The 8 simple tools you need to start gunsmithing at home

#3  PUNCHES

Knocking out pins and moving sights is the job of the punch, which comes in steel, brass or nylon. Steel punches are used most often to drive out pins. Since brass punches are softer than gunmetal, they’re typically used to adjust iron sights to avoid marring the finish. That said, try to avoid “brass tracking,” the unsightly marks left on a firearm’s finish when the punch slides across the surface. If this is a concern, a nylon punch may be the best option.

#4  HAMMERS

Hammers give your punch the extra encouragement needed to drive pins and move sights. Use an eight-ounce ball-peen hammer, but keep a 12-ounce ball-peen on hand for stubborn pins (anything heavier than 12 ounces can cause more harm than good). For added protection or when trying to move stuck parts, use a rubber, nylon or brass hammer to avoid marring the firearm.