Installing XS Sights on a J frame

[michaelrm]

Hi all,

I'm looking at installing an XS pinned front sight onto my 340PD. I know that I will need a drift to get the retention pin out, and a drill bit to open up the hole to install the XS sight retention pin. Anyone have the size of the pin and the drill bit. Have tried a number of searches on the forum with no luck (no hitting the right key words). If someone has the info, I sure would appreciate it!

Thanks

Mike

 

[gdogs]

Found this: http://smith-wessonforum.com/s-w-revolvers-1980-present/191466-sw640-front-sight-replacement.html

"Drill-bit size #54 (.054) and maybe start with punch .050 in size. Punch it out either way, as one drills the same size hole into the sight-tab from each side. One can use the same pin, if you are careful."

I can't speak to the accuracy of the bit size, it's just what was on that thread. Personally, I went to Harbor Freight and bought a set of the tiniest drill pits you've ever seen and found the one that fit through the roll pin hole. Required a slight amount of filing on the bottom of the sight to sit fully in the slot (nothing that will be seen once installed). Drilled half way on each side of the sight. Nothing to it.

 

[icemn]

Did mine a couple of weeks ago. Very simple. Used a small finish nail then a push pin to get the pin out. Don't use any pliers to pull it out as you will cause the pin to lose its shape. Next, lightly tap the front of the hi viz sight. I used a screw driver handle. Tapped it from muzzle to cylinder. It came right out. New one popped right in. Used a 1/16 drill with the sight in place. Drilled half from each side. Go slow. Reinstall pin.

 

[michaelrm]

NIce. Thanks for the info guys! I was under the impression that I would not be able to use the original pin, but it sounds like I will be using it. So, if that is the case, I take it that the drilling is for the new sight (don't have one in front of me yet).

Did either of you have to, or feel the need to put locktite or some for of assembly grease on the hidden portion of the new sight, or does it fit snuggly?

Thanks again for the info guys! I had XS big dot site on a PPS that I really liked. I think they willbe a perfect match for the 340PD.

Mike

 

[icemn]

I used no grease or loctite. Didn't need to. Fit perfectly.