Can the factory mill/install a red ramp onto this 66 front sight?

aterry33 · #1 05-11-2010, 08:54 AM

I know the black ramps can be switched out to red ramps, but I've never inquired about whether or not a sight with no ramp can be milled to accept one, or if it can be switched out somehow.

s&wchad · #2 05-11-2010, 08:57 AM

You can do it yourself.

BROWNELLS : FRONT SIGHT INSERT KIT - World's Largest Supplier of Firearm Accessories, Gun Parts and Gunsmithing Tools

Anthony333 · #3 05-13-2010, 09:16 AM

My 66 no dash has a pin in its front sight ramp... its almost impossible to see, but i am sure it is pinned... i will post a pic and ask the people who know to verify this.. have a good look , maybee it is pinned?
http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s...6/a2521781.jpg

H Richard · #4 05-13-2010, 11:07 AM

A few layers of carefully applied Testers Model paint will show you how it will look. I have found that unless heavily used, it stands up well, and can be removed with acetone if you decide to,

cowart · #5 05-13-2010, 12:03 PM

The pin is quite visible in the photo.

Big Cholla · #6 05-13-2010, 12:31 PM

aterry: Yes. Your front sight might be an insert pinned into a recess or it might be solid milling. If it is the first it is easy to remove and replace with a factory or after-market sight blade of your choice. If it is the second a competent gunsmith/machinist could mill off the blade, cut a recess with the proper sized keyway cutter, install your replacement sight blade choice and cross pin. .......... Big Cholla

Doc44 · #7 05-13-2010, 01:04 PM

There are gunsmiths who will install the red insert in your current sight without removing it. Also, I had one done by Mag-na-Port that was better than a factory sight (red or orange insert...cost is $55 per the listing on their current website).

Bill

ishootblanks · #8 05-13-2010, 01:13 PM

Does your 66 have an all stainless rear sight also? If so, your 66 is one of the early ones with stainless front and rear sights and will bring a premium, as there weren't a lot of those made. Just something to consider before you "ruin" it.

aterry33 · #9 05-13-2010, 01:35 PM

Yes, it is one of the original 66s with the stainless rear sight. I don't feel bad about modifying the front sight as I plan to shoot/carry it.

I checked with my local smith who does very good work and he's going to mill out the little notch on the sight and fill it with a red polymer insert. I figure that this is better than milling off the entire sight, pinning it, and putting a new sight on. Do you guys agree?

It is a little hard on my eyes right now to pick up a stainless rear and front sight picture, but I think the red ramp will help a lot. I didn't like the stainless rear sight at first (except from a coolness standpoint) but now I think it will work well, since everything is stainless, it really forces you to focus on the front sight.

DGNY · #10 05-13-2010, 04:12 PM

Good plan to get some color up front on the ramp. I would like to second the notion of using paint to start, as it is easily removed when desired and the insert is not. I have found pink/red nail polish works well. And is remarkably durable.

Some say a base coat of white model paint followed by iridescent green is most visible.

Best,

Dyson