Ever found yourself squinting down the barrel of your AR-15, wishing those fixed iron sights weren't in the way? You're not alone. Many enthusiasts, myself included, prefer a cleaner look or need to make room for optics. Removing iron sights, especially the fixed front sight on an AR-15, can seem daunting. But fear not. I've been down this road and am here to guide you through it. In this text, I'll break down the process into simple, manageable steps. Whether you're a seasoned modder or a novice, you'll find that with the right tools and a bit of patience, upgrading your AR-15 is not only possible but also incredibly rewarding. Let's jump into how to remove those iron sights and give your AR-15 the sleek, functional setup it deserves.

Key Takeaways

• Gather the Necessary Tools: Before starting the removal process, ensure you have a brass hammer, roll pin punches, a bench block, and painter’s tape to protect your firearm's finish. These tools are crucial for safely and effectively removing AR-15 iron sights, particularly the A2 front sight.
• Safely Secure the AR-15: It's paramount to securely fix your AR-15 in a vise with soft jaws before attempting to remove the iron sights. This prevents damage to the firearm and ensures precision during the removal steps.
• Follow a Step-by-Step Approach for Removal: Carefully removing the gas tube pin and taper pins is essential for detaching the iron sights. Utilize penetrating oil for stubborn pins and take your time to avoid damaging your AR-15. For detailed steps, resources like Brownells can offer guidance.
• Consider Replacement Options: After removing the iron sights, explore replacement options that align with your shooting needs and preferences. Brands like Ozark Armament offer a variety of high-quality iron sights, from Micro Flip Up Backup Sights to HK Style BUIS, tailoring to different shooting experiences.
• Clean and Inspect Post-Removal: Ensure all residue and potential damage from the removal process are addressed. This includes cleaning the firearm and inspecting for any wear or damage. Proper inspection and cleaning ensure the firearm remains in good condition and functional.
• Installation of New Sights: When choosing replacement sights, consider the specific requirements related to their installation. Incorrect installation can lead to issues down the line, so consulting the manufacturer's guidance or seeking professional advice is advisable.

Preparation

Before you tackle how to remove iron sights on an AR-15, gathering the right tools and setting up your workspace is crucial. Doing this not only ensures the process is more efficient but also minimizes the risk of damaging your firearm. The focus here will be particularly on the more challenging task of removing the A2 front sight, but these tips apply to removing any fixed iron sights.

First off, you'll need a few specific tools. A brass hammer and a set of roll pin punches are essential. The brass hammer helps apply the necessary force without damaging the metal surfaces, and the roll pin punches are indispensable for dealing with the pins found in AR-15 iron sights, especially the A2 front sight. Another helpful item is a bench block—this supports the barrel and sight, allowing for more accurate hits.

Once your tools are ready, it’s time to protect your gun’s finish. Even if you're extremely careful, slips can happen, so preparing the surface around the sight is important. I recommend using painter’s tape to shield the surrounding areas. This small step can prevent scratches or dings that might otherwise mar your AR-15's appearance.

The actual removal process starts with safely securing your AR-15. Make sure it’s unloaded, then fix it in a vise with soft jaws to prevent any damage to the barrel or finish. Positioning is key; the A2 front sight should be easily accessible without straining. For detailed guidance on positioning, Brownells provides a comprehensive Guide to AR-15 parts (https://www.brownells.com/), which I've found invaluable in the past.

For those considering replacements after removing their sights, Ozark Armament offers a wide variety of high-quality iron sights. From the classic Carry Handle Rear Sight to the modern Micro Flip Up Backup Sights, these options cater to different shooting needs and preferences. The HK Style BUIS and Battle Sights (BUIS) are particularly popular for their durability and ease of use. Browse through their selection to find the perfect fit for your AR-15.

In the next steps, I'll guide you through the specific techniques for removing an A2 front sight and other iron sights, but remember, patience and precision are your best friends throughout this process.

Step 1: Gathering the tools

When it comes to modifying your AR-15, whether it's how to remove the A2 front sight or replacing iron sights, the first step is always to gather the right tools. Let me share what I've found works best for these tasks, ensuring you're equipped for success without damaging your firearm.

First on my list is a brass hammer. The softer metal ensures that you can apply the necessary force without marring the finish of your gun. This tool is invaluable, especially when dealing with the delicate pins in your AR-15's sights.

Next, you'll need roll pin punches. Specifically designed for tasks like removing AR-15 iron sights, these punches allow you to drive out pins with precision and without damage. Ensure you have a variety of sizes, as pins can vary, especially between different sight models such as the A2 Front Sight or the various offerings from Ozark Armament like the Battle Sights (BUIS) or the HK Style BUIS.

A bench block is also crucial. Supporting your firearm securely while you work prevents sliding and unnecessary damage. It's also helpful in aligning your punches correctly, particularly when dealing with the stubborn pins of iron sights.

To protect your AR-15's finish further, don't forget painter's tape. It's great for covering areas around your work site, especially when dealing with solutions for blueing or removing parts prone to scratching.

