Rehashing a common topic; AR-15 A2 Sight Removal

[BGSnow]

I'm sure this is a common topic, but a search indicates it has been awhile since we had a lively discussion about AR Platform sight block removal.

I am taking the front A sight off of a Colt M4 LE6920, to replace it with a low profile block and a free float handguard.

I took the gas tube roll pin out - no issues.
I measured both sides of the pins to make sure I was driving them out small side=>Big side (which is left=>right when in normal aim stance)
I ground a little of the hump off of each small side to make a flat surface for the punch.

I took the front sight pin out, no issues after a couple of whacks.

The back one is being a real problem.
I am using a 3/32" center punch tool, and a brass hammer.
I just cant get that damn back pin out.

Any suggestions?

[moosefisher]

Bigger hammer. You have to whack the taper pins pretty good. They make a bench block that cradles the sight post for sight removal. Less than $40 and makes the job a lot easier. Good Luck, MOOSE

[BGSnow]

*** Update***

I was making ZERO progress, and spent a several dollars on a few roll pin punches that I was bending to ****.
I was using 3/32 Hardened Roll pins, and a Heavy Copper (2lb) hammer for whacking.

I decide to change course.
I got out the trusty Dremel, and cut a slot in the LARGE end of the tapered roll pin, the end that would come out FIRST. My thinking was that I would cut down the surface area or the stuck pin, and that would make the hammer "persuasion" more effective.

Once I cut about 3/8", I gave it a good whack and, as expected, that did the trick.

[XDM 40 cal]

You could have just cut the top of the sight off above the gas tube. just saying.

[Shooter McNasty]

Exactly then you have a pinned sight