Introduction
The Glock 19. A name synonymous with reliability, simplicity, and widespread adoption. Its reputation is built on a robust design and a user-friendly approach. At the heart of its functionality lies the fire control group, or FCG. Understanding this system is crucial for any Glock 19 owner, enabling you to maintain your firearm properly, diagnose potential issues, and ensure its safe and reliable operation. This guide provides a step-by-step walkthrough of how to disassemble, inspect, and reassemble the Glock 19 fire control group.
Safety First
Before embarking on any work on your Glock 19, safety must be your absolute paramount concern. Firearms are inherently dangerous and should always be treated with the utmost respect.
First, always and without exception, ensure your Glock 19 is unloaded. Remove the magazine, lock the slide back, and visually and physically inspect the chamber to confirm it is empty. Repeat this inspection, and then repeat it again. Never take for granted that the firearm is safe.
The next important point is to always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. This means pointing it in a direction where, should an accidental discharge occur, no one will be injured and no property will be damaged. A safe direction is generally considered to be a direction where no one is present and any potential damage from a bullet will not cause harm.
Finally, always wear appropriate eye protection. This will protect your eyes from potential injury. Working with firearms can often involve parts that may be dislodged forcefully, and it is crucial to have a layer of protection for your eyes.
Tools and Materials
To successfully disassemble and reassemble the Glock 19 fire control group, you will need a few tools and some basic materials. Fortunately, the necessary tools are generally inexpensive and readily available.
One of the most helpful tools to have on hand is a Glock disassembly tool, or similar punch. This is a small, non-marring punch that will assist in pushing out the various pins within the Glock frame. You can often find these sold as part of a Glock armorer’s kit, which might be a worthwhile investment. However, in a pinch, any small diameter non-marring punch, such as a plastic or brass punch, will work.
A small hammer can be helpful to gently tap the punch, especially when removing pins that are tightly fitted. Use a soft-faced hammer to avoid damaging the firearm’s frame.
Cleaning solvent or a gun degreaser is essential for cleaning the parts. This removes built-up carbon, grease, and other contaminants that can interfere with proper function.
Gun oil or a dedicated firearm lubricant is also a must. This ensures smooth operation of the moving parts.
You’ll also need some cleaning brushes and patches. These are used to scrub away debris and apply the cleaning solvent and lubricant.
An optional, but very helpful item is a Glock armorer’s block. This is a specialized tool designed to securely hold the Glock frame and provide a stable platform for disassembly and reassembly. It helps with alignment and makes the entire process easier.
Optional items include gloves. While not required, wearing gloves can help keep your hands clean and can provide some additional grip during the process.
It is crucial to emphasize that the proper and correct use of the right tools is vital to this process. Using the wrong tools can lead to scratches, damage, and malfunction of the firearm.
Disassembly Steps
The process of disassembly can be broken down into a series of steps, carefully performed in sequence.
Begin by field stripping the Glock 19. This is a routine process and a prerequisite to accessing the FCG. Remove the magazine, lock the slide back, and visually inspect the chamber to ensure it’s empty. Then, pull down on the takedown levers on both sides of the frame. While holding the takedown levers down, pull the slide forward off the frame.
Now, with the slide removed, you have direct access to the frame, and to the fire control group.
Slide Lock Lever Removal
First, locate the slide lock lever. Using a Glock disassembly tool or a small punch, push the slide lock lever pin out from the left side of the frame. The pin should be removed carefully. The slide lock lever can then be easily removed.
Locking Block Pin Removal
Next, we address the locking block pin. This pin passes through the frame and secures the locking block. Using the Glock disassembly tool or a punch, gently tap the locking block pin out, again from the left side of the frame. It may require some slight force, but be careful not to damage the frame.
Trigger Pin Removal
Now, turn your attention to the trigger pin. This pin is located directly above the trigger. Using your punch and the hammer if necessary, push the trigger pin out from the left side of the frame.
Trigger Mechanism Housing Pin Removal
After the trigger pin is removed, the focus shifts to the trigger mechanism housing pin. The trigger mechanism housing pin is located higher in the frame than the trigger pin. Using the punch, push the trigger mechanism housing pin out from the left side of the frame. This pin often takes a little more effort to remove.
Trigger Mechanism Housing Removal
With the trigger mechanism housing pin removed, you can carefully take out the trigger mechanism housing. Gently lift the housing upwards and out of the frame. This may require a little wiggling or maneuvering to get it past other parts.
Trigger, Trigger Bar, and Connector Removal
Now, you have access to the trigger and its related components. The trigger, the trigger bar, and the connector are all interlinked. Carefully remove these components from the frame. They should come out easily.
Firing Pin Safety Removal
After removing the trigger, trigger bar, and connector, you will need to remove the firing pin safety, also called the plunger safety, and its spring. These parts are located near the firing pin channel. Gently push the firing pin safety spring down and out, releasing the firing pin safety itself. These are small parts so extra care should be taken.
Extractor and Ejector Removal
Finally, remove the extractor and the ejector. These parts are found at the rear of the frame. The extractor can usually be removed without any special tools. The ejector is typically held in place by the trigger mechanism housing, so it will be removed when the housing is removed.
Inspection and Cleaning
As you disassemble the FCG, it’s a good time to take a close look at each component.
