I just got through posting over in The Lounge how nice my Wheeler Precision night pusher is, then proceeded to replace the stock sights on my SP-2022 with the new set of Trijicons that I just got. The stock sights refuse to budge even one iota! I was applying so much pressure on the adjustment wheel that it was tilting the slide in the tool, despite it being locked down as tight as possible! Nothing...

Obviously my MGW for classic Sigs won't work on the SigPro, so now what? Other than taking it to a gunsmith and paying to have it done, what are my options for unsticking the stock sights? I've never had this issue before so I'm at a bit of a loss on how to proceed.

Thanks in advance!

Put the slide in a heavy duty vice with padded jaws. Hammer and punch time .

I’ve resorted to this method a lot over the years despite having the correct sight tool. Most XD pistol sights I’ve removed required the use of a steel punch and heavy hammer.

Good luck!

quote:

Originally posted by Chris Orndorff:
Put the slide in a heavy duty vice with padded jaws. Hammer and punch time .

I’ve resorted to this method a lot over the years despite having the correct sight tool. Most XD pistol sights I’ve removed required the use of a steel punch and heavy hammer.

Good luck!

I was afraid you were going to say something like that! I own neither a heavy vise or a workbench strong enough to mount one on. Also do not have a suitable brass punch, which of course I would buy if I had the other items!

Would heating the slide with a torch help any, or would I risk causing damage?

quote:

Originally posted by bronicabill:

Would heating the slide with a torch help any, or would I risk causing damage?

I wouldn't.....might try a heat gun, but I'm not optimistic.

When I get to this stage, I usually reach for my Dremel with a new cutting wheel. I very carefully cut the sight from one side to the other. As you might imagine, it ruins the sight...obviously a last resort. Go slow with frequent inspections. Points off if you cut your slide !

If not too late, adding to Chris' good advice. I suggest mounting the slide in the vise jaws so the sight is close to the vise and you can rest the hand that's holding the pin punch on the vise to keep it steady.

If the sight is to be reused, "color" it with pencil lead on the driving surface - especially if you are using a brass punch - this will allow you to clean up the sight later and will avoid the brass marking the sight.

Only hit the punch with the hammer one time, then make sure the punch is still centered and strike again - repeat. Never "wail away" at the punch with the hammer, lest things get out of position and do damage.

I haven't messed with it any further at this time due to health issues. My favorite indoor range has a gunsmith on site and I was going to contact them about removing the original sights for me (I'd rather install the new ones myself). Just haven't gotten a "round tuit" yet...