While not a traditional tool, having a quality replacement sight ready, like those from Ozark Armament, can make your project more rewarding. Whether you're considering the sleek design of the Micro Flip Up Backup Sights or the tactical efficiency of the Fixed Canted Iron Sights, having your next upgrade on hand can be motivating.

For specific applications, such as how to remove AR-15 A2 front sight without a hitch, a bespoke front sight tool is beneficial. This specialized tool can simplify the process, making removal and installation smoother.

Finally, maintaining a clean workspace cannot be overstated. Keeping your tools organized and your area clear will not only save you time but also prevent accidental damage to your firearm.

Step 2: Disassembling the AR-15

When it comes to customizing my AR-15, how to remove iron sights on AR-15 stands out as a key skill for upgrading my shooting experience. Specifically, removing the A2 front sight is a task that requires precision and the right approach to ensure the integrity of my firearm isn't compromised.

First, it's essential to secure my AR-15 in a vise with the barrel pointing upwards, giving me clear access to the iron sights I intend to remove. It's critical to ensure that the firearm is unloaded and that I'm working in a well-lit, clean area to avoid any distractions or potential accidents.

Removing the A2 front sight involves several steps, starting with loosening and removing the gas tube pin. This small but crucial component requires a specific punch tool for removal. I always make sure to use a roll pin punch to avoid damaging the surrounding metal. If I'm not sure about the exact size or type of tool needed, I consult authoritative sources like Brownells for guidance. They offer a wealth of knowledge and the right tools for almost any firearm maintenance project.

Next, I focus on the twin taper pins holding the sight base to the barrel. These pins can be quite stubborn, so I apply penetrating oil to ease their removal. A few taps with a brass hammer and the appropriate punch can get things moving. It's here where patience pays off; I don't rush this process to avoid slipping and potentially marring the finish of my rifle.

After the gas tube and taper pins are removed, the A2 front sight can be slid off the barrel. For some AR-15 owners, this step opens up options for upgrading iron sights. Ozark Armament offers a variety of iron sights, including the Carry Handle Rear Sight and the versatile Battle Sights (BUIS) among others, that cater to different shooting preferences.

It's important to remember, while removing iron sights on my AR-15 might sound straightforward, the process requires careful attention to detail and the right tools. Always taking time to understand each step and having quality replacements like those offered by Ozark Armament can make upgrading my rifle both a rewarding and enhancing experience.

Step 3: Removing the rear iron sight

After tackling the A2 front sight removal, the next step in modifying my AR-15 was focusing on the rear iron sight. It's essential to approach this with precision to ensure that the functionality of the firearm remains intact while also prepping it for potential upgrades, such as those offered by Ozark Armament.

The rear sight on an AR-15can vary depending on the model and manufacturer. Typically, you'll encounter detachable sights or those integrated into a carry handle. Regardless of the type, the removal process requires attention to detail.

For Detachable Sights, the process is straightforward. These are usually affixed to the Picatinny rail via a locking mechanism or screws. I simply needed to loosen these with the appropriate screwdriver or Allen wrench. Once loosened, the sights slid off with minimal effort. For those considering replacements, options like the Battle Sights (BUIS) or Micro Flip Up Backup Sights from Ozark Armament can enhance your shooting experience.

When dealing with a Carry Handle Sight, integrated into the upper receiver, things got a bit trickier. This type often requires an Allen wrench or a flathead screwdriver to remove the securing bolts. It's vital to keep track of these bolts for reassembly or to ensure compatibility with any new sights. For upgrades, I found the Carry Handle Rear Sight from Ozark Armament to be a direct and efficient replacement, offering both reliability and precision.

Regardless of the type, once the rear iron sight was removed, I checked the area for any wear or damage. If necessary, I touched up any marks to maintain the AR-15's aesthetics and functionality.

Removing the rear iron sight paved the way for enhancements. With the array of options from Ozark Armament, like the HK Style BUIS or the innovative 45 Degree Flip Up Backup Sights, customizing my AR-15 to suit my specific shooting needs and preferences became an exhilarating process. Each model offered unique advantages, from rapid deployment to low-profile designs, ensuring that my firearm was not only accurate but also adapted to various shooting scenarios.

Step 4: Removing the front iron sight

After ensuring my AR-15 was safe and secure, I turned my attention to the front iron sight, specifically the A2 front sight. Several enthusiasts and experts agree that removing the A2 front sight on an AR-15 requires precision and patience. It's a critical step for those looking to upgrade their AR-15's sighting system, perhaps with a more modern solution like the Micro Flip Up Backup Sights or HK Style BUIS offered by Ozark Armament.

The process begins by locating the gas tube pin, which secures the gas tube to the front sight base. Removal of this pin is paramount for the gas tube to come free, a step that, while it sounds simple, demands careful attention to detail to avoid damaging the gas tube itself. In my experience, a good, short punch and a big hammer are essential tools for this task. Remember, there are tapered pins holding the sight in place, so everything should be supported on a block of wood, ideally on a cement surface, to absorb the shock.

