Prioritizing Safety: A Non-Negotiable Foundation
Before embarking on any work with a firearm, safety is paramount. This isn’t just a suggestion; it’s an absolute requirement. The inherent power and potential danger of a handgun demand unwavering respect and adherence to safety protocols throughout the entire process of changing sights on a Glock. Remember, a safe gun owner is a responsible gun owner.
The very first step before touching your Glock is to ensure it’s completely unloaded. This means more than just glancing at the magazine well. Here’s a meticulous approach:
- Magazine Removal: Depress the magazine release button and remove the magazine. Place it aside in a secure location.
- Visual Inspection: Carefully inspect the magazine well to confirm the magazine is removed.
- Chamber Check: Rack the slide fully to the rear and visually inspect the chamber to ensure there’s no round present. Repeat this action several times.
- Tactile Inspection: Run your finger along the chamber area to be absolutely certain. Feel for any obstruction.
- Lock the Slide: Lock the slide back.
- Safety First: Point the muzzle of the firearm in a safe direction, such as downrange in a controlled environment, or in a direction where any accidental discharge would cause minimal harm or damage.
Repeat these steps thoroughly to build a habit of safety. Only after the Glock is confirmed unloaded should you proceed.
Your workspace is another crucial element of safety. Choose a well-lit area, free from clutter. A clean workspace minimizes the risk of losing small parts and helps you maintain focus. Safety glasses are non-negotiable. They protect your eyes from potential flying debris or the impact of tools. Using appropriate work surfaces is equally important. This will prevent any unnecessary damage to the firearm or parts and will help to facilitate the changing sights on a Glock procedure.
Finally, secure storage for all parts and components is essential. After disassembly, you will have the old sights. Keep them organized and away from children and unauthorized individuals. Consider labeling a container with the date and model of the firearm for easy identification.
Assembling Your Toolkit: The Essential Equipment
Successfully changing sights on a Glock requires the right tools and materials. Trying to improvise can lead to frustration, damage to your firearm, and potentially, injuries. Investing in quality tools, particularly for the sight changing process, pays dividends in the long run.
First and foremost, you’ll need new sights. The market offers an incredible range of Glock sight options, each designed to meet specific needs and preferences. Consider your intended use. Are you primarily focused on self-defense, competitive shooting, or range practice? Do you prefer the high visibility of three-dot sights, the enhanced low-light performance of night sights, or the added precision of fiber optic sights? Research reputable brands and read reviews to make an informed decision.
Next, the sight pusher tool is a highly recommended piece of equipment. A sight pusher is specifically designed to precisely remove and install Glock sights without damaging the slide. It clamps securely onto the slide and uses mechanical advantage to gently push the sight in or out. This method significantly reduces the risk of marring the finish of your slide or deforming the sights themselves. There are many quality sight pushers available.
However, a sight pusher is not strictly mandatory. If you’re on a budget or prefer a more hands-on approach, the punch and hammer method is a viable alternative. You’ll need the following:
- A brass or polymer punch of the correct size, specifically designed for Glock sights. Brass and polymer prevent damage to the slide as compared to harder materials.
- A hammer of an appropriate size, preferably a gunsmith’s hammer with a well-balanced weight.
Additional tools that will be helpful are a bench vise (optional, but helpful for securing the slide), screwdrivers (if your new sights use screws for installation), gun lubricant/oil, cleaning supplies, and, optionally, a thread locker like Loctite (blue) for any screws if needed.
Dismantling the Old: Removing the Existing Sights
With your safety measures in place and your toolkit assembled, you’re now ready to begin the physical process of changing sights on a Glock. Let’s start with removing the old sights.
Rear Sight Removal
If you have a sight pusher tool, this is the easiest method. Secure the slide in the sight pusher according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Carefully align the pusher with the base of the rear sight, ensuring it is making contact with the sight itself and not the slide. Slowly and steadily, apply pressure to push the sight out of the dovetail. The sight should slide out smoothly. If it seems to be stuck, re-evaluate the alignment and ensure sufficient pressure. Do not use excessive force.
