How to Remove an SKS Front Sight

The SKS is a popular rifle platform for hunters and firearms enthusiasts. The SKS is a military rifle created by Russia in 1946, according to HK94.com. Many surplus models are available today. Since the rifles are military surplus, however, many of them require some work before they can be effectively used. If the front sight on your SKS is damaged or needs to be replaced for a different reason, the first step is to remove the SKS front sight.

Things You'll Need

  • Vise
  • Towel
  • SKS sight adjustment tool
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Instructions

    • 1

      Unload your SKS and make sure that there is not a round in the chamber. If your SKS uses magazines, remove the magazine. Engage the safety of the rifle. Ensure that the rifle is pointed in a safe direction during this step.

    • 2

      Wrap the barrel of the SKS in an old towel. This will help to ensure that you don't scratch the barrel of the rifle when clamping it down. Place the rifle in the vise so that the front sight is pointing up, and tighten the vise onto the barrel of the rifle slightly behind the muzzle.

    • 3

      Use a standard SKS sight adjustment tool to unscrew the front sight. According to SurplusRifle.com, "The original front sight of the SKS is a threaded post that is screwed into a windage drum." Apply a small amount of gun oil if the sight is difficult to turn. If you have lost your sight adjustment tool or your rifle did not come with one, they are available from most any gun store dealing in military surplus rifles.

    • 4

      Remove the front sight from the windage drum once it is fully unscrewed.