Safety First
Essential Safety Precautions
Always, *always* verify that your Glock 23 is unloaded. Point the muzzle in a safe direction. Remove the magazine. Cycle the slide to eject any chambered rounds. Visually inspect the chamber.
Treat every firearm as if it is loaded. Keep your finger off the trigger. Wear safety glasses. Consider wearing gloves.
Workspace Preparation
Choose a well-lit area with a clean, stable surface. Minimize distractions, and ensure you have adequate space to spread out your supplies.
Tools and Materials Needed
A cleaning rod and bore brush. A cleaning jag or a slotted patch holder. Cleaning patches. Gun cleaning solvent. Gun lubricant/oil. A toothbrush or cleaning brush. Small cleaning picks or tools.
Disassembly
Field Stripping
Remove the magazine. Confirm the firearm is unloaded. Pull the slide back slightly. Depress the takedown levers. Slide the slide assembly forward. Remove the recoil spring assembly. Remove the barrel.
Cleaning the Components
Cleaning the Barrel
Apply gun solvent to a cleaning patch. Brush the bore. Run dry patches through the bore until they come out clean. Inspect the bore.
Cleaning the Slide
Wipe down the exterior with solvent. Clean the breech face and extractor. Clean the firing pin channel. Wipe down the slide rails.
Cleaning the Frame
Wipe down the frame exterior. Clean the locking block rails.
Cleaning the Magazine(s)
Wipe down the magazine body, the follower, and the spring.
Lubrication
Lubricate the slide rails. Apply a light coat of oil to the exterior of the barrel. Lubricate the recoil spring assembly. Apply a small amount of oil to the trigger mechanism area.
Reassembly
Install the barrel into the slide. Install the recoil spring assembly. Slide the slide back onto the frame. Ensure that the takedown levers are seated correctly. Test the trigger. Cycle the slide.
Final Inspection and Test Firing
Make sure all the parts are correctly installed. Perform a function check. Fire a few rounds to verify functionality (after proper training).
Storage
Store your Glock 23 in a safe, dry environment. Consider using a gun safe or lock box.
Troubleshooting
Common Issues
Failure to feed. Failure to extract. Consult a qualified gunsmith if issues persist.
Conclusion
Regular cleaning and maintenance are critical for the safe and reliable operation of your Glock 23. Maintain your firearm and extend its lifespan. A clean and well-maintained Glock 23 is a reliable Glock 23.
This is not a substitute for professional instruction. Always prioritize safety, and always consult with a qualified firearms instructor or gunsmith if you have any questions or concerns.
Additional Resources
Visit Glock’s official website. Seek a reputable gunsmith or certified instructor.
