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Best file for fitting 1911 dovetail front sight?

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July 09, 2023, 06:28 PM
Riley
Best file for fitting 1911 dovetail front sight?
Specifically a Springfield Operator. The original front was pinned and contoured and a royal pain to get out.

I need a good file to fit the front sight so it goes in without as much trouble so as not to damage the gun.



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July 09, 2023, 07:55 PM
sig operator
In my set of swiss needle files is one called a tapered barrette. Only cuts on one side triangle shaped. That is what I would start with.
July 11, 2023, 05:09 PM
jhe888
Is the dovetail the standard shape? Just file the bottom flat of the sight. Don't file the slide at all. This is easy, too - just old the sight to the file - it automatically stays flat. A tiny bit of filing goes a long way.



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July 13, 2023, 11:56 AM
Riley
Standard 60* dovetail fitting a 10-8 Performance front sight. I won’t touch the gun with the file.



Do not send me to a heaven where there are no dogs.
Step Up or Stand Aside: Support the Troops !
Expectations are premeditated disappointments.
July 23, 2023, 10:14 AM
Nipper
quote:
Originally posted by jhe888:
Is the dovetail the standard shape? Just file the bottom flat of the sight. Don't file the slide at all. This is easy, too - just old the sight to the file - it automatically stays flat. A tiny bit of filing goes a long way.

Yep. I've fitted half a dozen front sights using a stone (bottom flat), not a file. Slow and careful. Trial and error. You want a tight friction fit.


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