Front Barrel band assembly

[64701Now]

I've been having fun with a 91/30 from parts project. I started with an arsenal refurb action, and an unissued NOS stock. I think I have all the correct small parts. I'm stuck on the last (front) barrel band though, as it doesn't seem to want to clear the front sight/sight hood. I have the little field tool kit, but I'm not sure if I am supposed to disengage the claw in the band, or if there is some other "trick" to this part of reassembly. I've tried two different bands with the same result. I'm sure they wouldn't have made it so it would be difficult. This is an Izhevsk round receiver. Any constructive advice would be appreciated.

[fn111557]

If I remember the front sight has to be removed to get the bands on or off.

[Aragorn243]

You can get the middle band off but not the front band. I usually just leave both on the barrel when I'm working on the wood.

[64701Now]

Thanks. Much appreciated.