removing front sight

[rspar]

So I got a relatively inexpensive Sig Red dot sight which I really like love the auto on feature. Anyway I have what I call a milspec A2 front sight which is in the way. I've looked at a video or two on removing it both mention being careful not to ruin the barrel which puts me off a little. Not to mention the cost of a flip up front gas block sights. Any thoughts? Is removing mine easier than I think? Is there another option?

[m16]

It’s not hard if you have the right tools.

The pins that hold the sight base to the barrel are tapered so you want to tap them out by hitting the smaller ends.

Use the heaviest hammer you have and avoid tapping them over and over, if you mushroom the pins they will be really hard to get out.

Use a hard backing, don’t use wood or anything soft.

[rspar]

Thx, funny thing one of the video's I watched the guy used a piece of wood for backing and tapped them several times.

[m16]

I see that a lot.

Wood is pretty much the worst thing you can use because it absorbs a lot of the blow.

I’ve had them come out with one hard smack using a mini sledge and a steel block as a backing.

[hermosabeach]

Many prefer to have the lower 1/3rd co-witness.


Dot just above the front sight post.


Sig is not a crazy durable optic and batteries die. Any reason to remove the front sight?

[wurger]

Who made your rifle? If that started as a M&P Sport, good luck getting that front assembly off without cutting.

If the pins don't easily punch out, there is adhesive in there. Maybe try heating it up first.

[Mr. Blue]

I use my A2 to co-witness with my Sig Romeo 5, works well.

[alpha_romeo_XV]

The pins are taper so they go in one direction and out another. Normally they go out from left to right, but some manufacturers don't follow that. Imagine trying to punch out the wrong way and just driving them tighter.
Have you picked out which new gas block you want to replace with? Make sure its long enough to cover the forward taper hole in the barrel. You can always use a dremel and cut the existing A2 off if needed.

[akjunkie]

So I got a relatively inexpensive Sig Red dot sight which I really like love the auto on feature. Anyway I have what I call a milspec A2 front sight which is in the way. I've looked at a video or two on removing it both mention being careful not to ruin the barrel which puts me off a little. Not to mention the cost of a flip up front gas block sights. Any thoughts? Is removing mine easier than I think? Is there another option?

You in LA? Take it to Randall.

https://www.ar15barrels.com

[rspar]

Yeah I think I will take it to Randall I gave it a weak try and they didn't budge. It's a light weight simple rifle and it's my favorite.

[enorbit3]

Have u tried using the lower 1/3 mount height? Less clutter and may work for you. Worth a shot before you start monkeying with the FSP

[triggs75]

If it fires great, proper gas going through for a good cycle, I would just chop off / shave down the front sight leaving the bottom half on the barrel as your gas block. I did and it worked great.

[ScottsBad]

I've done 4 or 5 of them, but if you have a pro around that will do it, that's the better way to go. He'll have the tools and experience to do it right. And if you don't have many tools it could save you money.

BTW if you are putting a new rail on, give Randall the barrel nut and he'll be able to assemble the upper at the same time. One less thing to worry about.

[rspar]

Thx I'm going to put on a flip up front sight so I can have both. No front rail I like the light weight plastic grip. I'd use a plastic sight if I could find one, really my eyes aren't that good anymore for distance so it doesn't matter weight is more important now.

[FeuerFrei]

Here's the cheater for removing the FSB. Make sure to use the correct size punch and a
good heavy hammer. I've used mine many times over the years as well as lending it out to friends.

https://www.midsouthshooterssupply.com/item/00048080000252ac/ar-15m16-front-sight-bench-block