Proper way to remove S&W sideplate?

[Walkalong]

How does one safely remove a S&W sideplate without damaging anything. Thanks, AC

 

[SASS#23149]

I"ve read and been told that you turn the gun over,near a padded surface,and tap the opposited side with something like a plastic hammer,or maybe the butt of a plastic-handled screwdriver.
i know it will work..I"ve done it..but I prefer that things not fall out when I open up a gun.

 

[mxl]

Remove the grips, sideplate screws and with the sideplate up, tap the right side [upper side] of the butt area with something plastic or wood. I use the handle of a small wooden handled hammer. You may have to tap progressively harder to get the plate to jar loose. Don't tap the plate direct!

 

[HiWayMan]

mxl has it right.