Removing the front sight

Haven't posted for ages, but I'm literally a bit stuck with this one. My Remington p14, which I originally found, lost, and found again continues to shoot and operate as well as it ever did. The only fly in the ointment is that a previous owner has hacksawed of the bayonet lug:eek:. All matching numbers, good bore, all the markings on the stock still intact etc, so keen to get a bayonet for it. They cost a fortune here in Australia, when you can find one that is, but that is beside the point.

I stripped the rifle down very carefully to remove the front band, as I purchased a replacement one from Sarco, only to find I cannot get the front sight off. Totally destroyed a plastic mallet in the process, even though I had soaked it in penetrating oil, froze it, heated it up etc. Absolutely no damage to the front sight, which I wrapped in leather, and used timber as a buffer as well, but it did not budge at all..... The locating pin came out easy enough, but I am very reluctant to try any harder for fear of bubba'ing the thing. It appears to be totally seized on, or else a very tight interference fit.....any suggestions would be greatly appreciated....

I think they can only be drifted one way it is either R-L or L-R of which I am unsure those with the knowledge will advise shortly

I've run into the same problem. A lump of 2x4 knock some sense into the front sight. For the super stubborn there is a front sight puller available similar to a m1 carbine sight puller. It works a treat. Got mine from that online auction site. Search: 'Front sight removal tool for 1917 Enfield'

They are a *itch to get off if they have been on for a while, like 100 years plus. Front sight puller is the best. I have also use a 2x4 as well. LOL!!

I just think there's not enough determination involved...but was hesitant to post yesterday about it. You don't need to damage, just insist it comes off.

Front sight puller. Speaking from expirence here.

The issue is smacking it with something soft, of course you don't want to damage it, but the reality is that method requires the gun front sight solid and secure and metal to metal ala hammer to X (or at most some thin thing to cushion it)

A large punch works, spreads out the force. Anything brass or metal or even something made.

If you can get a front site removal tool those work smooth and nice but helps to cushion them as well (depends on whats on the end of the pusher shaft)

You can make a clamp and screw system to do it.

Will see if I can find my front sight adjustment tool ref, works to remove as well.