To correctly identify the adjustable rear sight for your Smith & Wesson K or L frame, you must match the tang shape and the front leaf screw location.
S&W K & L Frame Rear Sight Evolution Chart
| Generation | Era | Dash Range (e.g., Model 19) | Tang Shape | Screw Location (Distance from Step) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Early Square | Pre-1967 | No Dash to -2 | Square | Forward Position (approx. 0.450" - 0.500") |
| 2. Late Square | 1967–1993 | -3 to -6 | Square | Rearward Position (approx. 0.650") |
| 3. New Style | 1994–Present | -7 and later | Rounded | Standardized (3-hole Drill & Tap frame) |
1. Early Square Tang (No Dash to -2)
These models use a square-ended tang where the front mounting screw is located closer to the front of the revolver.
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K-Frame Models:
14(No Dash to -2),15(No Dash to -2),17(No Dash to -2),19(No Dash to -2),48(No Dash to -2).
- Compatibility: These sights are unique to this era. A sight from a -3 or later will not line up with the factory-drilled hole in your frame
2. Late Square Tang (-3 to -6)
In 1967, Smith & Wesson standardized the mounting hole by moving it further back (toward the hammer) to accommodate a more robust design.
K-Frame Models: 14-3 to 14-5, 15-3 to 15-6, 17-3 to 17-5, 19-3 to 19-6,
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66(No Dash to -3), 67 (No Dash to -2).
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L-Frame Models:
586(No Dash to -4),686(No Dash to -3).
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Measurement: The critical distance is from the centerline of the tang screw hole to the edge of the body section.
3. Round Tang (-7 and Later)
Starting in 1994, S&W transitioned to "Drill & Tap" frames. The front of the sight leaf was rounded to fit the new CNC-machined pocket on the top strap.
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K-Frame Models: 19-7+, 66-4+,
617, 648.
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L-Frame Models:
586-5+,686-4+.
- Identification: If you open the cylinder and see three holes coming through the underside of the top strap, your revolver uses the modern rounded-tang sight
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