Novak Cut Front Sights with Post

General Firearms Handguns - 1911
1

So, it’s time to start changing out the Novak night sights on my 1911’s. My question is that most of the front sights on my pistols have a post that is presumably pinned into the slide? How is this removed, or do you just start tapping away with a brass punch?

Also, my replacement options are the Trijicon HD front with a 10-8 rear. However, the Novak cut Trijicon HD fronts do not appear to have this post. Do you guys recommend a dab of blue Loctite?

FWIW, I’ll be changing out the sights using my new MGW Pro Sight Pusher.

2

Remove the barrel and barrel bushing from the slide. Check and see if the hole goes all the way thru the slide, if it does, just drive out the pin with an appropriate sized punch.

When I installed HDs on one of my Novak cut slides I didn’t use any Loctite. It has never moved but it also wouldn’t be a bad idea to Loctite it.

3

It does indeed go through the slide. Logic would dictate that it is to be punched through from top to bottom?

4

Yes.

Going with orange or yellow HDs?

5

I think the only folks who blind pin front sights is Les Baer.

6

Orange. I’ve got orange HD’s or the similar Ameriglo iDots in all of my Glocks and M&Ps. Now, it’s time to bring my 1911s up to speed.

This is a Springfield TRP PRO.

7

Whether your pistol is a TRP or a Pro, Springfield uses a proprietary front sight. A Novak cut sight won’t work. Make sure you get a sight for a Springfield front dovetail. I would send the slide to Springfield or Alchemy.

8

Interesting. I thought that the PRO uses a standard Novak dovetail, but the sights that come with the pistol are fitted to blend into the slide. I’ll call Deb in the CS on Monday since some people on 1911forum are sending in their guns to get HD’s installed. Thanks for the heads-up.