Safety is Paramount
Importance of Safety
Before embarking on any work involving firearms, safety must be your absolute top priority. It’s not just a good practice; it’s an unwavering principle. Every firearm, regardless of its perceived state, should be treated as if it were loaded. This is the bedrock of safe gun handling.
Clearing the Firearm
To begin, and before any other action, you must ensure your Glock is completely unloaded and safe to handle. This process, often referred to as clearing the firearm, is crucial. First, locate and remove the magazine. This action immediately removes the primary source of ammunition.
Next, rack the slide fully to the rear. This action extracts and ejects any round that may be chambered. Continue to hold the slide open and visually inspect the chamber, ensuring it is empty. Look through the ejection port and the chamber itself, verifying the absence of a cartridge. Finally, to be absolutely certain, physically inspect the chamber by inserting a finger (with the firearm pointed in a safe direction) to feel for any remaining rounds. Never rely solely on visual inspection.
Work Area Preparation
Once you have verified that the firearm is unloaded, you can proceed to prepare your work area. A clean, well-lit space is essential for precision work. A stable surface, such as a workbench, is highly recommended. Make sure the area is free of distractions. Remove any potential hazards, and ensure you have ample space to work comfortably. This preparation will allow you to focus on the task at hand.
Essential Tools and Materials
The right tools can make a significant difference in the ease and success of removing your Glock rear sight. While there are a few options, the primary and most recommended tool is a dedicated sight pusher. This tool is specifically designed to remove and install sights without damaging the slide or sight itself.
A sight pusher tool typically utilizes a clamping mechanism to securely hold the slide and a pushing mechanism to apply even pressure to the sight, moving it laterally out of the dovetail. This method minimizes the risk of marring the finish of the slide. Look for a sight pusher specifically designed for Glock pistols. Many options are available online or at your local gun store, often with adjustable features to accommodate different slide widths.
Alternative Tools (if no sight pusher is available)
If a dedicated sight pusher isn’t available, there are alternative methods, but these require extra caution and finesse. The most common alternative involves a brass punch and a hammer. A brass punch is preferable because brass is softer than steel, reducing the risk of damaging the slide. The correct size brass punch should be smaller in diameter than the sight’s width to provide a concentrated point of impact.
Protective Materials
You’ll also need to provide protective materials. Painter’s tape or masking tape can be applied to the slide around the rear sight. This will help to protect the finish from scratches during the removal process.
Other Necessary Items
Other essential items to have on hand include a gunsmithing vise. This can be incredibly helpful to hold the slide securely during the removal process, freeing up your hands. Safety glasses are an absolute must; they protect your eyes from any flying debris. Gloves are optional, but they can improve grip and protect your hands. Finally, keep gun oil or a suitable lubricant handy for reassembly, if needed.
Initiating the Removal Process
Now that you have all the necessary tools and materials, you’re ready to begin the removal process. First, position your Glock pistol securely. If you have a gunsmithing vise, this is an ideal location. Clamp the slide gently but firmly in the vise, ensuring the slide is held securely without causing damage.
Preparation
Apply the protective tape around the rear sight on your slide. This crucial step will help to prevent any scratches or damage to the finish during the removal process.
Using a Sight Pusher Tool (Recommended)
Now, if you’re fortunate enough to have a dedicated sight pusher, use it! Position the Glock slide in the sight pusher according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Most sight pushers will have adjustments that allow you to secure the slide firmly. Align the pushing mechanism of the tool with the sight. The direction of removal is generally from left to right when looking at the rear of the firearm. Carefully and gradually apply pressure to the sight using the pusher tool. Make slow, controlled adjustments. The sight should begin to move laterally. If the sight is particularly tight, do not force it. Instead, apply some penetrating oil and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, try again.
Using a Brass Punch and Hammer (Alternative)
When using a brass punch and hammer, place the slide on a stable surface, or, if you have one, in the vise. Ensure the slide is firmly in place. Position the punch against the side of the rear sight. Ensure you’re making contact with the sight itself and not any surrounding parts of the slide.
Tap the punch gently with the hammer. Start with light taps, gradually increasing the force as needed. The goal is to coax the sight out of the dovetail, not to force it. Work carefully and deliberately. Watch carefully to ensure the sight moves in the correct direction. Continue tapping until the sight has moved enough to be removed by hand, or the tool has done all it can do.
Addressing Tight Sights
Sometimes, the rear sight can be stubbornly resistant to removal. This is not uncommon. There are a few strategies to help you overcome this challenge. First, make sure you are applying force in the correct direction. The dovetail cut in the slide is designed to hold the sight in place, often with a degree of interference fit.
If the sight is proving difficult to budge, apply a penetrating oil like Kroil or PB Blaster to the area where the sight meets the slide. This oil can help to break down any corrosion or friction that may be holding the sight in place. Allow the oil to penetrate for a period, often between fifteen minutes and an hour.
For particularly stubborn sights, a gentle application of heat can be helpful. Use a heat gun or a hair dryer on a low setting. Never apply excessive heat, as this could damage the finish or, in extreme cases, potentially affect the heat treatment of the steel. Apply heat cautiously.
Final Steps and Considerations
Once the sight is removed, take a moment to inspect both the slide and the sight dovetail. Look for any signs of damage. Remove any debris or residue from the dovetail. A clean dovetail is important for the correct installation of the new sight.
If you plan to install a replacement sight, make sure the new sight is compatible with your Glock model. Some sights may require minor modifications for proper fit. It’s also important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation. You will essentially reverse the removal process, using your pusher or punch to slide the new sight into place. You may need to adjust the new sight’s positioning for proper zeroing of your weapon, depending on the sight manufacturer’s instructions.
Conclusion
Removing a Glock rear sight is a manageable task when approached with care, the right tools, and an unwavering commitment to safety. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully remove your rear sight, whether for replacement, upgrade, or simply because you want to. Always remember to prioritize safety, and never hesitate to consult a qualified gunsmith if you are unsure about any part of the process.
This article has provided a comprehensive overview of Glock rear sight removal, but it’s important to acknowledge the inherent risks associated with working with firearms. Improper handling can lead to serious injury or even death. Responsibility rests solely with the individual performing the work. Proceed cautiously, and if you are uncomfortable with any part of the process, seek professional assistance. We hope this article has been helpful.
