I have recently been gifted two Winchester model 1894s, one in .30-30, and one in .32 Special. Have shot them each with Hornady, Winchester and Remington factory loads, and each, at its lowest iron sight setting, is hitting a minimum of 5 1/2" high, using a "bead at bottom of the U, 6 o-clock" hold. Does this mean I need to pursue a replacement-height bead? Lower or higher? Also, recommendations for gunsmiths who specialize in lever action rifles? many thanks

Shoot with the bead even with the top of the U.

If you insist of using the bottom you need a higher front sight

Taller front sight for sure. I have installed period correct receiver sights on my 94's as I just shoot better with them than with the original open sights. With good sights you may be pleasantly surprised at how well these rifles shoot.
C.G.B.

In order to lower the POI you needto use the next tallest front sight, in your case that would be ever so little, 3 inches high is suitable but 2,1 or zero might be suitable to you?? First try holding your existing bead flush with the top pf the U..

A receiver sight solves all your problems as its adjustable and gives a better faster sight picture.

Surely holding the bead level with the top of the U would make the shots go even higher?

Yes.
Here are the rules; everyone memorize this:
1: Move the Rear sight in the direction you want the bullets to go.
2: Move the Front sight the opposite direction of where you want the bullets to go.
And yes, get a peep sight; much better in every way.
And you are a very lucky guy to have two free 94s. I had to pay for all mine; first one was in 1966; a pre 64 that cost $60. That was a fortune then for a high school kid.

When you shoot------just bend your knees a little!

Hip

Surely not in incorrect , a higher front site pushes the front sight down with the same hold..

To lower the bullet impact, lower the rear sight or elevate the front sight!

quote:

Originally posted by Atkinson:
Surely not in incorrect , a higher front site pushes the front sight down with the same hold..

To lower the bullet impact, lower the rear sight or elevate the front sight!

Rifle is already shooting too high.

Yes the rifle is shooting high so you lower the rear sight or get a higher front sight to do the same, lowering the impact..Its quite simple??

If only it were that easy when a scope is way out and the clicks are all used

Its shim city pard!!!