1903A3 SmithCorona Front Sight

[PeterSandberg]

Looking for some help and counsel on attaching the front sight to a 1903A3 Smith Corona. It was a sporter which we are putting back into orignal configuration. Have the blade, band, key and both pins. Seems that the blade pin is very difficult to drive thru the upper part of the band, thru the blade and out the other side. Could use some hints on conducting this seemingly simple task.

Also could use some counsel on easy methods of attaching band and key onto the barrel.

thanks
Pete

Information

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[Chuckindenver]

use a sharp nosed blunt bunch to start it. driving left to right out.. and right to left in...
once you get the pin started out, and have enough to grab...use a pair of side cutters to pull the pin the rest of the way out, then with the muzzle down, and resting on a wood block, drive the sight base off with a plastic or brass headed hammer.

[LakeCity]

I'm considering a front sight change too on an 03A3. Left and Right have different meanings depending on which way you're looking. "driving left to right out.. " is this as seen from the muzzle end of the barrel or the chamber end?

[Johnny Peppers]

Calculate right and left from the way you hold the rifle to fire it. Bolt handle will always be on the right when held in the firing position. Same on front sight.