Safety First: Read This Before You Begin!
Firearms are inherently dangerous, and improper handling can lead to serious injury or even death. Every interaction with a firearm demands respect and adherence to strict safety protocols. Always assume that any firearm is loaded until you have personally verified it is not. Before attempting any disassembly or maintenance, including removing the Glock back plate, make sure these safety precautions are meticulously followed.
Verify the Firearm is Unloaded
This is the most critical step.
- Remove the magazine and inspect the chamber to ensure it is empty. Visually inspect the chamber and physically check it with your finger (or a cleaning rod) to make absolutely certain there is no ammunition present.
Eye and Ear Protection
Always wear appropriate safety glasses and ear protection while working on firearms. Debris can easily become airborne, and even minor impacts can cause eye damage.
Work Environment
Choose a clean, well-lit work area free from distractions. A dedicated workspace is ideal, but at a minimum, clear a stable surface to prevent parts from rolling away or getting lost.
Direction of the Muzzle
At all times, point the muzzle of the firearm in a safe direction. This means pointing it at a backstop or in a direction where a negligent discharge would not cause harm.
Storage and Handling of Components
Keep all parts, especially the firing pin assembly, away from children and unauthorized individuals.
Seek Professional Assistance
If you are unsure about any step, or if you encounter any difficulties, immediately consult a qualified gunsmith. Attempting to force parts or proceeding without proper knowledge can cause damage to your firearm or, more importantly, put you and others at risk.
Tools You’ll Need
Successfully removing the Glock back plate requires the correct tools. Fortunately, this procedure doesn’t demand specialized equipment; however, having the right tools and understanding their purpose will make the process significantly smoother.
- A Suitable Punch: The primary tool is a punch of the correct size to fit the pin securing the back plate. The exact diameter may vary slightly depending on the Glock model. A roll pin punch is the most suitable choice. These punches have a small tip that centers on the pin. A pin punch or a roll pin punch, ideally in a gunsmith’s tool kit, will be ideal. Make sure it’s a size that fits.
- A Non-Marring Hammer: A hammer is necessary to gently drive the punch and push the pin out. Choose a hammer made of a non-marring material, such as nylon, rubber, or a brass hammer. This will prevent scratches or damage to the slide.
- A Small, Non-Marring Tool: You might need a small tool to gently persuade the back plate to move. A plastic pry tool, a small screwdriver with a covered tip, or a non-marring pick are all suitable options.
- Gun Cleaning Mat (Recommended): While optional, a gun cleaning mat is a valuable addition to your workspace. It protects your firearm from scratches and provides a non-slip surface to prevent parts from rolling away.
- Cleaning Supplies (If Cleaning): If you plan to clean the firing pin channel or other internal parts, you’ll need appropriate cleaning solvents, brushes, and cloths.
- Vice or Bench Block (Optional, but helpful): Having a way to stabilize the slide is helpful. While not strictly required, a bench block or a padded vise can hold the slide steady, making it easier to work with.
- Gloves (Optional): Although optional, wearing gloves can improve your grip and protect your hands.
Taking Apart the Glock: Removing the Back Plate Step-by-Step
Now that we’ve covered safety and the tools required, we can proceed with the core of this guide: removing the Glock back plate. Follow these steps carefully and methodically.
Disassembly of the Slide (Simplified)
Before accessing the back plate, you must first disassemble the slide from the frame.
- Clear the Firearm: Once again, double-check the magazine is out and the gun is unloaded. Verify the chamber is empty as previously described.
- Field Strip the Slide: Remove the slide from the frame. Refer to your Glock owner’s manual for the detailed field stripping instructions if you are unfamiliar with this step. Basically, you need to retract the slide slightly, pull down the takedown levers on both sides of the frame, and then slide the slide forward off of the frame. This should result in the slide separate from the frame.
Position the Slide
Now that you’ve removed the slide from the firearm and fully cleared it, you need to prepare it for the next steps.
