Warning

 

Close
Confirm Action

Are you sure you wish to do this?

Cancel Confirm
AR15.COM
AR Sponsor
6/1/2013 7:51:59 PM EDT
I am trying to install a free float rail and having trouble with the front sight removal. I've soaked the pins in PB blaster and have been using a punch and hammer but no luck. I do have the the barrel facing to the left which should be the correct side to punch out.



Any recommendations on what else to try? I'm about to just take it to a gunsmith and ask him to punch them out for me.
6/1/2013 8:10:34 PM EDT
[#1]
An FSB installed before parking the barrel is a bitch to remove.
BEAT on it with a punch and hammer.
You can try heat and cold too, but brute force has to break the chemical bond.
6/1/2013 8:12:34 PM EDT
[#2]
What does your hammer look like?
6/1/2013 8:20:36 PM EDT
[#3]
I've just been using a regular hammer.



So just beat the hell out of it? I've felt like I have been doing that but it's not budging at all.
6/1/2013 8:29:35 PM EDT
[#4]
Use a mini sledge.
6/1/2013 9:31:11 PM EDT
[#5]
Get a concave tip punch so it doesn't slip off the pin as easy.   Set up the upper so it does not bounce when you hit it.  I use a piece of 2x4 on a sturdy workbench or have used it on a concrete floor for a really stubborn one.   Hit it hard and it will move.  If it has taper pins make sure you are hitting the small end.
6/2/2013 12:51:14 AM EDT
[#6]
My experience is PB Blaster sucks as a penetrating oil.  Kroil is the way to go.  Did you happen to measure the pin heads on both sides?  Do they happen to be the same?  My LMT pins weren't tapered and they were really hard to get out.
6/2/2013 3:06:53 AM EDT
[#7]
First I put a drop of oil on each pin and let it sit overnight.  I use nail setters instead of normal punches, they hold up better and a small sledge hammer.
6/2/2013 9:04:23 AM EDT
[#8]
Just have a couple drinks and start hammering until something moves
6/2/2013 3:59:09 PM EDT
[#9]
The FSB MUST be supported on a very solid surface like a heavy vice on a solid workbench or a concrete floor.  Any give in your supporting surface will only transfer the force into that surface instead of the heavy punch and tapered pin.  Make sure you are hitting the small diameter end of the pin.  This is usually the left side as viewed from the rear looking forward towards the muzzle.
AR Sponsor