Replacing pinned red ramp sight on a nickel 29-2

SigKev

SigKev

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I just purchased a well used, nickel 29-2 revolver with the 6.5 inch barrel this week. This is a factory nickel gun with the black front sight base and red ramp insert. As least that is what it is suppose to have, but unfortunately the previous owner dropped the gun, broke off the top of the sight which caused the red insert to fall out. I guess the owner then just took a file to the sight to smooth it out and left it that way.

So, I want to replace the front sight and return the gun to the factory configuration. Is this as simple as driving out the two pins, removing the old sight, inserting a new sight, and reinstalling the pins?

If that is the case, could some kind soul help me find the factory part number for the front sight with red ramp insert so I can order it from S&W? Would they still have the same sight used on the 29-2 revolvers?

BTW, I am considering sending the revolver to S&W to have it re-nickeled. I know that hurts the value of the gun, but I only paid $475 for the revolver. :) If I sent it in to be refinished, I assume S&W could also replace the front sight for me.

Thanks in advance for the help.
 
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You are correct. The new front sight blades will need to be drilled for the pin. Mark the pin hole location from each side with the sight in the front sight slot. Then remove the sight and drill about half way through from each side of the sight so you don't have the hole pop out off center on the opposite side. Not sure what height sight you will need...sorry. Did a search and I the drill size you need is a #54.
 
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When I checked a few years ago, the factory did not have this part. (If the one below is what you are looking for.)

If they don't have any now, you will either have to make one yourself or contact Hamilton Bowen, who has a replacement. His is generic, designed so it can be used on a wide range of S&Ws. It requires some work, but getting it to look like a factory sight should is a lot less work than making one from scratch.

I looked for several years, and did finally buy one from a forum member - of course after one of Mr. Bowen's was used on a Model 29 rehab project similar to yours.

M29_2_FS-1.jpg
 
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I have replaced the front sight blade on a M57, and it isn't a job that I would want to do again if I could avoid it. Unless you have a drill press, drilling the holes for the pins can be problematic and you have to be careful not to damage the pins and base when you attach the blade. Since you described your M27 as "well worn" and having been dropped by the previous owner why not just send it to S&W for the refinish and have them handle the front sight. At the same time, they can check the gun for potential mechanical problems.
 
SigKev,
You may consider looking for a used model 29 barrel that has a pinned ramp front sight. You can then switch out your damaged front sight. The pin holes will most likely not line up as a direct replacement. However, a cometent gunsmith should be able to re-install the replacement ramp on to your Nickel gun. You may want to ask S&W if they would do this work for you.

Good luck,
-KSK-
 
Solution...

I talked to someone at the S&W Performance Center about this question. It turns out that they will replace the damaged front sight when I send it in to get re-nickeled. That is a big relief. Thanks for all of your responses.
 
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