There are a few "tricks" that can make sight installation a lot easier. First, sight dovetails are held in place with an "interference fit" meaning the site is bigger than the groove. Some are bigger than others and will require a small amount of fitting. Try pushing a new site into the groove by finger. It should start and go partway in..no more than 1/4. If it's too tight, loosen it up slightly by sliding the site bottom on a piece of wet/dry sandpaper placed on a hard FLAT block. It only takes a little. Check it often since it's much easier to remove a little more than it is to put it back!
Second, use a dry lube but only if it's pretty tight. (Locktite if it's snug)
Third, warm the slide but leave the sight cold.
Fourth, front sights are usually broken off because the tool slipped off of the base edge and whacked the post. I use a very large brass drift pin that I grind the tip on to match the job.
Finally, the slide needs to be very steady. Clamp it in a vise. (Padded jaws)
For tough jobs, I use my massive slide clamp/sight press.
Of course, the easiest way to swap your sights is to send it to us to have our Tuff-Gun finish applied to the slide. We'll swap the sites while we have it here.
Keep yer powder dry, Mac.
Tuff-Gun Finishes. The Name Says It All.
Mac's Shootin' Irons
http://www.shootiniron.com[/url]
09-23-2007, 12:12 AM
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