About Paul Johnston Expertise I can answer most questions regarding firearms, their use, function, action etc. with a focus on german firearms my speciality.
Experience I am a registered Federal Firearms Licensed dealer. and am owner of Johnston Small Arms Co. . I am a part-time gunsmith and full-time gun enthusiast.
Organizations Pro-Gun NH, Gun Owners of NH (G.O.N.H.), Life memeber NRA, Instructor NRA., member North American Hunting Club.
Education/Credentials I have a certificate in machining, and have apprenticed with Ed Lander of NH for 5 years, a full-time gunsmith since 1946.
Question Dear Sir,
I hope you do not mind answering my question, but it is not a specific gun related question. My question is in regards to a band of brothers scene that has baffled me and several others. The scene is in one of the last patrols. You see a soldier using a lighter and torching the front iron sights for a M1 garand. Why in the world is he doing this? I figured it might have something to do with being able to see at night sense this was a night raid, but I still am confused. Any help you can give me would be greatly appreciated.
Sincerely,
Webb Porter
Answer The reason they did this is actually for bright light (sunlight), not darkness. By blackening the front sight it makes mirage, from heat, etc. disappear. Myself if I am shooting in summer heat I use a small piece of birchbark as it smokes so much when lit. They actually sell sight-blackening spray nowadays. Pro shooters in the 50's to 80's used a miners cabon lamp to darken sights. Thanks for the question.
