Installing Red Front Sight on a Smith and Wesson Model 15 Revolver | Smith & Wesson Revolver Project

Published on July 8, 2013
Duration: 2:52

This guide details the process of installing a red insert into the front sight of a Smith & Wesson Model 15 revolver to enhance visibility. The expert gunsmith, Larry Potterfield, methodically walks through measuring, cutting, preparing the surface, creating a mold, mixing and pouring resin, and finishing the sight. The procedure emphasizes precision and the use of common gunsmithing tools for a factory-like result.

Quick Summary

This expert gunsmithing guide details installing a red front sight insert on a Smith & Wesson Model 15. It involves precise measurement with calipers, cutting a dovetail slot using Nicholson files, preparing the surface with a center punch, and pouring a custom-mixed polyester casting resin. The resin cures for 24 hours before finishing for improved sight visibility.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Red Front Sight Installation
  2. 00:17Measurement and Layout
  3. 00:41Cutting the Slot
  4. 01:07Surface Preparation
  5. 01:18Setting up the Mold
  6. 01:31Mixing and Pouring Resin
  7. 02:27Finishing the Sight

Frequently Asked Questions

What tools are needed to install a red front sight insert on a Smith & Wesson Model 15?

You'll need precision tools like Starrett digital calipers and Nicholson files, along with a triangular file, center punch, vice grips, brass shims, masking tape, and finishing tools like a small file or sharp knife. Polyester casting resin and pigments are also required.

How do you prepare the front sight for a red insert?

First, measure the desired insert size. Then, use Nicholson files to cut a slot to the correct depth and shape it into a dovetail. Dimple the slot's surface with a center punch for better resin adhesion.

What type of resin is used for the front sight insert?

Clear polyester casting resin is used. It's mixed with red and yellow pigments to achieve a specific hue and a hardener is added to facilitate the curing process.

How long does the resin need to cure?

The polyester casting resin typically needs to cure for 24 hours after being poured into the prepared front sight slot. After curing, excess material can be trimmed.

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