If you are using the punch and hammer method, a more careful process is required:
- Orientation: Position the slide securely on your work surface. The direction of removal is almost always from left to right (when looking down the barrel from the rear).
- Punch Placement: Place the punch squarely on the base of the rear sight.
- Hammering Technique: Tap the punch with the hammer. Start with gentle taps and gradually increase the force if necessary. The goal is to move the sight incrementally, not to force it out with a single blow.
- Progressive Movement: The sight should begin to move. Continue tapping, maintaining a steady and controlled rhythm.
- Avoid Damage: If the sight doesn’t move, double-check the punch alignment and ensure you are hitting the base of the sight and not the slide itself. Use gentle persuasion until it is moving.
Front Sight Removal
The removal of the front sight is typically simpler than the rear sight. Most standard Glock front sights are held in place by a screw.
- Locate Screw: Identify the screw securing the front sight.
- Unscrewing: Using the appropriate screwdriver, carefully unscrew the sight.
- Removal: Once the screw is out, the front sight should simply lift or slide out.
Installation: Putting the New Sights in Place
With the old sights removed, the stage is set for installing your new ones. This is a crucial step in the process of changing sights on a Glock, as precision and attention to detail are critical.
Rear Sight Installation
Using a sight pusher:
- Prepare the Slide: Secure the slide in the sight pusher.
- Alignment: Position the new rear sight into the dovetail.
- Pushing: Using the sight pusher, apply gentle pressure to slide the rear sight into the dovetail. Ensure you are pressing on the base of the sight and that it is not canting or tilting.
- Final Positioning: As the sight nears its final position, you may need to make adjustments to the pusher to fine-tune its alignment.
- Verify: Check that the rear sight is centered and properly aligned.
Using the punch and hammer:
- Positioning: Place the slide securely on your work surface. The direction of installation is, typically, from right to left (when looking down the barrel from the rear).
- Alignment: Position the new rear sight in the dovetail, ensuring it is aligned correctly.
- Support: Carefully place the punch against the base of the rear sight.
- Controlled Application: Tap the punch with the hammer. Start gently, and tap incrementally. Check for alignment after each few taps.
- Tight Fit: Some sights may fit snugly, while others may be more forgiving.
- Verification: Ensure the sight is centered and that it is correctly aligned.
Front Sight Installation
- Placement: Position the new front sight in the slide, where the old one was removed.
- Screwing: Secure the new front sight with the correct screw.
- Torque (If Available): Tighten the screw.
- Final Check: Before continuing, double-check the alignment and ensure that the sight is level.
Final Inspections and Considerations
After completing the installation of your new sights, several crucial checks are in order. These checks verify that the process of changing sights on a Glock has been successfully completed.
Carefully examine the sights to confirm they are properly aligned and leveled. Misaligned sights can lead to inaccurate shots. Level sights will ensure correct bullet trajectory.
Perform a complete function check. Cycle the slide repeatedly, ensuring it moves smoothly and that the firearm functions properly.
Test firing is paramount. Go to a safe range and test fire your Glock to confirm zeroing and accuracy.
If the point of impact isn’t where you expect, adjustments to the sights may be required. Many sights offer windage and elevation adjustments.
Finally, clean and lubricate your Glock after the sight change.
Addressing Potential Challenges
While the process of changing sights on a Glock is straightforward, a few challenges may arise.
If a sight doesn’t budge, it could be due to rust or debris. Apply penetrating oil, let it sit for a while, and then try again. Make sure you’re using the correct tools and techniques.
If you accidentally damage the slide or sights, take the Glock to a gunsmith. Avoid using excessive force or makeshift methods.
Sights that become loose during firing may be caused by the threadlocker used. Use threadlocker of the proper strength and follow instructions. If the sights repeatedly become loose, it may be necessary to take the Glock to a gunsmith.
Conclusion: Elevate Your Performance
Changing the sights on your Glock is a significant upgrade that will enhance your shooting experience. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently and safely change sights on a Glock. From improving your target acquisition to refining your accuracy, this seemingly simple modification is a valuable investment in your shooting skill. Remember to prioritize safety, choose the right tools, and take your time. Practice and refine your skills for a more confident and capable experience.
