642 Front sight....

[JLB0714]

I'm new to the forum, I've looked for a while and now just joined. For all the knowledge I've seen in here, I'd like to ask if anyone has ( or can be done ) installed a front sight colored insert? I've considered doing a bit of painting on the sight, but would rather have a professional looking sight. I've considered the laser grips, but they're soooo expensive. If anyone has any pointers or advice that would be great. Thanks.....

 

[Brian Williams]

Yes, you can get an insert put into a 642, Most competent gunsmiths should be able to. Check with some local shops as to who is a good smith around your location.

I personally do not like inserts and paint most of my front sights with orange construction marking paint. It is flat and therefor does not cause reflections or highlights to throw my aim off. It is also easy to remove if needed.

 

[ThomasT]

If you use paint be sure and put a base coat of white on first. This makes the top coat brighter. A round toothpick makes a good paint brush and keeps you from getting the paint on the sides of the sight. If you put on too much paint just roll the toothpick up the sight to pick up the extra paint.

I do this myself and it last for years. I use the acrylic testors model paints that are water based when wet. They wipe off if you screw up. I buy them at Hobby Lobby for a buck a bottle.

 

[JLB0714]

Thanks for help, I may try to paint it first ( it's cheaper...). If I don't like it, I can always go back to the inserts. Thanks again....

 

[Brian Williams]

You do not have to put a base coat of white under the flat orange construction marker paint. It works great by itself.

 

[ThomasT]

Hello Brian,

I've never seen construction marker paint. Where do you buy it and what does it cost? Of coarse i will have to buy some and try it. Nothing beats a new trick.

 

[Brian Williams]

Find most any construction site and go ask the guys if there is a partial can laying around. Most good construction supply companies will have it. I have a large spray can that I still have since I quit working construction in 95.

 

[Harvster]

Check the big building supply stores. Most have pavement marking paint in the bright colors along with the rest of the spray paint.

 

[JLB0714]

Brian,
Thanks for the tip on the construction paint. I tried it, and it looks really good. I actually found it at Wal-mart. I did do the white primer coat first, then topped it all off with some modeling clear coat. Using a reeeeally small modeling brush. Don't have pics yet, she's still drying..... Thanks again.

 

[electrode1998]

Hey JLB,
I would like to see those pics too. I am looking at doing the same to my 642. Post them here or on the 642partdeaux club site.
e'trode