Introduction
The Glock 19. It’s more than just a handgun; it’s a legend. Revered for its reliability, simplicity, and ease of use, the Glock 19 has become a staple for law enforcement, military personnel, and civilian shooters alike. Its popularity stems from a combination of factors: its compact size, substantial magazine capacity, and a design philosophy that emphasizes functionality over frills. But even a masterpiece like the Glock 19 can be improved. One of the most common areas for enhancement is the trigger. The trigger is the crucial link between the shooter and the firearm, directly impacting accuracy and control. A smooth, predictable trigger pull can dramatically improve a shooter’s performance, allowing for faster and more accurate follow-up shots.
This is where aftermarket parts like the Ghost Connector come into play. The Ghost Connector is designed to refine the factory trigger system, potentially leading to a more satisfying and efficient shooting experience. This article dives deep into the world of the Glock 19 Ghost Connector. We’ll explore its function, the purported benefits it offers, provide guidance on installation, and address the potential considerations involved. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter looking to optimize your Glock 19 or a newcomer eager to learn, this guide will provide you with the knowledge needed to make an informed decision.
Understanding the Glock Trigger and Connector
Before we dissect the Ghost Connector, it’s essential to understand the underlying mechanics of the Glock trigger system. The Glock trigger is a striker-fired system, meaning that a spring-loaded firing pin (striker) is released when the trigger is pulled. This system is known for its relative simplicity and inherent safety features. The trigger pull on a Glock is often described as having a “safe action” because the trigger must be fully depressed for the firing pin to release.
At the heart of this system lies the connector. The connector is a small, angled piece of metal located within the trigger mechanism. Its primary function is to engage and release the firing pin, allowing the gun to fire. The angle of the connector is a critical factor that determines the trigger pull weight and feel. The factory Glock connector, designed for reliability and safety, often results in a trigger pull that some shooters find less than ideal. This can manifest in several ways: a slightly heavier pull weight, a perceived “grittiness” or friction, and a longer trigger reset, the distance the trigger must travel forward to be ready for the next shot. These are common concerns that shooters often address in an attempt to maximize their shooting experience.
What is the Ghost Connector?
So, what exactly is the Ghost Connector? It’s an aftermarket component designed to replace the factory-installed connector in your Glock 19. The core concept is simple: by modifying the angle and design of the connector, you can alter the trigger pull characteristics. These modifications aim to provide a smoother, lighter, and more responsive trigger.
There isn’t just one single “Ghost Connector.” The market offers various models, each with subtle variations in design and intended performance. Common examples include the Ghost Rocket, Ghost Ultimate, and Ghost Evo Elite. Each model has a slightly different angle and configuration to fine-tune the trigger characteristics.
The primary goal of these connectors is to improve the trigger pull. This means reducing the amount of force required to fire the gun (pull weight), minimizing any friction or “grittiness” felt during the pull, and shortening the trigger reset. A shorter reset means the trigger needs to travel a shorter distance forward to prepare for the next shot, enabling faster follow-up shots and a better overall shooting experience.
Benefits of Using a Ghost Connector
Let’s explore the potential advantages of installing a Ghost Connector in your Glock 19. Keep in mind that these benefits can vary depending on the specific model of Ghost Connector you choose and your personal shooting style and preferences.
Smoother Trigger Pull
One of the most reported improvements is a noticeably smoother trigger pull. The refined angles and polishing of the aftermarket connectors often eliminate the gritty feel that can sometimes be present in the factory trigger. A smooth trigger pull contributes significantly to consistent shot placement.
Reduced Trigger Pull Weight
Many Ghost Connectors are designed to lighten the trigger pull weight. This is achieved by altering the angle of the connector, which reduces the amount of force needed to disengage the firing pin. While the exact reduction varies, a lighter pull can improve accuracy, particularly for shooters with smaller hands or those who find the factory trigger too heavy.
Faster and Shorter Reset
The trigger reset is the distance the trigger must travel forward to be ready to fire again. Ghost Connectors can often shorten the reset distance, allowing for faster follow-up shots. A shorter reset enables the shooter to keep their focus on the target and quickly get back on target after each shot, improving overall shooting speed and efficiency, making it ideal for self-defense situations and competitive shooting.
Potential for Improved Accuracy
While the Ghost Connector isn’t a magic bullet, a smoother and lighter trigger pull can enhance accuracy. By minimizing any unwanted movement or jerking during the trigger pull, shooters may find themselves able to maintain a more stable sight picture and achieve more consistent groupings. This assumes, of course, that the shooter already possesses fundamental marksmanship skills.
Easier Follow-Up Shots
The combined effect of a smoother, lighter trigger with a faster reset frequently translates into easier follow-up shots. A quicker reset allows shooters to maintain their sight picture and get back on target faster, improving overall shooting speed and efficiency, making it ideal for self-defense situations and competitive shooting.
Installing the Ghost Connector
**Important Disclaimer:** Before proceeding, it is crucial to emphasize gun safety. Disassembling and reassembling a firearm can be dangerous if not done correctly. Always ensure your firearm is unloaded and the magazine is removed before starting any work. If you are uncomfortable performing this procedure, seek the assistance of a qualified gunsmith.
