Front Sight on Model 17-3

packleader · Jun 10, 2009

I need to have the front sight on my 1977 Model 17-3 changed because a previous owner filed the sight down.

Does anyone know whether the front sight is pinned or how it can be taken off the barrel?

Thanks

H Richard · Jun 10, 2009

I'm not sure on the 17-3, but I am pretty sure it is the same as my 17-4. The sight blade is integral with the sight base, which is (?) sweat soldered on the top rib. A gunsmith could replace the entire unit, or mill off the sight blade, and mill in a recess to pin in a new blade. Either way would require a good knowledgeable gunsmith. You could also probably send it back to S&W for replacement, but need to call them to see if they still work on a gun of this vintage.

153 · Jun 10, 2009

If your sight was integral with the barrel, your best bet is to send the revolver to S&W and have them mount a new sight.

They might even be able to set up your barrel for the interchangable sights - that would be cool!!!!

retired2006 · Jun 10, 2009

My 17-4 and my 48-4 both have the pinned on front sights, you have to look real close to see the pin, but they are there. You will need a good quality pin punch of the proper size to remove the pin, and hopefully not mar the barrel ! Finding the replacement front sight maybe the hard part.

Gun 4 Fun · Jun 11, 2009

My '75 vintage 17-3 has a pinned on front sight. The blade and base are one piece, and are pinned to the rib via one pin. You have to look very carefully to see the pin, but it's there. That should make replacement fairly easy to accomplish with the right tools, or by a good 'smith, or the factory.

Roadranger · Jun 11, 2009

If the front sight is pinned on as I suspect, You'll have to look very hard to see the pin, as related by 2006. Replacement front sights are as easy as a call to MidwayUSA. They have them in several styles and heights. I always replace mine with a ramp(Baughman) style in black. A K-22 will not need a very high sight, probably around.200" or so. Bob!!

Front Sight on Model 17-3

packleader

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H Richard

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153

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retired2006

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Gun 4 Fun

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Roadranger

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