I'm trying to change out my old sight with a fiber optic sight. The screw holding the original one is frozen. I'm assuming the threads were sealed with Locktight of some type. The screw head did not strip, but rather broke my screw driver head. Would it be OK to heat the barrel in that area with a blow torch to remove the screw??

I think I'd try a bath of boiling water first.

Good luck!

I'd leave the blow torch as a last resort. Before that, I'd probably try:
1. Soaking several days with repeated applications of penetrating oil.
2. Repeated boiling water treatment.
3. Some taps directly onto the screw with a hammer/screwdriver to break whatever bond there is.
4. Cutting a new groove in the screw to hold your screw driver if the channel is beat up (dremel tool).
5. Praying. Hey, it can't hurt if you're willing to take a blow torch to the barrel.....

Good luck.

Thanks for the replies. The gunsmith is next on my list. Good hunting to you all this year.

I've heard brake fluid will dissolve loctite so you might want to give it a try. Other options are to use a hammer driver. With the handheld version you tap on the top with a hammer to either drive in or back out a screw. Depending on screw size you might also be able to use something like an easy out tool. This option would be the least exciting as you have to drill a hole in the top of the screw first to use the tool.

Use a butane torch to heat the sight only. Loctite will melt with the heat. The cheaper butane torch will heat up the sight base and not bother your barrel any. I am talking put the flame on the base for about 3-5 seconds then try to take the screw out. Repeat as necessary. Should come out no problem if loctite. If rusted in, breakfree or hot water will be your best bets.

Steve