We mentioned that the XS sights are good defensive sights in a recent post. We also warned that they are not always as easy to install as the packaging makes it seem. This was true again for us with a 1911 that came to the shop the other day, and it got us thinking that you may want to be cautious of many of the products that are advertised as user installed.
If you look at Brownell’s catalog, you will find many items for sale that are advertised as gunsmith fitting required, or recommended. Many shooters have the desire to tinker around with their own guns, and we understand. There is a great satisfaction from doing a modification to your own gun. We would never discourage you from trying, but let us offer a few parameters for you.
1. Make sure you have the right tools. For instance, don’t try to take apart your Browning A-5 shotgun with your craftsman screwdrivers. If you want to tinker, invest in the right tools for the job.
2. Know your limitations. There are some things that our shop refuses to do because the job is outside of our expertise. It is simply better to send it off. If you are not mechanically inclined, you might not want to try to reline your own barrel. Be realistic with your abilities.
3. If you are going to modify your gun, have some money ready. Nothing wrong with trying, but if you can’t afford to fail, you shouldn’t try it. Can you afford to buy a second part for the one you ruined? Can you afford a competent gunsmith to fix your modification? If not, hold off.
Keep these rules in mind, and you can really have a lot of fun personalizing your gun.