I have a Uberti 1885 Win copyin 45/70. I have long debated what type of sight to relace the factory sight for hunting and a bit longer range. As I age my eyes do too so I am thinking along the lines of a Marbells aperature type. I do want it to be period to the rifle and flexiable to hunt with and lob some rounds down range perhaps 200 yard or so.
ANY IDEAS?
PS: Would I need to change front bead?

I have a Browning 1885 in .454 and a Winchester 1885 in .45-90 equipped with aperture sights. I changed the front sights on both guns to Lyman 20 globe sights, with aperture inserts (I really like aperture front and rear sights). The Browning wears a Williams 5D receiver sight, while the Winchester has a Browning (Advance Technology) Vernier Tang sight. This gun came equipped with the Marbles Tang sight, but I wanted a longer-range sight, and I really like the appearance and adjustability of the Vernier sight (probably watched Quigley Down Under far too many times...).

Having said all that, the receiver sight is definitely the way to go if you want an excellent, very functional sighting system. It's far less obtrusive than the tang sights, and offers plenty of eye relief and excellent precision (plus, it's less expensive). If you want a more period flavor, the tang sights will give it, but they are a little more awkward to use. A good Vernier sight can be pretty pricey, but you can get along well with the Marble tang sight if you' don't need that level of precision or intend to shoot very long ranges.

Red:

axtell www.riflesmith.com (http://www.riflesmith.com) makes a windage adjustable vernier tang sight that is an authentic replica of the originals. The mid-range sight sells for $265.

They do make some nice sights. None of the nice sights (like these and the Advance Technology sights I have) come cheap, but they're beautiful, precision devices and worth the price.