Tips for Removing Dovetail Rear Sights

Gunsmithing & DIY
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Removing dovetail rear sights can be tricky, but with the right approach, you can do it safely and effectively. Here’s a step-by-step guide that should make the process smoother:

Tools You’ll Need:

  • Punch Tool: A brass or plastic punch can help prevent damage to your sights.
  • Hammer: A lightweight hammer is best to avoid over-striking.
  • Vise: If you have one, securing your firearm can provide stability.
  • Lubricant: A penetrating oil can help with stubborn sights.

Steps to Remove Dovetail Rear Sights:

  1. Prepare the Firearm: Ensure the firearm is unloaded, and clear of any ammunition. Safety first!
  2. Apply Lubricant: If the sights seem stuck, apply a few drops of penetrating oil to loosen any rust or debris.
  3. Secure the Firearm: If possible, place the firearm in a vise, ensuring it’s stable but not overly clamped.
  4. Choose Your Punch: Use the correct size punch to fit the dovetail slot. A too-large punch can damage the sight.
  5. Strike with Care: Gently tap the punch with your hammer, applying steady pressure towards the appropriate direction of the dovetail. Usually, it will be towards the muzzle.
  6. Inspect & Remove: Once loose, you should be able to slide the sight out. If it’s really stubborn, repeat the lubrication and tapping steps.

Common Issues:

  • Tight Fits: If the sight feels impossible to budge, double-check alignment and ensure you’re using the right tools. Both force and finesse are required.
  • Potential Damage: Be cautious of using too much force, as it can damage the sight or the firearm.

This guide should help you tackle that dovetail rear sight with confidence. If anyone has additional tips or experiences, feel free to share!

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Removing dovetail rear sights can be tricky! Using a sight pusher is the safest method. It helps in applying even pressure without scratching your firearm.

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Absolutely! They’re essential for avoiding damage. A good brass punch can also help if you need to tap it out gently.

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Don’t forget about using some lubricant on the sight and dovetail! It can make the process smoother and reduce friction.

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For sure! Just make sure to use a proper size punch to avoid damaging the sight.

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I’ve always found that a little heat can help loosen the sight, especially if it’s been on there for a while. Just be careful not to overdo it!

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That’s a great tip! I should try that next time. What do you use to apply the heat?

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A simple heat gun works just fine. It allows you to control the heat better than a flame, which can be risky!

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I tried using a hammer and punch once… needless to say, it didn’t end well! A sight pusher is definitely the way to go for novices like me!

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I agree! There’s no shame in using the right tools for the job. Better safe than sorry!

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How do you all feel about sight pusher recommendations? I’m considering getting one that’s not too expensive.

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Removing dovetail rear sights can be tricky, but I’ve got a step-by-step method. First, ensure the firearm is unloaded. Use a sight pusher tool if possible to prevent any scratches. Remember to apply a little solvent to ease any tight fits!

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Great tips, Lisa! I’d also recommend using some masking tape around the area to prevent any scuffs while you work. It’s a good precaution!

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Make sure you’re using a proper sight pusher maker for your model; it makes a huge difference! Some sights are looser or tighter than others depending on the fit. Just take it slow.

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Absolutely! Also, a little heat can help if the sight is stubborn. Just be careful not to heat the polymer parts.

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You can also try tapping the rear sight gently from the side if it’s really stubborn, but be cautious not to damage the dovetail. Patience is key!

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17

Honestly, the best tool for the job is patience. I once rushed it and scratched my slide. Now I take my time with every sight removal, especially with dovetails.

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That’s a great point! I guess we’ve all had a moment we regretted. Are there any other tips for dealing with stripped dovetails?

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If the dovetail is stripped, it might be worth investing in a dovetail repair kit. They can help fix those issues, but it’s a bit more work. Just a heads up!

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Thanks for that! I’ll keep it in mind. By the way, does anyone have funny mishap stories while removing sights? They can be quite a learning experience!