1911 sight adjustment

[salazar44]

Just got back from the indoor. Looks like my new 1911 is slightly low and to the left. I didnt bring any tools so I guess the next time I go Im going to have to adjust them. arghhh!!!!

Any tips on adjusting pistol sights? To be honest I never messed with pistol sighting in. Only rifle.

This one is showing two bullseyes I was aiming for. The green dot (1) and the sharpied ghetto blue dot (2). Both at 30ft(10yds)


This one is at 15ft


and this one I was aiming for the middle of the name box.

[Kruzr]

If this is your first 1911, then I'd suggest you leave the sights alone and work on trigger control. Let an experienced 1911 shooter try it to see if the results are the same before you move the sights.

Low left is the most common trigger error that new 1911 shooters experience.

[salazar44]

If this is your first 1911, then I'd suggest you leave the sights alone and work on trigger control. Let an experienced 1911 shooter try it to see if the results are the same before you move the sights.

Low left is the most common trigger error that new 1911 shooters experience.

Yes, this is good advice. Although my other pistol shooting doesnt indicate this type drifting low & left, I can still be doing something wrong.

[Old4eyes]

Shoot it from a bench rest or if that's not available, some sand bags. If it were simply just left / right from aim point, you'd have a stronger suspicion of sight alignment problem. It is not impossible that the sights are off (I have an HK that was not aligned correctly from the factory, and my EMP sight loosened up the second time out).

Maybe borrow a bore sighter to check things out, saves a bit on ammo.
I just got through using a laserlyte training cartridge and a shooting rest to get the EMP sight corrected.

But, Low and Left, sounds like you - I should know, that's my usual problem.

[MossbergMan]

What old4eyes said.....+1. Nice group on the "15" targetBTW! Most folks can't hold a group like that. As an instructor I'd say you're doing most everthing consistantly. not necessiarly right, but you are consistant. What 1911 are you shooting? My S/A had to have the rear sight replaced (a taller one to change POI up).
On a side note. Low may also be a function of distance v. sight regulation. Meaning it may very well shoot an 1/2 an inch or so low close, but be right on at 25 yards. Additionally bullet weight affects POI as does lighting.
Bench it and shoot, it's the only way to really tell. Take as much of "You" out of the equation to evaluate the gun/ammo combo. Ammuntion varies too. Try a different brand and never sight in with "Range Reloads". My experience is that althought they work, they are not consistant and most commerical reloaders are trying to save a buck where they can so components vary as does quality control (QC varies with factory fodder too).
So, bench the gun, use factory ammo (230 gr. standard for most sights) use a boresighter if you have access to one and let us know how you do. Good luck.

[salazar44]

Whats the best way to shoot from a bench rest with a pistol? Just rest the magwell on the bench or sandbag? I never seen anyone strapping down a pistol like you can a rifle I guess Ive been lucky because my other pistols have been on target out of the box.

My grouping seems a bit consistent so it makes me think that its not flinching or some other error. Unless my flinch is really consistent. quite possible.

I was shooting PMC bronze 230 grain, and the 1911 is an RIA Tac.

I will try all your suggestions and hopefully I can nail this down. Thanks for all your help!