Introduction
The Glock 22, chambered in .40 S&W, stands as a testament to engineering excellence. Its reputation for reliability, durability, and ease of use has made it a favorite amongst law enforcement agencies, military personnel, and civilian gun owners alike. Owning a Glock 22 is more than just possessing a firearm; it’s accepting the responsibility of understanding and maintaining it properly. This includes the crucial skill of disassembly.
Understanding how to disassemble your Glock 22 isn’t merely a matter of technical proficiency; it’s an integral part of responsible firearm ownership. Regular disassembly allows for thorough cleaning, which in turn ensures optimal performance and extends the lifespan of your pistol. Moreover, a good grasp of disassembly empowers you to quickly identify potential issues, such as wear and tear, that might affect the safe and reliable operation of your Glock 22. Regular inspection and cleaning are critical for maintaining this firearm.
This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step approach to field stripping your Glock 22. It focuses on the basic disassembly required for routine cleaning and maintenance. It’s important to understand that this process, while straightforward, should always be approached with caution and a commitment to safety. Keep in mind, this is not a complete takedown guide; rather, it’s focused on the most common and essential steps.
Safety First: Essential Precautions
Before attempting to disassemble your Glock 22, it’s paramount to prioritize safety. Firearms, by their very nature, demand respect and adherence to strict safety protocols. Never compromise on these principles.
The First and Foremost Rule: Treat Every Firearm as if It’s Loaded.
This is the foundational principle of firearm safety. Even if you believe a gun is unloaded, handle it with the utmost care and assume it could discharge at any moment. The moment you pick up your Glock 22, begin with this important step.
Muzzle Discipline: Never Point the Muzzle at Anything You Are Not Willing to Destroy.
This simple rule prevents accidental injury or damage. Always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, such as downrange or at a solid backstop. Consider the direction as if your life depended on it.
Keep Your Finger Off the Trigger Until Ready to Shoot.
This is a key element in preventing unintentional discharges. Keep your finger straight and off the trigger until you have made a conscious decision to fire.
Know Your Target and What Is Beyond It.
Be certain of your target, and be aware of any objects or people behind it. Understand the range of your bullet and the potential for ricochets.
Confirming the Glock 22 is Unloaded
The most critical step in the entire process is verifying that the Glock 22 is unloaded. This must be done meticulously before beginning any disassembly.
Remove the Magazine
Depress the magazine release button, which is typically located on the left side of the frame, and pull the magazine out of the grip. Visually check the magazine to confirm that it is completely empty.
Check the Chamber
With the magazine removed, pull the slide fully rearward and lock it open using the slide lock lever. This action ensures that any cartridge in the chamber will be ejected.
Visual Inspection
Carefully inspect the chamber to verify that it is empty. Use a flashlight if necessary to ensure clear visibility.
Physical Inspection
Slide the slide slightly forward. Pull the slide back again and lock it into position. Recheck the chamber visually again to make sure it is empty.
Tools and Supplies: Gathering What You Need
Fortunately, the disassembly of a Glock 22 doesn’t require a vast array of tools. It’s designed for ease of maintenance.
The Glock 22 Pistol
Obviously, you will need the Glock 22 itself. Make sure you’ve cleared it, as indicated in the safety section.
A Empty Magazine
This has already been removed and safely set aside.
Safety Glasses
Eye protection is essential to safeguard against any potential debris that may be present during the process.
Cleaning Supplies
These aren’t strictly necessary for disassembly, but they are important for after you take the Glock 22 apart. These can include a cleaning rod, bore brush (for the barrel), cleaning solvent or gun oil, and cleaning patches.
Optional Glock Disassembly Tool
This tool isn’t essential, but it can make the process slightly easier. It can help with the removal of the slide stop lever pin.
Taking Apart the Glock 22: The Procedure
Now that we’ve established the safety protocols and gathered the required items, we can proceed with disassembling your Glock 22. Always work in a clean, well-lit area, free from distractions.
Removing the Magazine
This is the initial step. Before you do anything, the magazine must be out of the Glock 22.
- Grasp the grip of the Glock 22 firmly.
- Locate the magazine release button.
- Press the magazine release button firmly. The magazine release is typically located on the left side of the Glock 22.
- With the magazine release depressed, pull the magazine downward and out of the grip.
Clearing the Chamber
Before proceeding, double-check that the Glock 22 is unloaded.
- Grasp the slide firmly and pull it all the way to the rear, until it locks open.
- While holding the slide back, engage the slide lock lever by pushing it upward. The slide should now remain open.
- Visually inspect the chamber to confirm it is empty.
- Visually and physically inspect the chamber. Check for any round or other debris.
Taking the Slide Off
This step requires careful manipulation, and it is where understanding the mechanics becomes important.
- With the slide locked open, point the firearm in a safe direction.
- While keeping the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, move the slide lock lever downward to disengage it.
- As you release the slide lock lever, the slide will move forward slightly.
- While still maintaining a firm grip on the slide, pull it back.
- The slide should now be easily removed from the frame. Continue to pull the slide backward until it is free from the frame. The slide should slide off the frame.
Extracting the Recoil Spring Assembly and Barrel
With the slide removed, you can now disassemble the barrel and recoil spring assembly. This is relatively easy, but it is a crucial step for proper cleaning.
- Carefully push the recoil spring assembly. It should easily come out.
- Grasp the barrel and lift it out of the slide.
Final Safety Check: Ensuring Everything is Safe
Before doing anything further, perform another safety check.
- Inspect all components for any signs of damage, wear, or obstructions.
- Visually inspect the firing pin channel to ensure that there are no obstructions that could cause a malfunction.
Putting the Glock 22 Back Together: Reassembly
Reassembly of your Glock 22 is essentially the reverse of disassembly. Take your time and double-check everything.
Assembling the Slide
- Insert the barrel into the slide, carefully aligning it with the appropriate grooves.
- Re-insert the recoil spring assembly back into place.
Reattaching the Slide to the Frame
- Ensure the frame is in a safe position.
- Align the slide with the frame rails.
- Slide the slide back onto the frame, and push the slide rearward.
- Rack the slide to test and ensure that it functions properly.
Magazine Insertion and Final Checks
- With the slide seated back on the frame, insert the magazine.
- Perform a function check to ensure the Glock 22 cycles properly. Carefully and slowly rack the slide, and verify that it functions.
Cleaning and Maintenance: Maintaining the Glock 22
Disassembly provides an opportunity to clean and lubricate your Glock 22.
- Cleaning the Barrel: Use a bore brush and solvent to clean the barrel thoroughly.
- Cleaning the Slide: Wipe down the slide, removing any debris.
- Lubrication: Apply a small amount of gun oil to the slide rails and the barrel.
Conclusion
Disassembling and reassembling your Glock 22 is a crucial skill for any owner. This step-by-step guide provides a safe and effective method for field stripping your pistol. Remember to always prioritize safety, follow all instructions carefully, and practice regularly. Proper disassembly and maintenance are essential for preserving the performance, reliability, and longevity of your Glock 22. This guide is intended to help you understand the basics. For more complex maintenance or repair, seek professional assistance. Continued learning and practice will build your confidence and proficiency. Responsible gun ownership includes continuous education.
