Open sights: Also known as “iron sights,” these are sights that are typically pre-installed on a pistol. They could be a good option if you’re looking for something basic. Fiber-optic sights: These sights are made with fiber-optic material that soak up light, making them easy to see. They’re great if you plan on using your handgun during the day. Night sights: These sights are made with tritium or special photoluminescent paint that allows the sights to glow in the dark/at night. They’re an especially great choice if you carry a Glock.
The takedown lever is a set of rectangular levers that can be pushed down and back up. You can find them on either side of your handgun, towards the center of the weapon. Make sure that you’re pulling down both levers at once so the slide can come off easily. The exact disassembly procedure depends on the type of handgun you own. Search your gun’s model online and see if there’s a manual available.
The barrel should slide out easily after you remove the spring.
The stability of a bench block prevents you from accidentally damaging your handgun during the sight installation. You can also secure your slide in a padded table vise if you don’t have a universal bench block on hand. [4] X Research source
Aluminum and brass are softer than steel and won’t damage your weapon as you remove and install your sights. You can also use a nylon punch for this. The dovetail is the rectangular slot along the back of your slide. The rear sight snugly fits into it. Some pistol experts prefer using a sight pusher to remove their rear sight. To use one, just insert your gun slide into the sight pusher, lining up the old sight right next to the sight pusher block. Then, turn the T-handle to carefully push the sight out of the dovetail. [6] X Research source
Every rear sight has a pair of dots along the backside—they help you line up an accurate shot when combined with the single dot on the front sight. Squeeze a drop of gun oil into the dovetail groove if the sight isn’t going in easily. [9] X Research source
If you’re using a sight pusher, partially slip the new sight at least a third of the way into the dovetail. Then, secure the pistol slide in the device, right next to the sight pusher block. Turn the T-handle to nudge the new sight into the center of the dovetail. [11] X Research source
“Zeroing” your gun involves test shooting it and making sure that the handgun fires accurately. Bring your punch and tack hammer with you to the range so you can make further adjustments there. [13] X Research source
A front sight tool is designed specifically for pistols. The tip is hexagon-shaped, which makes it super easy to remove the screw.
Locktite comes in both red and blue varieties. Choose the semi-permanent blue Locktite if you plan on changing your sights later on, or the permanent red variety if you’d like something more long-lasting. [16] X Research source
Try to keep the front sight centered with your finger as you attach the screw.
Always practice safe firearm habits whenever you use your pistol.
