S&W Model 659 - Can you replace the front sight?

[Headless]

I took my S&W 659 to the local gunsmith (who I have no experience with before now) to see if he could replace the existing sights (fixed) with night sights (preferably adjustable, though i was not too optimistic about that). The existing rear sight had come loose and since I'd have to take it in anyway to get it re-sighted and tightened up, I decided it'd be nice to have some glowing sights as I keep this gun close at hand while I sleep. After ~ 6 weeks waiting, I called them up and was informed that the front sight cannot be replaced because the sight blade is machined from the frame of the gun. Is it really impossible to replace the sights on this gun? Or is this a case of an amateur gunsmith not knowing how? Any input would be welcome. If the front sight truly is not replaceable, perhaps I can find some good glow in the dark sight paint to use.

 

[isp2605]

The front sight is machined and is part of the slide. It's not pinned nor does it just drive out. They can be ground off, a dovetail machined in the slide, and a new front sight installed. Just depends on how much money you want to spend.

 

[Headless]

Any idea what kind of money I would be looking at? Is it possible that the slide be too thin to be machined in the way you describe, or is it a sure thing that this process could be done? I love my 659; it might be worth the $ if it's not as much as the gun cost me

 

[isp2605]

Don't know the cost. Will depend on whatever the gunsmith wants to charge and the type of front sight you want installed.
The slide won't be too thin. A dovetail cuts a notch in the top of the slide and a dovetail from sight slides in. 3rd gen S&Ws use that type of set up with the dovetail.
I'm sure it can be done. Seen a few done that way.