The only reason to take it off is simply that think I'd like the looks of it. If it turns out to be a hassle I will just leave the sights on.
As it turns out I was talking to a neighbor who lives eight doors down the street and he has a business from home as a jeweler. Because of this he has oxy-acetylene torches that should be very suitable for this job and he is certainly used to fine work. He's also a gun owner so I'm sure he'd take it seriously. We are planning to give it a try later this week.
