Removing Tritium Insert

[BWB]

Have to make a higher front sight for a 1911. The old one has a tritium insert. Is there a way to remove the insert intact so I can use it in the new sight? I don't mind destroying the original if necessary.

 

[Maelstrom]

I was checking into this as well. I was planning on getting a set of Sig sights from CDNN or someone and drilling my Mossberg front sight to put the Tritium in there.

Best I could tell you most likely have to actually cut the sight from around the lamp to get it out, since I think they're epoxied in place.

 

[Owen]

the ampule is glass, so good luck.

AFAIK, if you call trijicon, meprolight etc, they will tell you the hole dimensions you need to drill. They will then install the ampule for you.

Then again, I was doing this for a business. I don't know if they will work with an individual to do this.

 

[highorder]

If you want tritium vials, they are available for a few dollars.

The flashlight community deals in them regularly.

Start here:
http://www.cpfmarketplace.com/mp/showthread.php?t=170374

 

[rcmodel]

They will then install the ampule for you.

No they won't. Meprolite at least.

Meprolite/Kimber told me they will not repair sights about a year ago.
The sights are made in Israel, I think, and Kimber doesn't have NRC licensing to replace Tritium vials in the U.S..

Warrenty work is done by replacing the sight with a new one.

Out-of-warrenty work is, you buy a new set of sights.

Is there a way to remove the insert intact so I can use it in the new sight?

I would try a heatgun.
The epoxy will release if you get it hot enough.
Hopefully, that is before the Tritium vial explodes!

rc

 

[RogersPrecision]

I've had good luck with a protracted (48 hours) soak in acetone.
Tool-Tech will drill and install but watch-out for their high prices and ridiculous shipping fees.

 

[rcmodel]

+1

I contacted them about replacing the vials on my old Mep target sights.

It cost more then a new set of sights.

rc