To install a Ghost Connector, you’ll need a few basic tools and materials:
- A Glock 19 (obviously!)
- A Glock Disassembly Tool (or a punch and a small hammer)
- A small, non-marring punch (plastic or nylon)
- A clean workspace
- Safety Glasses
Follow these general steps to install the Ghost Connector:
- **Unload and Inspect:** Double-check that the firearm is unloaded by removing the magazine and visually inspecting the chamber.
- **Field Strip the Glock 19:** Disassemble the slide from the frame. The disassembly tool is very useful here. Depress the slide stop and pull the slide forward.
- **Remove the Slide Components:** Remove the barrel, recoil spring assembly, and the firing pin assembly from the slide.
- **Remove the Trigger Housing Pin:** Use the Glock disassembly tool or the punch to push out the trigger housing pin, located in the frame.
- **Remove the Trigger Mechanism:** The trigger housing will now be removed from the frame. Carefully remove the trigger mechanism housing and the trigger bar.
- **Remove the Factory Connector:** Locate the factory connector (it’s a small angled piece) within the trigger mechanism housing. It should easily slide out.
- **Install the Ghost Connector:** Insert the Ghost Connector into the same slot. Ensure it’s properly seated.
- **Reassemble the Trigger Mechanism:** Reassemble the trigger mechanism housing into the frame. Replace the trigger housing pin.
- **Reassemble the Slide:** Reinstall the slide onto the frame.
- **Function Check:** Perform a thorough function check to ensure everything is working correctly. Dry-fire the gun several times, checking for proper trigger pull, reset, and firing pin function.
Potential Downsides and Considerations
While the Ghost Connector can offer several benefits, it’s essential to be aware of potential downsides and consider certain factors before making the modification.
Legal Implications
Local laws and regulations surrounding trigger modifications vary. Always check your local and state regulations to ensure that the Ghost Connector is permitted in your area and for your intended use. This is particularly important for law enforcement or competitive shooting.
Reliability Concerns
While most Ghost Connectors are designed to function reliably, some users have reported potential reliability issues. These can be related to the aftermarket parts being made of less-than-ideal quality, or if the connector is not correctly installed. Proper installation and regular function checks are crucial.
Safety Concerns
Any modification to a firearm carries inherent safety risks. Improper installation or a poorly made part can compromise the safety features of the Glock. Always prioritize safe gun handling practices, including keeping your finger off the trigger until you are ready to fire, and always pointing the firearm in a safe direction.
Not a Magic Bullet
The Ghost Connector alone will not magically transform a poor shooter into a marksman. While it can contribute to improved accuracy, the shooter’s skills, fundamentals, and training are the most crucial elements.
Warranty Implications
Modifying your Glock 19 with an aftermarket part may void the manufacturer’s warranty. This is something to consider, especially if you purchased the firearm recently.
Types of Ghost Connectors & Overview of Popular Models
Several different Ghost Connector models are available, each designed with a slightly different purpose. Here are some of the common variations:
Ghost Rocket
The Rocket connector is often marketed as a good balance between trigger pull weight reduction and reliability. It provides a smoother and lighter trigger pull compared to the factory connector, but with a focus on maintaining the inherent safety features of the Glock. It’s a popular choice for shooters who want a noticeable improvement without drastic changes.
Ghost Ultimate
The Ultimate connector is designed to deliver a lighter trigger pull compared to the Rocket. The Ghost Ultimate frequently features an enhanced angle design to provide a clean break and a faster reset.
Ghost Evo Elite
The Evo Elite is one of the more premium models and is designed for shooters who prioritize the lightest possible trigger pull and shortest reset. It is usually geared toward experienced shooters and those involved in competition shooting.
Alternative Options and Considerations
While the Ghost Connector is a popular choice, other options are available if you’re looking to upgrade your Glock 19’s trigger. These might include:
Competing Aftermarket Connectors
Several other companies, such as Apex Tactical, produce their own connectors with similar goals: a smoother and lighter trigger pull.
Trigger Springs and Trigger Bars
Modifying the trigger springs or the trigger bar is an alternative method of improving the trigger feel and weight.
Proper Gun Handling and Training
While aftermarket parts can enhance performance, proper training and consistent practice are essential for improving your shooting skills.
Conclusion
The Glock 19 Ghost Connector is a popular upgrade that can enhance the trigger pull characteristics of your firearm. The main advantages include a smoother and lighter trigger pull and a quicker and shorter reset. This leads to potential improvement in accuracy and faster follow-up shots. However, it’s essential to consider the potential downsides. Always prioritize safety, research local regulations, and ensure the proper installation of the component. The Ghost Connector is only one piece of the puzzle. The shooter’s fundamentals, skills, and training are equally, if not more, important. Whether a Ghost Connector is the right choice for you depends on your individual needs, your experience, and your desired level of performance. Remember to always handle firearms responsibly and follow all applicable laws.
