My M&P Sights Are Off - Help

[egouin]

So I figured out why I keep missing the steel targets I am shooting at with my M&P 45... the sights are off. Every single shot is high and to the right. I have three M&Ps. I shoot the 45 the most (because I can reload for it), carry a 40c, and have a 9mm for my wife. I decided to do some practicing with the .40 and the 9mm today... wouldn't ya know... I was hitting the targets.

Now, the question is, how can I adjust the M&P 45 sights? Is this something Smith & Wesson would "fix"? Something I can do? Something I need to take to a gunsmith?

 

[lateapex31]

Has someone else shot the gun? Or maybe try shooting it frokm a rest or beanbag?

 

[Gammon]

So I figured out why I keep missing the steel targets I am shooting at with my M&P 45... the sights are off. Every single shot is high and to the right. I have three M&Ps. I shoot the 45 the most (because I can reload for it), carry a 40c, and have a 9mm for my wife. I decided to do some practicing with the .40 and the 9mm today... wouldn't ya know... I was hitting the targets.

Now, the question is, how can I adjust the M&P 45 sights? Is this something Smith & Wesson would "fix"? Something I can do? Something I need to take to a gunsmith?

Windage can be adjusted by moving the rear sight in its dovetail. Elevation can be changed by altering the height of the front sight; a taller front sight will lower point of impact. The Dawson Precision web site has graphic info on the affect of front sight changes. This might also be the time to install a fiber optic front sight, should you be so inclined.

 

[Gammon]

PS I have had some real problems with S&W sights. I had a 4516 that shot a beautiful group at 50 yds, 18 in below point of aim! A shorter front sight solved the problem, but you do wonder how they could ship a pistol shooting that low.

 

[mac67]

Has someone else shot the gun? Or maybe try shooting it frokm a rest or beanbag?

This. Also does it happen with your reloads AND factory ammo ?

 

[egouin]

This. Also does it happen with your reloads AND factory ammo ?

Yep, it is definitely the sights. Ammo doesn't matter. Reasonably small groups high and to the right.

 

[Thib]

You can drift the rear with a brass punch, gently. Or... just wait till I order the sight tool to fiber up my 2 and meet me at the club.

Elevation, different story. In my case there was a loose connection between the grip and my eyes.

Also, if you do decide to change the sights, might I suggest the Apex DCAEK while you are at it...

 

[dhawk69]

Have you thought about any of these possibilities? The higher the caliber, the more pronounced small technique problems are. If the .45 is a full size and your .40 is a 40c, you're going to have a different grip.
High and right possible reasons:

1. Slackening the wrist while the pistol fires.
2. Heeling: applying pressure with the heel of the hand while the pistol fires.​

3. Anticipating recoil.

 

[egouin]

Have you thought about any of these possibilities? The higher the caliber, the more pronounced small technique problems are. If the .45 is a full size and your .40 is a 40c, you're going to have a different grip.
High and right possible reasons:

1. Slackening the wrist while the pistol fires.
2. Heeling: applying pressure with the heel of the hand while the pistol fires.​

3. Anticipating recoil.

Perhaps, but I don't think this is the issue. The impact is consistently high and to the right. If it was a technique issue, I would expect inconsistencies. If I shift my POA to the lower left of the target (increasing with distance), I can hit the target. If I put 50 rounds into a paper target at 30 ft, I create roughly a 3" hole. While not expert, the group(s) are pretty darn consistent.

BTW - I am a left handed shooter. Each of my M&Ps have had trigger jobs.

 

[dhawk69]

If it was a technique issue, I would expect inconsistencies.

Not necessarily. If you're a good at everything else, one problem will cause a tight group consistently in one different spot on the target. If as a lefty, you were jerking the trigger, you'd be low and right. Opposite from a righty.
If you're sure it's the sights, they're relatively easy to adjust on the M&P. You'll need to loosen the allen wrench on the rear sight and tap it left or right with a brass punch. I think you'll need a new FSP for elevation on the M&P. I could be corrected on that one... I bought Pro iDots for my M&P 40.