Cleaning the Components
Cleaning the components is a critical part of the process. Use the cleaning solvent or gun degreaser to remove all traces of oil, grease, carbon, and other debris. Apply the solvent or degreaser to a cleaning brush or patch and thoroughly clean each part. Pay close attention to areas where carbon tends to build up, such as the trigger bar, the connector, and the trigger pin. Clean the frame as well. Use brushes to remove any dirt, grime, or debris from the frame.
Component Inspection
Once everything is cleaned, examine each part carefully. Look for signs of wear, damage, or excessive use. This is where your keen observation comes into play.
Specifically inspect the trigger bar, the connector, the trigger spring, the firing pin safety, and the firing pin itself. These components are crucial for the proper function of the firearm.
Carefully examine the trigger bar for any signs of wear on its contact surfaces. This bar is a critical component in the firing mechanism. Ensure that the surfaces are smooth and free of damage.
Inspect the connector for any bending, damage, or wear. The connector controls the trigger pull and resets the trigger. A damaged connector can lead to malfunctions.
Check the trigger spring for any signs of corrosion, deformation, or breakage. The trigger spring provides the necessary tension to return the trigger to its forward position after firing.
The firing pin safety is important for preventing accidental discharge. Check for damage, wear, or any obstruction that might prevent it from functioning correctly.
The firing pin itself, also called the striker, is another critical component. Make sure it is not bent or broken, and that the tip is in good condition.
If you find any parts that are damaged, worn, or show signs of excessive use, replace them immediately. Continuing to use damaged parts can lead to malfunctions and could potentially be dangerous. A properly maintained Glock is one that is safer to use. If you are unsure about the condition of a part, consider seeking help from a qualified gunsmith. They are able to make expert recommendations and assist with repairs.
Reassembly Steps
Reassembly is essentially the reverse process of disassembly, carefully putting all the parts back together, and ensuring their function is correct.
Trigger, Trigger Bar, and Connector Installation
Start by carefully installing the trigger, trigger bar, and connector back into the frame. These parts need to be properly aligned and seated.
Trigger Mechanism Housing Installation
Then, install the trigger mechanism housing. Carefully align it and insert it into the frame.
Trigger Mechanism Housing Pin Installation
Next, insert the trigger mechanism housing pin. Make sure the pin is securely in place, and that the trigger mechanism housing is correctly secured.
Locking Block Pin Installation
Next, insert the locking block pin. Make sure the pin is fully seated in the frame.
Slide Lock Lever Installation
With these parts installed, now insert the slide lock lever.
Firing Pin Safety and Spring Installation
Finally, install the firing pin safety and spring. Be sure the spring is properly seated.
When reassembling, the correct placement of the parts is critical for the Glock to function properly.
Lubrication and Function Testing
Once the fire control group is reassembled, the correct application of lubricant is important. Use the gun oil or lubricant to lubricate all moving parts. Apply a small amount of lubricant to the trigger bar, the connector, the trigger spring, and the firing pin safety. Make sure to apply the lubricant sparingly, as excessive lubricant can attract dirt and debris.
Function Testing
Once reassembly is complete, testing is a necessary step to ensure that the fire control group is functioning correctly and safely.
First, function test the trigger. Pull the trigger and make sure it breaks cleanly and then resets properly.
Next, perform a dry-fire test. Always remember to keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. Rack the slide back, and then pull the trigger. If the trigger breaks, then reset, you know the firearm is functioning properly.
If the trigger doesn’t break or reset, that may indicate a problem. Reinspect the FCG and ensure that all the parts are correctly installed and properly aligned.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
While the Glock 19 is known for its reliability, issues can arise. Having a basic understanding of potential problems can be helpful.
One of the most common issues is the trigger not resetting. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including a dirty connector, a worn trigger bar, or an improperly installed spring.
Another common problem is light primer strikes. This occurs when the firing pin doesn’t strike the primer with sufficient force to ignite the cartridge. This can be caused by a weak firing pin spring or a dirty firing pin channel.
Failure to extract or eject can be a problem too. Make sure that the extractor is correctly installed and that the ejector is not damaged.
If you encounter any of these or any other issues, carefully re-examine the steps in the disassembly and reassembly process. Correct alignment of the parts, along with the correct use of tools, is essential.
If you are unable to determine the source of the problem, it is always best to seek professional help. A qualified gunsmith has the knowledge and expertise to diagnose and repair any issues. Do not risk your safety, or the safety of others, in the event of a malfunction.
Conclusion
This guide has outlined the steps necessary for disassembling, inspecting, and reassembling the Glock 19 fire control group. By carefully following these steps, you can maintain your Glock 19 and ensure its safe and reliable operation.
Remember to always prioritize safety, use the correct tools, and take your time throughout the process. Practice makes perfect. The more familiar you become with the fire control group, the easier it will be to maintain your firearm.
While this guide has provided detailed instructions, there are additional resources you can use to expand your knowledge. Glock manuals are invaluable resources. You can also consult with experienced gun owners or visit reputable online resources for additional tips and information.
Disclaimer
This information is provided for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional gunsmithing or expert instruction. Always exercise extreme caution when handling firearms and follow all applicable safety guidelines and regulations. The user assumes all responsibility for the actions taken based on the information provided.
