Introduction
The Glock 19. A name synonymous with reliability, accuracy, and widespread use. This compact 9mm pistol has become a favorite among law enforcement, military personnel, and civilian shooters alike. Its robust design and ease of maintenance contribute significantly to its enduring popularity. Understanding how to properly care for your Glock 19, specifically knowing how to disassemble its slide, is essential for maintaining its optimal performance and ensuring its longevity. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or new to firearms, learning the process of disassembling a Glock 19 slide is a valuable skill. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step approach, designed to help you safely and effectively disassemble your Glock 19 slide.
Why Disassemble?
Knowing how to disassemble the Glock 19 slide goes beyond mere curiosity; it’s a crucial skill for several reasons. Regular cleaning and maintenance are paramount for ensuring your firearm functions flawlessly. Debris, carbon buildup, and accumulated lubricants can hinder the proper operation of critical components. Disassembling the slide allows for thorough cleaning, preventing malfunctions and extending the lifespan of your pistol. Furthermore, if you plan to upgrade any parts of your slide, such as installing a new firing pin or extractor, disassembly is a prerequisite. Additionally, understanding the internal workings of your Glock 19 provides a deeper appreciation for its engineering and operational mechanics. With this knowledge, you can identify potential issues and address them before they escalate into more serious problems. Mastering this process empowers you to maintain your firearm, making it a reliable tool for self-defense or recreational shooting.
Safety First
It is absolutely critical to prioritize safety before beginning any disassembly or maintenance procedure. Firearms demand respect, and carelessness can have severe consequences. Ensure a safe working environment, free from distractions and potential hazards.
Before commencing with the disassembly of the slide, it’s imperative to verify that the firearm is completely unloaded. This crucial safety measure is the single most important step in preventing accidental discharges.
Unloading the Firearm
- Remove the Magazine: Begin by pressing the magazine release button and removing the magazine from the grip.
- Visually Inspect the Chamber: With the magazine removed, pull the slide fully to the rear and lock it open using the slide release lever. Visually inspect the chamber to confirm that no ammunition remains.
- Physically Check the Chamber: After confirming the chamber is empty visually, cycle the slide again to ensure the chamber is clear. You should also use your finger to manually feel the chamber and make absolutely sure it is empty.
Always handle your firearm as if it were loaded, and point it in a safe direction, away from yourself and others.
Always wear appropriate eye protection. Safety glasses protect your eyes from potential debris or flying parts during the disassembly process.
Work in a clean and well-lit area. This ensures you can easily see small parts and avoid losing them. A clean work surface or a gun mat is recommended to prevent scratches and keep the components organized.
Consider utilizing a magnetic parts tray to securely hold small parts and prevent loss. A small flashlight can be helpful for illuminating the interior components of the slide. Having some paper towels or cleaning cloths ready helps with cleanup and lubrication.
Disassembling the Slide
After establishing a safe working environment and confirming the Glock 19 is unloaded, the next step is to remove the slide from the frame. This prepares the slide for further disassembly, enabling access to its internal components.
Removing the Slide from the Frame
The first step, before disassembling the slide, you must remove it from the frame. This is done by first ensuring the firearm is unloaded. With the magazine removed, pull the slide fully to the rear. The slide should lock open. Rotate the slide release lever downwards to secure the slide to its rearward position. With the slide locked back, pull down on the takedown lever on both sides of the frame. The slide can now be pulled forward off of the frame.
Removing the Barrel and Recoil Spring Assembly
After removing the slide, you can separate the barrel and recoil spring from the slide. Depress the recoil spring guide, and gently remove the barrel and recoil spring.
The following steps guide you through the process of disassembling the Glock 19 slide. Remember to proceed with caution and prioritize safety throughout.
Depressing the Firing Pin Safety
The firing pin safety, sometimes referred to as the striker safety, prevents the firing pin from moving forward and discharging a cartridge until the trigger is pulled. Understanding and managing this safety mechanism is critical for safe disassembly.
Depressing the firing pin safety is easily achieved using a Glock armorer’s tool, which is highly recommended for this procedure. Place the tool’s tip over the firing pin safety plunger. Push the plunger in to its recess, compressing the spring underneath. In the absence of a Glock tool, a non-marring punch of the proper diameter can be used, taking care not to scratch or damage the slide.
Removing the Back Plate
The slide’s back plate, also called the slide cover plate, is a retaining mechanism. It secures the firing pin assembly and other internal components within the slide.
Using a Glock armorer’s tool (or the appropriate tool), depress the firing pin safety plunger as described earlier. While the plunger is depressed, use the armorer’s tool or a similar tool to pry out the back plate from the slide. This can sometimes require a bit of force, as the spring tension of the firing pin spring compresses against the back plate. Be careful not to allow the plate to slip out suddenly as the firing pin spring pressure will cause it to eject.
