwest Industries system feels significantly more robust and well-built. It inspires confidence that it will withstand years of hard use.
Breaking Down the Features of Midwest Industries Smith & Wesson 1854 Extended Sight System
Specifications
The Midwest Industries Smith & Wesson 1854 Extended Sight System is designed specifically for the Smith & Wesson 1854 lever-action rifle. It features a handguard length of 13.625 inches, providing ample space for mounting accessories.
The Midwest Industries handguard is constructed from hard coat anodized 6061 aluminum, offering a lightweight yet durable platform. It includes a steel rear aperture and front sight post.
The sight system utilizes a heavy-duty ghost ring for rapid target acquisition and incorporates windage and elevation adjustments for precise zeroing. The handguard also features a full-length Picatinny top rail for optics mounting and M-LOK compatible slots for attaching accessories. Additionally, the system includes a forward-mounted sling swivel.
Performance & Functionality
The Midwest Industries Smith & Wesson 1854 Extended Sight System drastically improves the functionality of the S&W 1854. The ghost ring sight offers a significant upgrade over the factory iron sights, allowing for faster and more intuitive target acquisition. The full-length Picatinny rail provides a stable and reliable platform for mounting optics, such as red dot sights or scopes.
The M-LOK slots offer unparalleled versatility for attaching accessories like lights, lasers, and foregrips. The wide range of windage and elevation adjustment for the rear sight allows for use with various ammunition types.
The only potential weakness is the added weight, which may affect the rifle’s balance for some users. However, the benefits in terms of sight improvement and accessory mounting capabilities far outweigh this minor drawback. The product certainly exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Midwest Industries Smith & Wesson 1854 Extended Sight System boasts a slim and lightweight design, maintaining the rifle’s balance and maneuverability. The handguard’s width of 1.640 inches feels comfortable in hand, allowing for a secure and ergonomic grip. The build quality is exceptional, with precise machining and a flawless anodized finish.
Installation is straightforward, requiring only basic tools and a few minutes of time. The ergonomic improvements are immediately noticeable, especially when combined with a vertical foregrip. The system is very user-friendly with minimal learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from hard coat anodized 6061 aluminum, the Midwest Industries Smith & Wesson 1854 Extended Sight System is built to withstand the rigors of heavy use. The steel ghost ring and front sight post are resistant to corrosion and impact damage. Proper cleaning and lubrication will ensure a long service life.
The system is easy to maintain, requiring only occasional cleaning and inspection. Individual components are easily replaceable if needed. The Midwest Industries lifetime warranty offers peace of mind, ensuring that the system will last for years to come.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Midwest Industries Smith & Wesson 1854 Extended Sight System comes with a 5-slot M-LOK rail section, providing additional mounting options. The full-length Picatinny rail is compatible with a wide range of optics, including red dot sights, scopes, and holographic sights. The M-LOK slots allow for the attachment of various accessories such as lights, lasers, foregrips, and sling mounts.
The forward-mounted sling swivel offers a convenient mounting point for traditional hunting slings. There are endless possibilities to customize the rifle based on user preference.
Pros and Cons of Midwest Industries Smith & Wesson 1854 Extended Sight System
Pros
- Dramatically improved sight system: The ghost ring sight allows for faster and more accurate target acquisition.
- Enhanced modularity: The full-length Picatinny rail and M-LOK slots enable the mounting of various optics and accessories.
- Durable construction: The hard coat anodized aluminum and steel components ensure long-lasting reliability.
- Easy installation: The system can be installed quickly and easily with basic tools.
- Lifetime Warranty: Midwest Industries stands behind its products with a lifetime warranty.
Cons
- Added weight: The handguard adds some weight to the rifle, which may affect balance for some users.
- Price: The system is relatively expensive compared to some other aftermarket handguards.
Who Should Buy Midwest Industries Smith & Wesson 1854 Extended Sight System?
The Midwest Industries Smith & Wesson 1854 Extended Sight System is perfect for:
- Hunters who want to improve their target acquisition speed and accuracy in various lighting conditions.
- Tactical shooters who need a versatile platform for mounting optics and accessories.
- Anyone who wants to modernize their Smith & Wesson 1854 with a durable and reliable handguard.
Those who prioritize lightweight rifles and are on a tight budget might want to consider other options. This is a great upgrade for most lever-action owners.
Must-have accessories or modifications include a quality red dot sight, a weapon light, and a vertical foregrip.
Conclusion on Midwest Industries Smith & Wesson 1854 Extended Sight System
The Midwest Industries Smith & Wesson 1854 Extended Sight System is a worthwhile upgrade for anyone looking to modernize their Smith & Wesson 1854 lever-action rifle. The improved sights, enhanced modularity, and durable construction make it a valuable addition to any shooter’s arsenal. While the price may be a bit steep for some, the benefits it provides in terms of performance and functionality justify the investment.
I would personally recommend this product to anyone looking to enhance their S&W 1854. It has completely transformed the way I shoot my lever gun. Upgrade your lever-action today with the Midwest Industries Smith & Wesson 1854 Extended Sight System and experience the difference!