What size punch to remove Redhawk rear sight?

[Buck13]

A while back I bought a Weigatinny rail to put on my original model Redhawk .43 Magnum. I didn't rush to install it, and it finally occurred to me when I looked at it last night that I would need a pin punch to remove the rear sight pivot pin. Not the kind of tool I have a full set of. What size punch is needed for this pin?

After removal, does the pin typically survive well for reuse if/when I get tired of optics on the Redhawk? Kinda wishing I'd explored the option of sending it to Ruger to get Hunter-style scope mount indents machined into the barrel rib. Or is that even an option with the original barrel?

 

[BobWright]

As I recall its a 1/16" dia. pin punch. I've seen them at Ace Hardware, have a few in my tool kit, as they get bent pretty easily. But the pin does survive very well, however I choose to relace them with tension pins (Also called roll pins or split pins) as thses stay put much better. I bought an assortment f differfent length pins as Browning .22 pistols have the 1/4" lenght to hold in the front sight. Having these on hand has been handy for me at times.

Bob Wright

P.S. Inserting a 1/4" long pin really gets interesting at times!

 

[41 Mag]

I've never had to actually "punch" that pin out. The spring tension from under the sight helps to hold it in place. I've just used a jeweler's type screw driver and pushed them right out.

Just make sure you have your thumb over the sight so you keep control of the springs once you release that pin. They are small and can disappear instantly.