I see there is a special block to remove and press in a new front sight tower. Are they that difficult to remove? Can it be done without the special tool?

Thanks

They can be a pain depending on how tightly they are on there

They are also pretty thin right through where the pin would attach

Ive broken more than one getting them on and off

On a related, but also unrelated note:

I dropped my SP5 climbing up a ladder during a sub gun match. It landed on concrete exactly on the top of the front sight tower (about 2:00 and left a nasty gash)

Are these things on there pretty solid? I can't detect any play, but wanted to make sure there's no functional damage.

First you have to remove the sling pin. That may be peened or welded. You can grind that out with a Dremil or mount it in a mill and drill or mill the end of it off. You may be able to reuse it if you weld it back in, if you have to peen it, plan on buying a new one.

An arbor press and press plates are next. You can jury rig a plate, make one, or buy one. Here is a link to the plate:
RobertRTG.com
Pretty easy to make if you have a mill.

It is not a real tight press fit, the barrel has a radial knurl so pressing just cuts those radial grooves into the sight tower. Pressing one in is harder than pressing one out. Be sure to make witness marks before removing.

Let me know if I can answer any other questions.

Thanks for the advice. Think I’ll pass on removing it!