The Direction of the Tapered Pins is another critical point to note. These pins don't come out just by wishful thinking. In my research, I found valuable insights on the direction in which the pins need to be punched out on Brownells. This site not only offers detailed guides but also a comprehensive selection of tools and supplies that might come in handy during this process.

Once the pins are out, the front sight base along with the gas tube should come off relatively easily, revealing the naked barrel ready to be fitted with a new sighting solution. For those looking to update their AR-15, Ozark Armament offers a wide array of options, including the popular Battle Sights (BUIS) or the more traditional but equally reliable A2 Rear Iron Sight.

To conclude, removing the front iron sight on an AR-15, while challenging, is a rewarding experience. It opens the door to numerous customization options, enhancing both the appearance and functionality of the rifle. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or a newcomer to the AR-15 community, the process provides an opportunity to deepen your understanding of your firearm and improve your marksmanship through better sighting options.

Step 5: Cleaning up and finishing touches

After successfully removing the iron sights on my AR-15, including the A2 front sight, the next step is ensuring everything is cleaned up and ready for either replacement sights or other modifications. This process is crucial for maintaining the quality and functionality of your firearm.

First off, I always make sure any residue left from the removal process, especially if we're talking about the stubborn A2 front sight, is thoroughly cleaned. This can include any metal filings, carbon buildup, or old adhesive that might have been used. A clean workspace translates into a clean firearm. For detailed cleaning, products like Hoppe's No. 9 Solvent come in handy, ensuring any residual grime is taken care of.

Next, it's time to inspect the areas where the iron sights were previously attached. I specifically look for any wear or damage that could've happened during the removal process. It's rare, but it can happen, especially with the tighter pins and fixtures related to how to remove AR-15 A2 front sight procedures. This examination helps avoid any surprises down the line, ensuring the firearm operates correctly and safely.

Once everything is cleaned and inspected, I consider what's next for my AR-15. If you're like me, you look for quality and reliability in replacement sights. Ozark Armament offers a range of options that cater to various shooting needs and preferences. Whether it's the Micro Flip Up Backup Sights for a low-profile option or the robust HK Style BUIS for rapid engagement, you can't go wrong. Each model provides distinct advantages, and I lean towards the A2 Rear Iron Sight for its traditional functionality and ease of use.

Finally, for anyone going through this process, make sure to familiarize yourself with any installation requirements specific to the replacement iron sights you choose. Missteps here can lead to unnecessary headaches. I always suggest taking a moment to visit the manufacturer's website or contacting their customer support for guidance. It's been my experience that getting it right the first time saves a ton of effort down the road.

In wrapping up the cleaning and inspection phase, the careful selection of replacement sights plays a pivotal role in the overall shooting experience. Each of Ozark Armament's options brings something unique to the table. It's worth taking the time to consider your needs and preferences before making a decision.

Wrapping Up

Removing iron sights from your AR-15, especially the A2 front sight, is a task that demands attention to detail and patience. I've walked you through the necessary steps, emphasizing the importance of the right tools and a methodical approach. Remember, the key is not to rush the process. Whether you're opting for Micro Flip Up Backup Sights or the HK Style BUIS by Ozark Armament, choosing high-quality replacements will significantly enhance your shooting experience. After removal, cleaning, and inspection, familiarizing yourself with the installation of your new sights will ensure a smooth transition. This upgrade not only improves accuracy but also opens up a world of customization for your AR-15, making it truly yours. Happy shooting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need specialized tools to remove the A2 front sight from my AR-15?

You will need some specific tools to safely remove the A2 front sight without damaging your AR-15. Gather a punch set, a hammer, and a block to support the sight during the removal process.

Is it possible to damage the gas tube when removing the A2 front sight?

Yes, there is a risk of damaging the gas tube if you're not careful. It's crucial to properly remove the gas tube pin without applying excessive force or using inappropriate tools which could bend or break the tube.

Can I replace my AR-15 iron sights with any aftermarket sight?

Not all aftermarket sights are compatible with every AR-15. When choosing replacements like the Micro Flip Up Backup Sights or HK Style BUIS from Ozark Armament, ensure they fit your specific model and meet your shooting needs.

What are the main benefits of upgrading my AR-15 iron sights?

Upgrading your iron sights can enhance accuracy, adaptability, and ensure better performance in various shooting scenarios. High-quality sights like those from Ozark Armament allow for easier target acquisition and improved reliability over standard sights.

After removing my iron sights, what should I pay attention to during cleanup?

Following the removal of your iron sights, inspect the area for any leftover debris or damage. Ensure the surface is clean and smooth before installing any new sights to avoid inaccuracies or installation issues.

How important is it to practice with iron sights on an AR-15?

Practicing with iron sights is crucial for improving shooting skills and ensuring you can aim accurately without relying solely on optics. It's recommended to familiarize yourself with using iron sights regularly at the range.

ARTICLE WRITTEN BY MATT RICE, OWNER OPERATOR OF OZARK ARMAMENT