Problem of the front sight of an old Hi Power

[jlnjca]

Just received an E series.

It in overall good condition with one problem: the front sight.

The normal front sight is like a half circle shape. The one I received, the top of the half circle is kind of flat for whatever reason. I attached pics for both good and the problematic front sights.

My questions to your expert:

1. Does it impact the accuracy of the pistol?

2. Does it de-value the pistol from collector's perspective?

3. Can this type of front sight be changed at all?

4. Would you suggest I request exchange or refund from the seller?

Thanks a lot for your input.

 

[somd_mustangs]

It may have been flattened on purpose to get it to shoot on point.
If it was neatly done I don't think it's a big deal value-wise, what kind of hi-power?
If it's like the 1911 it's a "tenon" that's staked in place, it can be replaced but not easily.

 

[jlnjca]

It is an E series. Supposed manufactured in the 1950s for British contract.
The flattening looks neatly done.

The attached is the picture of the front sight from the top. I guess it is staked in place.

It may have been flattened on purpose to get it to shoot on point.
If it was neatly done I don't think it's a big deal value-wise, what kind of hi-power?
If it's like the 1911 it's a "tenon" that's staked in place, it can be replaced but not easily.

 

[Doctor_M]

I'd say to fire it and see where the point of aim is.... I agree that it was probably done to zero it in at a preferred distance.

I don't think this will impact value much if at all.

 

[jlnjca]

Thanks.

I guess for a flattened front sight, it should be altered for a point of aim at a longer distance?

I'd say to fire it and see where the point of aim is.... I agree that it was probably done to zero it in at a preferred distance.

I don't think this will impact value much if at all.

 

[jlnjca]

Forgot to mention that inside the frame it seems there is rust as shown in the attached pictures. I know the rust can be cleaned but is it a big problem long term?

 

[photoracer]

Use Eezox to both get the rust out and protect it from further rusting. I know Hafer's carries it, but not sure about other places.

 

[Threeband]

Post more pictures!
That looks in good shape for 60 years old. Refinish?

 

[mopar92]

If it bothers you a bunch PM me a price, thats C&R and I've been lazy about my HQL.

 

[somd_mustangs]

That looks more like it was milled out of the slide.
My "youngest" is a late-war German with fixed sights, but it's buried in the back of the safe.
Not sure it would be representative anyway.

I can't remember if the HP's were sighted for a 6-oclock hold, if so maybe a previous owner wanted it to overlay instead.
No biggee, it's a very nice looking pistol.

 

[jlnjca]

Here are the pics I received from the seller. From these pictures I did not pay attention to the front sight. These pictures kind exaggerate the light/tiny scratches on this pistol. When I received it today, I was so happy about the pistol before I found the front sight problem.

As you said, it looks really good. I personally don't think it has been re-finished but I could be wrong. What is your thought based on these pictures?

Post more pictures!
That looks in good shape for 60 years old. Refinish?

 

[jlnjca]

Thanks for your thoughts. I guess I have to adjust my way of aiming when I switch from this BHP to another with non-milled front sight?

That looks more like it was milled out of the slide.
My "youngest" is a late-war German with fixed sights, but it's buried in the back of the safe.
Not sure it would be representative anyway.

I can't remember if the HP's were sighted for a 6-oclock hold, if so maybe a previous owner wanted it to overlay instead.
No biggee, it's a very nice looking pistol.

 

[somd_mustangs]

or build it back up with a dollop of solder
shoot it first and see what it does.

 

[Threeband]

That thing looks beautiful.

Obviously it's led a very, very boring existence tucked away in a drawer somewhere, rather than engaging in thriling acts of daring-do.

I don't think I'd worry about the sight, but you need to shoot it and see where it hits for you. You might even end up filing a little more off it.

 

[Mark75H]

I'd buy a spare extractor while they are available and not worry about the sight

 

[jlnjca]

Where you suggest to buy the internal extractor? Cannot find any on gunbroker.com

I'd buy a spare extractor while they are available and not worry about the sight

 

[jlnjca]

PM sent

If it bothers you a bunch PM me a price, thats C&R and I've been lazy about my HQL.

 

[Mark75H]

Where you suggest to buy the internal extractor? Cannot find any on gunbroker.com

The ONLY source right now is Jack First 605-343-9544

They make a lot of obsolete gun parts; a major aftermarket place. Phone orders only.

 

[Threeband]

The ONLY source right now is Jack First 605-343-9544

They make a lot of obsolete gun parts; a major aftermarket place. Phone orders only.

Thanks for the reminder. Mine is on the way this afternoon.

Sticker shock: total cost with "shipping and insurance" is $101.90.

 

[Mark75H]

Thanks for the reminder. Mine is on the way this afternoon.

Sticker shock: total cost with "shipping and insurance" is $101.90.

When you are the ONLY manufacturer of something ... you set the price. Good thing is ... they know how to make gun parts.