Colt DS "red" ramp front sight?

[TacDoc]

I’m considering a late model Colt Detective Special as my new addition to the stable. This wheel gun has a “red” ramp front sight.

Is this a painted segment over the metal sight or a plastic insert? If painted, may it be easily removed and repainted if needed?

Pics will be greatly appreciated.

Regards,

TD

[jim fox]

I'm not nearly as knowledgeable about Colts as Dframe, but I've never heard of Colt offering a "red ramp" front sight on the Detective Special - or any of the other similar guns on the same frame.

If the "red ramp" is non-factory, then it is probably paint, although someone could have machined the front sight out for an insert, or even added on a whole new front sight.

[Dframe]

I believe Jim Fox is right. I know of no factory red insert front sights on the detective family of revolvers. I have seen several guns where a small dovetail has been cut in the sight and some sort of plastic or resin was installed. Some look VERY professional.
Some people just paint the sight. Whether or not you like such things, this could be a plus or a minus. If it is just paint, it could be easily removed, but if the front sight has been altered (cut) it would cost far more than it would be worth to change it back. Personally I'd just shoot it.

[Dframe]

Just wondering if you bought the gun.

[4thHorseman]

I would like to tell you what I do.
I go to the auto part store and buy a brightly colored "engine enamel" paint. Maybe an orange, red, light blue or bright green, or what ever color you want.
Apply the paint by first cleaning the area with alcohol or non residue cleaner, using masking tape to mark off the areas you do not want to paint. Spray several coats, let dry for the time required. Looks very good, the paint is resistant to oils and solvents. Ten bucks and looks very professional.

[Tusker]

I have never seen a factory insert in a D frame either, and they SURE wouldn't have painted one on. Try a dab of fingernail polish on a swab. THAT will tell you if it is paint. The operation is really a waste of time one a snubbie at any rate. Here is the Python. She wears Ivory target Stocks as well. :)

http://www.fototime.com/4168EA9935883C6/standard.jpg

[Dframe]

You're right about the factory not painting on a front sight. I have to disagree with you on it's utility for a snubby. I have several on which I've put a dab of nail polish. It helps provide contrast in different lighting conditions. I shoot snubs A LOT. And with my old eyes it helps me acquire the sights more quickly when shooting stings of plates.