Front sight question

[JimJr]

I'm wanting to remove my front sight so that I can remove the upper band. I've driven the pin H, but the sight aperture doesn't seem to move in either direction easily. And I've lightly tapped on the backside with a small block of walnut and an 8oz hammer. Looking for some help please. Thank's in advance, Jim.

Information

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[jamie5070]

You might try some light heat, on the band portion, before tapping with a block of wood and hammer

[JimJr]

Thanks for the reply. That's what I'm going to try next. Guess I was just wanting to see it if there was a Trick if you will. But I appreciate you taking the time to reply. Update: Used a little heat from a propane torch, and after a couple good whack's, it was off.

Jim

[Patrick Chadwick]

I saw this too late! The trick is to use a block of brass, not wood, between the hammer and the foresight band. Brass transmits the shock of the blow without marring the steel. Wood is much more compliant, thus softening the blow.

[JimJr]

I saw this too late! The trick is to use a block of brass, not wood, between the hammer and the foresight band. Brass transmits the shock of the blow without marring the steel. Wood is much more compliant, thus softening the blow.

Thanks anyway Patrick! I'll Remember that helpful tip in the future!
Jim

[ssgross]

Mine wouldn't come off either, and handgaurd ring was all bent up. I liberally applied kroil penetrating oil, let it sit a few hours, then tapped smartly (I didn't smash it. just smart controlled raps) with a small brass head hammer, and let sit a while longer. Vibrations work the oil into the joint. Then a piece of walnut dowel, and a big hammer. One smart blow to get it moving, then lots of light taps to work it off the rest of the way. If I had a large brass drift at the time...well it would have gone faster. Light heat also helps the oil work in deep (no flame...heat gun). I've never had to cut off a 1903 front sight, no matter how stubborn it was. Works on the pin too.