Took my 24/47 out today and shot it for the first time. Kicked the hell out of me! Actually it wouldn't have been so bad but I had rotator cuff surgery on the off shoulder mid January. Still off work and will probably be for another 6+ weeks. Shot sitting at a picnic table at the range with both elbows on the table. Just about dropped the rifle. Didn't think the recoil was that bad, but it REALLY jarred my other shoulder. Brought tears to my eyes. I took it back out later and shot off bags. Now that was manageable. Shot a 3 1/2" group. Real happy considering the shoulder, don't know anything about the surplus ammo I picked up to shoot, and it being the first time I've shot it. Anyway, my question. It's shooting to the left. Whats the best way to get the site hood off without scratching everything to drift the front site over? Thanks. Greg

Thge best, and easiest way, is with a pair of external snap ring pliers. If you don't know what they are just go to your local hardware store. They'll know.

They work opposite of regular pliers. When you squeeze the handles the tips spread.

Here's an inexpensive pair Sears sells.