S&W Model 65-3 Front Sight

[a5werkes]

Guys, like the title states I have a 1981 3"
Model 65 that I am considering changing out the front sight. It appears to have a tapered pin retention, installed left to right, as the left side diameter appears slightly larger than the right side.

Is this sight pinned and if so, punch out or drill out ?

Thanks

 

[BBBBill]

It is pinned and removal depends on what you are going to replace it with. I've cut transverse dovetails, milling off the sight in the process, without removing the pin. I've cut longitudinal slots for soldered in sights, leaving the pin as a hole filler. Punching it out is normal for removal/replacement of a stock type replacement. I believe that the end is just swaged slightly by the installation process, not tapered or larger on one end by design.

 

[a5werkes]

Thanks for your reply.

I have been looking for one in good shape and just got this gun. It is 98-99% and came with period correct Pachmayr grips and the original remainder of a box of ammo fired thru it ! I am planning on removing all the original parts, installing a bobbed hammer for DA-only, Hogue combat grip and a different sight (just because).

I was thinking Plan A removing the pin and replace the front sight with something along this style of fiberoptic; the half moon could be fitted and cross-drilled; I have
seen a few websites that have a good reputation for milling in a dovetail increasing the sight options, like XS sight system I have on some other revolvers. However, the milling option, Plan B, is crossing the proverbial Rubicon as far as keeping the gun original.

 

[Blue68f100]

I've added the acrylic color inserts into a couple of front sights. Not quite as good as the FO sight you posted but gives you color so you can pickup the front sight. Can be done with files but requires drilling very small holes in the front sight to help anchor the acrylic. You basically cut a dove tail with 2 small holes to lock it in.

 

[a5werkes]

^^^ Yes, Larry Potterfield @ Midway USA has a nice video how to fabricate an insert for the Baughman ramp sight.