restoration snag

[Nate]

A sporterised #4 arrived with the front sight base removed. It will not go back on using mild force. If there is a trick to fitting this, I haven't found it. Please let me know if one exists. Other than that, the restoration is complete.

[Sunray]

Press fit, as I recall. Get a bigger hammer.

[JB White]

Does it go on to the lugs at all? Make certain there are no peened corners or petrified crud lingering around. Clamp the rifle by the barrel into a bench vise using wood and/or leather. Then try tapping it on using a small block of wood between it and the mallet.