Model 19 K Frame - Pin removal and sight removal help

[saveaux]

Hi guys, I'd like to replace the factory sights on my 19-3 to fiber optic sights. This is something that I think I'm completely capable of doing, I'm just not sure of the proper way to go about it. I'm going to ask alot here but, here goes:

What size pin remover will I need for the front sight, and any recommendations on where to buy this?

Could anyone tell me step by step how I need to go about about removing and reinstalling the front pin? How would I prevent the pin removal tool from slipping off the head of the pin and scratching the gun? Will the act of removing the pin damage it, therfore I should buy a new one? How exactly do I remove and replace the rear sights?

Does anyone have any pictures of their model 19 that has optic sights?

Thank you so much for your brilliance!

 

[Hillbilly77]

I don't have any advice to offer about the removal or installation of the front sight blade, other than if you're not sure, have a gunsmith do it.

One piece of advice that I do have is to make sure you get the correct height replacement sight. If you get the wrong height, you won't be able to zero your elevation adjustment.

 

[saveaux]

I saw that the replacement rear sight blades come in a variety of sizes. I'm uncertain what size mine is. Is there any sort of chart that I may be able to see to determine what size mine is? Thank you so much for the heads up on that. I'm so glad that you pointed that out!

 

[turnejm]

Front Sight Removal/Replacement

saveaux,

A link that might be of help...

http://smith-wessonforum.com/s-w-re...296242-just-installed-sdm-gold-dot-sight.html

 

[Neumann]

You need a 0.05" pin punch, which you can order from Brownells. Be aware that the front blade is a force fit, which will require a vice to remove. The hole in the blade is drilled after installation, so you will never be able to replace the original. In short, do it as a last resort.

The rear blade is easy to remove and replace. The screw is staked, and must be broken to remove it. You will need to modify a screwdriver to install a new one. Notch the tip with a Dremel tool to fit around the screw shaft. Stake the new screw with a center punch when the nut is tight.

There is an extremely tiny spring and plug in the screw head, which serves as a detent inside the hexagonal hole. Watch where they land, you will need them again

 

[saveaux]

Thank you all for your incredibly helpful responses. I have yet another question....

After I punch out the pin at the front sight how do I remove the sight assuming the gun will be in a vice?

 

[Neumann]

Clamp the blade in a padded vice, and use the gun as a lever to pry it out of the barrel. It doesn't take a lot of force, but requires more traction than you can get on the blade with pliers. You will probably have to press the new sight in with the vice. The tab is shorter than the slot, so the longitudinal position may vary. Once in place, level it and drill through the hole in the ramp with a drill press, and replace the pin. I set the stop so it wouldn't drill through the other side of the ramp. The drill size specified by S&W (#51?) is slightly undersized, so you won't enlarge the ramp hole if you're careful.

 

[saveaux]

Thank you so much. I'm going to order sights today and then post pics of before and after. I just bought my dads 35 year old Model 19-3 6"barrel that's only been shot 5 times since he bought it new. He had it sitting in a case in his closet this entire time. Its a beautiful piece of work.

 

[linde]

I saw that the replacement rear sight blades come in a variety of sizes. I'm uncertain what size mine is. Is there any sort of chart that I may be able to see to determine what size mine is? Thank you so much for the heads up on that. I'm so glad that you pointed that out!

You are correct . . . the rear blade comes in several sizes. For your 19-3, all barrel lengths show a factory .146" height. The key . . . as Hillbilly 77 points out . . . is to match the rear blade with the height of your new front sight.

Russ

 

[Bearbait in NM]

I hope the link works.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HJ6Hb89lVXw

On Youtube, Larry Potterfield of Midway USA has a series of videos on S&W revolver "stuff'. The link is only one of a series, and he does have a video of the sight replacement process, front and rear for S&W. Might have to search a bit. They tend to be plugs for his wares, but they are well made, clear, good sound and easy to understand.


Craig

 

[jkmo]

Don't do it. It's a classic. Buy some other revolver and do it.

 

[jkmo]

I just read you bought it from your Dad and it's only been shot 5 times!!!! DON'T DO IT!!!