Prioritizing Safety: The Foundation of Responsible Gun Ownership
Assume Every Firearm is Loaded
Always treat every firearm as if it is loaded, regardless of what you believe to be the case.
Visually and Physically Verify Unloaded Status
Remove the magazine. With the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, lock the slide to the rear. Visually inspect the chamber to confirm it’s empty. Finally, run your finger inside the chamber to ensure there are no rounds. This double-check is paramount.
Safe Handling Area
Choose a clean, well-lit workspace that is free from distractions.
Protective Gear
Wearing eye protection is strongly recommended.
Never Point the Firearm at Anything You Do Not Wish to Destroy
This basic tenet of gun safety applies at all times. Control the direction of the muzzle.
Essential Tools for Safe Disassembly
Glock Disassembly Tool/Punch
A specialized tool designed for removing the pins in your Glock.
Small Hammer
A small hammer can be helpful for gently tapping out pins, but use it with extreme care and precision.
Eye Protection
Safety glasses are a must-have.
Clean Surface/Work Area
A clean and clear work area is very important.
Optional: Vise
A vise can be useful to stabilize the frame while removing pins, but it’s not absolutely necessary.
Taking Apart the Glock 17: A Systematic Approach
Separating the Slide
Depress the magazine release button located on the left side of the frame. Ensure the magazine is completely ejected.
With the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, pull the slide all the way back. The slide should lock open on the slide stop. Visually inspect the chamber and verify it is empty. Again, physically inspect the chamber with your finger for added security.
Rotate the takedown lever which is located on the left side of the frame just above the trigger guard.
Pull the slide slightly back, then press the slide catch lever down. The slide will now slide forward and off the frame.
Disassembly of the Slide Components
This section delves into the components housed within the slide.
Recoil Spring Assembly Removal
Carefully remove the recoil spring assembly by pulling it straight up and out of the slide.
Taking Out the Barrel
The barrel can now be removed from the slide. Simply lift it upward and out of the slide.
Frame Component Breakdown
Here, we will examine the process of taking apart the frame of your Glock 17.
The Slide Lock/Slide Catch Lever
This piece is a small lever and is located on the left side of the frame.
Removing the Trigger Mechanism Housing
Gently slide this plate down and out of the frame.
Releasing the Trigger Mechanism
The trigger mechanism is now visible. It can be easily removed from the frame.
Removing the Trigger Pin
Use your Glock disassembly tool or punch to carefully push this pin out of the frame. A gentle tap with a small hammer might be necessary.
Releasing the Trigger and Trigger Bar
With the pin removed, the trigger and trigger bar can now be removed from the frame.
Putting it Back Together: Reassembly of the Glock 17
Reinstalling Components
Begin by carefully reinserting the trigger and trigger bar into the frame.
Re-insert the trigger pin
Carefully align the holes in the frame and trigger mechanism, and reinsert the trigger pin. Make sure the trigger moves freely after this step.
Trigger Mechanism Housing Replacement
Secure the trigger mechanism housing (the back plate) back into the frame by sliding it up and back into the slide.
Barrel Replacement
Slide the barrel back into the slide.
Recoil Spring Assembly Insertion
Place the recoil spring assembly back into its location beneath the barrel.
Reintegrating the Slide
Place the slide back onto the frame by aligning the rails. Pull the slide back. The slide should now easily slide backward and forward.
Testing and Verification
After the reassembly is completed, it is time to confirm the correct function of the firearm.
Maintaining Your Glock 17: Cleaning and Lubrication
Essential Cleaning Supplies
Gun Cleaning Solvent
Choose a high-quality gun cleaning solvent to remove carbon buildup and other fouling.
Cleaning Brushes
A variety of brushes, including a bore brush, a nylon brush, and a small detail brush, will be useful.
Lubricant
Select a gun-specific lubricant to keep the moving parts functioning smoothly.
Component-by-Component Cleaning
The Barrel
Use a bore brush saturated with solvent to clean the barrel.
The Slide
Clean the inside of the slide, paying attention to the rails. Wipe down the slide with solvent.
The Frame
Clean the frame, particularly the areas where the slide and other components interact.
Small Parts
Clean any small components that were removed during disassembly.
Lubrication is Key
Lubrication Points
Lightly lubricate the slide rails, the barrel hood, the trigger mechanism, and any other moving parts.
Excess Lubrication
Be careful not to over-lubricate.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Disassembly Problems
If a pin is stuck or a component is difficult to remove, resist the urge to force anything.
Trigger Issues
If the trigger doesn’t reset properly after reassembly, double-check the alignment of the trigger bar.
A Few Final Thoughts
Disassembling your Glock 17 is a straightforward process that, when done correctly, enhances your understanding of the firearm.
Remember to always prioritize safety, work slowly, and consult with a qualified gunsmith if you encounter any issues you are not comfortable addressing.
The more you take apart and reassemble your Glock 17, the more comfortable and confident you will become. Always abide by safety rules.
