D&T on 629-2 for MRD

[medezyner]

I did some cruising through this forum and couldn't find an answer specific to my needs. Can you d&t a 629/29 without going through the top strap? I really prefer not to see holes on the strap underside, but will accept that if there are no other option. I have an Allinchin mini STS mount and a Burris FF 3 red dot ready to go. These tired eyes like micro red dots and I'd like to do Steel Challenge and hunt with this revolver. Am I barking up the wrong tree or is this no thru-holes actually doable? Can the factory sight hole be utilized, or is one hole drilled forward of it and 2 more behind it?
I know, I know - sell it and get a later model that's factory d&t. I really like this revolver and cant part with it. Plus my firearm's budget is blown for the next year. Thanks all!

 

[Protocall_Design]

It could be done, but I think would compromise the strength of the mounting by quite a bit. The threaded part of the screws would have to be very short. The best way IMO would be to tap all the way through, then make the screws flush with the underside of the topstrap.

 

[medezyner]

I hear whst you're saying, that was one of my conserns: adequate threads. Has anyone done this...not gone through the strap? Maybe d&t 48 threads/inch will offset the shallower depth? Someone out there must have experimented...or maybe they were smart enough not to go down this path!
; )

 

[Engine49guy]

I would sell the 629-2 and buy a 629-3 or higher as the payoff probably wont be worth the headache...
plus you would be upgrading to the better endurance package versions.

 

[jmclfrsh]

Absolutely it can be done. My gunsmith did my Model 629 without going all the way through the topstrap.

If you cannot find someone locally, she nd me a PM and I'll give you his information. He's been a gunsmith since 1971 and all the big box gun stores locally and the Ohio State Highway Patrol uses him, too.

You could probably send your revolver to him and get it back but any GOOD competent gunsmith can do it.

 

[medezyner]

Thanks for confirming jmclfrsh. I thought it was possible, but was looking for someone who actually did it. Please pm me his contact information. I may use him if the smith that I found doesn't give me a warm & fuzzy feeling in the competence department. A few quick questions: do you know what he tapped 6-48? Also, did he D&T one spot in front of the sight screw and 2 behind it? I think thats what is done, but I have no confirmation on this. BTW, I could not PM you, your mailbox is full.
Thanks for your help.