There are a few reasons why you may need to remove the rear sights on your rifle or firearm:

Improving Accuracy

You may want to upgrade to a scope or optical sighting system. The rear open sights may need to be removed to allow installation of a scope mount. Removing the sights provides an unobstructed view through the scope.

Installing Scope

If adding a scope for hunting or target shooting, the open iron sights will be redundant and need removal. Scopes provide enhanced accuracy at longer ranges compared to open sights.

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Cleaning/Maintenance

Over time gun powder, grime and rust can build up around the sight. Removing it allows full access to clean the dovetail mount underneath.

Tools Needed

Proper tools make sight removal much easier and prevent damage. Useful tools include:

Hammer

A light hammer or mallet helps jar sights loose that are tightly wedged or have Loctite applied.

Punch

A basic punch set allows precise application of force. Brass punches prevent marring.

Vise

Securing the rifle stock in a padded vise holds it steady while tapping out sights.

Eye Protection

Always wear protective glasses when using hammers/punches near soft rifle materials.

Removing Standard Sights

Standard iron sights typically utilize a friction fit or screw fasteners. Here are two common removal methods:

Impact Method

The basic approach is to firmly tap/drift the sight in the opposite direction it was inserted.

Start with light controlled taps, increasing force as needed. Use a brass or polymer punch to prevent damaging the sight or dovetail. Apply penetrating oil if the sight is stuck, allowing it to soak 15-20 minutes before retrying.

Screw Method

Target style sights and some rugged combat sights utilize screws to hold elevation and windage adjustments:

Locating Screws

Carefully examine the sight for tiny screws on the sides or bottom. These are secured using threads cut into the sight base or dovetail itself.

Unscrewing

Use a properly sized screwdriver to back screws out. If still stuck, apply penetrating oil around the edges and let sit before trying again.

Removing Target Sights

High end target sights are designed for maximum stability and accuracy. Removing them requires a few special considerations:

Locating Screws

Like standard sights, target sights have small adjustment screws. But they often use 2-3 screws per side fitted flush for minimal snagging.

Use a flashlight at an angle to highlight the seam lines of any flush screws.

Unscrewing

The screws are threaded directly into the dovetail or utilize nuts embedded in the sight base. Back them out slowly checking tension – some have Loctite applied.

Dealing with Loctite

If screws won’t budge due to Loctite adhesive, apply heat using a soldering iron near the screw head. This helps soften the Loctite allowing screw removal.

Dovetail Dimensions

Measuring dovetail dimensions help determine what replacement sights will fit:

Metric Measurements

Use calipers to precisely measure dovetail height, width at the top and bottom portions in millimeters. This metric data allows finding sights specifically made for that dovetail size.

Standard Measurements

Some dovetail cuts are defined in fractions of inches rather than metric (e.g. 3/8″ or 1/2″). Use a ruler with both standards to determine size.

Preparing for New Sights

With old sights removed its a good idea to prep the dovetail before installation:

Cleaning Dovetail

Use a cotton swab soaked in solvent to remove oil, dirt and debris from dovetail. Compressed air can help blow out any stubborn particles stuck inside.

Checking Dimensions

Re-measure and verify dovetail dimensions match the replacement sights you plan to install. Even slight inconsistencies can impede proper sight seating.

Installing New Sights

Here are some tips for correctly mounting replacement sights:

Adjusting Windage and Elevation

Prior to fully tightening, use the adjustment knobs to center windage and elevation. This ensures alignment with barrel sight picture before locking down.

Securing New Sights

Gradually tighten any fastener screws using an alternating opposing pattern to evenly distribute force. Or firmly tap sights flush into friction fit slots using soft tip punches.

Verify Functionality

Before relying on new sights its critical to test them under live fire:

Test Firing

Safely fire several rounds at a target allowing recoil to help seat sights. Visually check sights remained centered and firmly in place.

Ensure Accuracy

Aim deliberately at a bullseye target requiring pinpoint precision at long range. This confirms proper windage/elevation alignment and maintains accuracy.

Safety Considerations

Working with firearms requires safe handling procedures:

Eye Protection

Always wear ANSI approved impact resistant glasses to protect eyes from flying debris, oil and gun powder.

Controlled Tests

Conduct firing tests at a designated outdoor range with adequate backstop berm. Ensure firearm is mechanically sound and cleaned before loading ammunition.

Conclusion

Successfully removing and installing dovetail sights requires proper tools, measurements and fitting technique. But with some mechanical aptitude its a doable project providing pleasing results. Just be sure to safely test new sight alignment confirming accuracy and reliability.

FAQs

What size punch should I use for tapping out rear sights?
Start with a brass or nylon punch close to the width of the sight blade to evenly transfer force. Avoid using a punch that spans beyond the base touching the dovetail sides.

Can I reuse old sight screws for the new sights?
Only use original screws if they are in near perfect condition. New sights often come with specific screws that best fit that model.

What should I use to clean the old sticky grease out of dovetail?
High strength solvents like brake cleaner work well to cut stubborn accumulations of dirt and oil residue. Use a cotton swab dipped in solvent for precise application.

My new sights don’t align perfectly with barrel. What should I adjust?
Use the individual windage and elevation knobs to mechanically center the sights relative to bore. Don’t secure them until properly aligned.

How do I confirm sights are still accurate after installation?
Shoot groups of 3 rounds at a small distant target requiring precision aim. If grouping is still tight, the sights are likely aligned correctly. Try shooting at 100 & 200 yards.