Removing the Firing Pin Assembly
The firing pin assembly is a critical component, responsible for igniting the primer of the cartridge. This assembly consists of the firing pin itself, the firing pin spring, and the spring cups. Removing this assembly is an essential step in slide disassembly.
With the back plate removed, carefully remove the firing pin assembly from the rear of the slide. The firing pin spring provides significant tension; take care to control its movement. If the back plate was successfully removed the firing pin assembly should slide out with no interference.
Removing the Extractor
The extractor plays a critical role in removing spent cartridge cases from the chamber, facilitating the cycling of the firearm.
The extractor, is located on the right side of the slide. To remove it, the extractor depressor plunger must be pushed in. The extractor depressor plunger is the smaller of the two plungers. Once it is depressed, the extractor can be pivoted outwards. This movement will allow it to be freed from its channel.
Removing the Extractor Depressor Plunger Assembly
The extractor depressor plunger assembly includes a plunger, the plunger spring, and a bearing (usually made of metal or plastic).
Push the extractor depressor plunger out from the front of the slide, using a small punch or the appropriate tool. Be careful to prevent the ejection of its spring. This might require some force, so a suitable tool or punch is recommended. Always be mindful of small parts.
Removing the Firing Pin Safety and Slide Cover Plate
The firing pin safety and the firing pin safety spring, also known as the striker safety, are small but critical for the safe and reliable operation of the Glock 19.
The firing pin safety is located inside the slide, and its removal requires careful attention to detail. This can be done by extracting the firing pin safety with needle nose pliers.
Cleaning and Lubrication
After taking the slide apart, a proper cleaning is vital to ensure the longevity and proper function of all components. A thorough cleaning removes accumulated grime, residue, and potential obstructions.
Cleaning the Components
- Use an appropriate solvent to clean each component. The selection of solvent can vary based on the type of lubricant or buildup present. Apply the solvent carefully, taking care to avoid damaging the components.
- A cleaning brush or swabs can be utilized to remove stubborn debris.
- Once cleaned, dry all the parts to prevent any rust or corrosion. You can use compressed air or a clean, lint-free cloth to achieve this.
Lubricating the Slide
Proper lubrication is equally important. Lubrication reduces friction, preventing wear and tear on moving parts and promoting smooth operation.
- Apply a small amount of lubricant to appropriate areas. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations regarding lubricant selection and application points. Common points of lubrication include the rails, firing pin, and extractor.
- Avoid over-lubrication. Excess lubricant can attract dirt and debris, leading to malfunctions. A thin, even coat is typically sufficient.
Reassembly
Reassembly is the reverse of the disassembly process. Reassembling the slide requires meticulous attention to detail to ensure each component is correctly positioned and securely installed.
- Carefully insert the firing pin safety and its spring back into the slide.
- Install the extractor depressor plunger assembly into the slide, paying close attention to its orientation.
- Reinstall the extractor.
- Insert the firing pin assembly.
- Compress the firing pin spring and replace the back plate.
- Reinstall the barrel and recoil spring assembly.
- Reattach the slide to the frame.
- Test the function of the firearm to ensure it is working properly.
Troubleshooting
If, during the disassembly or reassembly process, you encounter any problems, it’s crucial to remain calm and methodical. The following troubleshooting tips can help resolve common issues:
- If you encounter any issues with a stuck pin, applying penetrating oil, carefully using a punch, and taking your time will often solve the issue.
- Difficulties with spring tension may require the use of specialized tools, or a little extra patience.
- Parts not fitting properly might indicate incorrect installation or damaged components. In this case, double-check the orientation of parts and inspect them for any visible damage.
Conclusion
The disassembly of the Glock 19 slide is a fundamental skill for any firearm owner. By understanding and mastering the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure your firearm is kept in top condition. Remember that regular maintenance and cleaning extend the lifespan of your Glock 19, enhancing its reliability and performance.
Remember, the key to safe and successful maintenance is adhering to the instructions, working in a safe environment, and prioritizing safety above all else.
Resources
For more in-depth information and visual guides, explore the official Glock website. There, you can find detailed manuals, videos, and specifications.
Disassembling your Glock 19 slide might seem daunting at first, but with patience, practice, and careful attention to detail, it becomes a routine task. By mastering this process, you’re not only maintaining your firearm but also deepening your understanding of its inner workings. This knowledge allows you to better diagnose and address potential problems, ensuring your Glock 19 remains a reliable and dependable tool.
