BudsGunShop.com - Changing S&W front sight

Sight removal tool will not work it has no dovetail like a conventional front sight.

If you are concerned about damaging the revolver, I would suggest you take it to a gunsmith. They have the proper tools (and experience) to remove and replace the sight. They will also align it properly to the centerline of barrel. If you want to do it yourself, I would suggest buying a sight removal tool. The first two sights I changed out, I used the :tried & true" hammer and brass punch method. It worked, but it was not a clean install to say the least. I eventually purchased a universal sight removal (it installs too) tool. If you are not going to change out a lot of sights, paying a gunsmith $25 to $35 (average) is cheaper and safer way to go.

The original sight is installed in the slot then the hole is drilled which sometimes leaves a burr that will stick the sight. It should tap out but the burr may require a bit more effort to shear off. The bottom of the sight is curved so just tap front to back and it should lift out. The last one I installed was years ago but I believe that the new sight may not have a hole in it either and must be drilled after you tap it in. If so be careful that the drill doesn't move the new sight. You can use a little c-clamp (taped so it doesn't mar the sight) to hold it down.