- Secure the Slide (If Applicable): Place the slide on your work surface. If you have a vise or bench block, position the slide in it, using the vise to clamp the slide into place. If you don’t have a vise, placing the slide on a stable surface is enough.
Finding the Firing Pin Channel
Before proceeding, it’s important to identify where the pin is located.
- Locate the Pin: Look at the rear of the slide. You’ll see the back plate covering the firing pin assembly. The small pin is seated within the slide’s frame. It secures the back plate.
Using the Punch and Hammer
This is the key step for removing the Glock back plate. Proceed with caution and patience.
- Align the Punch: Place the slide on your work surface. Position the punch on the pin. Make sure the punch is centered on the pin and is perfectly aligned with the pin. It’s essential to have the punch sit flat and squarely on the pin.
- Gently Tap the Punch: Using the non-marring hammer, gently tap the punch. Use light taps initially. Don’t use excessive force. The pin should begin to move out of the slide. If the pin doesn’t move after a few gentle taps, re-align the punch and try again.
- Gradually Remove the Pin: Continue tapping the punch, using progressively more force as needed. Once the pin is loose, it should start coming out with ease. You can then remove the pin. It should not require significant force to drive it out.
Removing the Back Plate Itself
Once the pin is out, the back plate can now be removed.
- Gently Pry (If Needed): The back plate might be tight, but it should come off with minimal force. Use your fingers to carefully move the back plate outwards, away from the frame.
- Control the Firing Pin Assembly: The back plate houses the firing pin assembly (the firing pin, spring, and other related components). Be extremely careful when removing the back plate, because the firing pin assembly is spring-loaded. Ensure you control it to avoid it flying away. Gently capture it as you remove the back plate.
What To Do After Removing the Back Plate
With the Glock back plate removed, you have access to the firing pin assembly and the firing pin channel. This allows for several maintenance tasks.
Cleaning and Maintenance
- Cleaning the Firing Pin Channel: Use a cleaning rod with a brush or patch, and cleaning solvent to remove any debris or residue from the firing pin channel. This ensures reliable ignition and prevents malfunctions.
- Cleaning the Firing Pin: Inspect the firing pin for any signs of damage. Clean it with solvent, and then dry it thoroughly.
Inspecting the Components
- Firing Pin Inspection: Examine the firing pin for wear, damage, or any signs of corrosion. Replace any worn or damaged components.
- Back Plate Inspection: Examine the back plate itself for any damage or cracks. Ensure the spring is not damaged or broken.
Reassembly (Brief) of the Glock Back Plate
Reassembling the Glock components requires diligence and attention to detail. Reverse the disassembly steps and use the correct parts in the appropriate places.
- Insert the Firing Pin Assembly: First, carefully insert the firing pin assembly back into the slide.
- Secure the Back Plate: Align the back plate with the slide.
- Insert the Pin: Carefully insert the pin back into the slide.
- Function Check: Cycle the slide several times to ensure everything is working correctly. Then, perform a function check to ensure that all components are operating properly.
Troubleshooting
Sometimes, even with meticulous care, you might encounter issues during this procedure. Here are a couple of common problems and solutions:
- Stuck Back Plate: If the back plate is stuck, ensure the pin is completely removed. Gently tapping on the firing pin assembly may help loosen it.
- Difficult to Remove the Firing Pin: If the firing pin is difficult to remove, make sure the striker safety plunger is seated correctly.
If problems persist, consult a qualified gunsmith.
Conclusion
Mastering the process of removing the Glock back plate is an important step in becoming a responsible Glock owner. By following the steps outlined in this guide and prioritizing safety, you can successfully remove and replace the back plate for cleaning, maintenance, or other purposes. Remember to always handle firearms with respect, and never hesitate to seek professional assistance if you are unsure about any step.
Disclaimer
This guide is for informational purposes only. We are not responsible for any damage, injury, or misuse that may occur from using this information. Always follow all safety precautions and seek professional help if needed. Gun ownership carries inherent risks, and proper training is essential.
Remember to follow all local and federal laws regarding firearms ownership.
