receiver sight preference on model 81

[jmm03]

Hello all, new here, finding it very interesting reading about these old auto loaders. I always was intrigued about the design and looks of the model 81 but only recently came into possession of the one I have. It is in .300 Savage, appears to be a 1940 vintage rifle according to the serial number. I have some old factory ammo that I will shoot up to get the cases for reloading and any suggestions as to accuracy loads would be appreciated. I have 4064, 4895, H4831SC, as I load for 03's and Swede Mausers among others, using mostly 150 Sierras for the 03's and 142's for the swedes. I find that my older eyes are having a difficult time with open sights and am looking for either a Lyman 2A or a Redfield 102. I will not tap for a scope or a different sight as this rifle is in very good, unmolested condition, I don't think it got any use over the years as there are no dings or gouges, the bluing and finish shows no wear, and it has hardly any scratches, I lucked out. Thoughts on the benefits and drawbacks of the sights I am interested in would be greatly appreciated. I am a shooter, not a hunter, and most of my shooting will be off the bench or sitting on the ground. Hopefully I will have something to contribute here. Jim McGuinness

[chas1949]

I have used 4895, full length resize cases and round nose bullets 150-200 gr.
Pointed bullets do not feed well or consistently

[Hibby83]

Hello jmm3.
Nice score on a clean 81.

The Redfield 102N needs an additional hole tapped to be mounted correctly.

I'd suggest a Lyman or Marbles tang peep sight. I like the Lyman as much or more than the Marbles. Good luck in your searches.

[jmm03]

Thanks for the tip about the Redfield, I would rather not drill and tap if I can avoid it. I like the look of the Lyman better anyway, I just think it suits the look of the rifle. I have been looking for a while, the ones on fleabay recently quickly escalated beyond my means. Jim

[MinnesotaDan]

I have used 3031, 4064, and Vihtavouri N140. All do well, the VV N140 is very clean and accurate, the 4064 is always good, and the 3031 is versatile with cast bullets.

[Roger]

Sir, I own and have owned many Lyman and Marbles tang peep sights. Either one works fine for target or hunting work. I’ve probably shot more rounds from M8 and M81s than anyone I know. Hundreds of rounds from the bench ,and many while deer hunting. I’d use whichever looks best to you. The Marbles does have replaceable apertures. However,some Lyman models have the small flip down aperture. Others don’t. I personally like the locking lever mechanism on the Lymans. It’s all a personal preference deal in my humble opinion.
As far as reloading goes, I had good success with 4895 and Hornady bullets in 300 savage. Their leverevolution bullets also work quite well in all the M8 and M81 calibers. Good luck with your project
Roger

[Phyrbird]

If you search the net there is Leverrevolution data there for the 300Sav. Don't be bashful the 300S is just slightly smaller capacity from the 308. 180g, 165g, 175g should be impressive. Plus I have had great luck with pointed bullets in the M8-81 actions, just seat to depth for the mag. If you can find a Ken Waters pet loads you will Grin!!

[jmm03]

Waiting on a Marples, wasn't cheap but has the removeable diopter that the Lyman doesn't. Looking forward to some range time once I install it to see how the old girl does at 100. I also installed a Lyman 17A on the front, may not be historically correct, although the old Lyman catalogs do list one for the application, but I am a shooter more than a collector and it fit right into the dovetail without modifying the rifle in any way so purists should not be offended. Jim

[Phyrbird]

I prefer the old Dockendorf globe sights. They are not as high as the Lyman, & easier on the sight picture as well as fitting cases better. The Light window helps visibility too.