I recently got a 39-2 that has seen some use and want to do a detail strip on it. I have done this for both my 2nd and 3rd gens, but do not see how to remove the rear sight. I am just wondering how do you remove the rear, windage adjustable only, sight on a 1st gen semi-auto?

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J.D. Roy

It's really pretty simple.
There is a metal tab on top that runs from the rear sight to the ejection port. That's part of the sight assembly. At the end of this metal tab is a small hole. Take a small punch that will fit in the hole and pry the end of the tab up enough to clear the slot. Just takes a bit, the thickness of the tab. Then turn the tab 90* to one side. Keep your thumb on top of the sight blade to hold the sight in place. There's a spring under the sight. Once you have turned the sight 90* then lift the assembly straight up. Don't lose that small spring. Most likely the sight assembly won't go flying off as the spring isn't that strong and the sight assembly is probably a bit snug.

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183rd FBINA

Thanks, I didn't think it would be too difficult, but I didn't just want to start prying and twisting things then have all of my springs fly across the room (that has never happened to me, well maybe a couple of times).

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J.D. Roy

Understand that for sure. I too have never had a spring fly across the room. Where it went to I have no idea.

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183rd FBINA

When you know springs, pins, etc are in there and you don't want to lose them.....get yourself the extra large, clear freezer zip lock type bag.

Put the gun (or part) inside and disassemble. Clear so you can see whats going on and all the small parts get caught and remain in the bag when everything flies apart!

Just what I needed to know. Thanks very much.

Mine was tight and I had to tap it out with a punch and hammer. But it worked. That little spring and the part below it are the magazine disconnector. I wanted to take it out so I can shoot the gun in IDPA.