The Glock 19: A Staple in the Handgun World
The Glock 19. It’s more than just a firearm; it’s an icon. Celebrated for its reliability, simplicity, and ease of use, it’s become a favorite among law enforcement, military personnel, and civilian shooters alike. But even the most dependable firearms occasionally require maintenance, upgrades, or customization. One common task that gun owners often undertake is removing the rear sight. Whether you’re looking to install a new sight, repair a damaged one, or simply personalize your Glock 19, understanding how to remove the rear sight is a valuable skill.
Safety Above All Else!
Before we dive into the process, let’s make one thing crystal clear: safety is paramount. Working with firearms demands the utmost respect and adherence to safety protocols. This guide is for informational purposes only, and it does not substitute for professional gunsmithing services. If you’re not entirely comfortable with this process, it’s always best to seek the help of a qualified gunsmith.
Clearing Your Glock 19: The First and Most Critical Step
The most crucial safety precaution is ensuring your Glock 19 is completely unloaded. Follow these steps meticulously:
- Remove the Magazine: Press the magazine release button and firmly remove the magazine from the grip.
- Visual Inspection: Point the firearm in a safe direction, ensuring the muzzle is away from any people or objects. Then, pull back the slide and visually inspect the chamber. Ensure that there’s no cartridge present.
- Physical Inspection: After the visual inspection, perform a physical check by inserting a finger or cleaning rod into the chamber to confirm it’s empty.
- Confirm Empty: Lock the slide to the rear (typically using the slide lock lever) to be absolutely sure the chamber is clear.
Important Reminder: Always treat every firearm as if it’s loaded, even after performing these checks. Never point the muzzle at anything you’re not willing to destroy.
Safety Gear for Your Eyes and Hands
Always wear appropriate safety glasses to protect your eyes from any potential debris that could fly off. Gloves can also protect your hands, but ensure they don’t hinder your grip on tools.
Essential Tools and Materials
Now that we’ve established safety, let’s gather the necessary tools and materials. Having the right equipment is crucial for a smooth and successful rear sight removal.
- The Glock 19 (Unloaded and Safe): This is the firearm you’re working on, so ensure it’s properly cleared, as previously discussed.
- A Sight Pusher Tool: This is the best tool for the job, hands down. A sight pusher is specifically designed to remove and install sights without damaging your slide or sight. There are many different models, but the basic principle remains the same. You mount the slide, align the pusher with the rear sight, and apply pressure to drive it out.
- A Brass or Nylon Punch: If you don’t have a sight pusher, a brass or nylon punch is your next best option. These punches are softer than steel, so they’re less likely to scratch or damage your slide.
- A Small Hammer: If using a punch, you’ll need a small hammer to gently tap the punch and drive the sight out.
- A Bench Block or Padded Surface: This is essential for supporting the slide and preventing damage. A bench block is a dedicated tool with grooves and cutouts designed to hold a slide securely. A padded surface, like a piece of wood covered with a soft cloth, will also work.
- Optional: Gunsmith Screwdriver or Small Pick: These can be helpful for removing the extractor from the slide if it interferes with the sight removal process.
- Optional: Lubricant (Gun Oil): Sometimes, sights can be stubborn. A small amount of gun oil can help to loosen the sight before you attempt to remove it.
Getting Ready: Preparation for the Removal
Before you begin, prepare your workspace. Make sure you have adequate lighting and a clean, uncluttered area. Organize your tools and materials so they’re easily accessible. Now, let’s proceed with the removal process.
The Sight Pusher Method: A Precise Approach
Using a sight pusher is generally the easiest and most reliable method. Here’s how to do it:
- Secure the Slide: Mount the unloaded Glock 19 slide in the sight pusher according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Most sight pushers have adjustable jaws or clamps that secure the slide firmly without causing damage. Ensure the slide is oriented in the pusher so that the rear sight is facing the direction the pusher will move it.
- Align the Pusher: Carefully align the pusher’s contact point with the side of the rear sight. The goal is to apply even pressure directly to the sight, driving it out of the dovetail. Double-check that everything is aligned.
- Apply Pressure: Slowly and steadily tighten the sight pusher. As you turn the handle or mechanism, the pusher will apply pressure to the sight. Don’t force it too quickly. Be patient.
- Loosen if Necessary: If the sight is tightly seated, a small amount of lubricant (like gun oil) can sometimes help. Apply a drop or two to the dovetail where the sight sits. You may also need to slightly loosen the sight pusher and re-align it.
- Continue Pushing: As the sight starts to move, continue turning the handle or mechanism. Monitor the progress closely. The sight should gradually move out of the dovetail.
- Watch for Obstacles: Sometimes, the extractor (the part that pulls the spent casing from the chamber) can interfere with the sight removal. If this happens, you might need to remove the extractor first. Consult your Glock 19 manual, or research online for instructions on removing the extractor.
- Removal Complete: Once the sight is fully pushed out of the dovetail, carefully remove the slide from the sight pusher. You’ve successfully removed the rear sight on your Glock 19!
Alternative Method: Using a Punch and Hammer
If you don’t have a sight pusher, a punch and hammer can work, but it requires more care and precision.
- Secure the Slide: Place the slide on a bench block or a padded surface. Ensure the dovetail where the rear sight sits is oriented in a way that you can drive the sight out from the side. Remember: sights are usually installed from left to right, when looking down the slide.
- Position the Punch: Place the brass or nylon punch against the side of the rear sight. Position the punch as close as possible to the base of the sight, where it contacts the slide.
- Tapping the Sight: Gently tap the punch with your small hammer. Use controlled, deliberate strikes. Avoid using excessive force, as this can damage the slide or sight.
- Inch by Inch: With each tap, the sight should start to move. Monitor the progress and adjust the position of the punch as needed. Work your way across the sight bit by bit.
- Patience is Key: If the sight doesn’t move easily, consider applying some gun oil to the dovetail.
- Keep Going: Continue tapping and pushing until the sight is fully removed.
- Obstacle Considerations: As with the sight pusher method, the extractor can sometimes cause an issue. Refer back to any of the previous steps about the extractor.
- Job Done: Once the sight is removed, congratulations! You’ve successfully removed your Glock 19 rear sight using this method.
Post-Removal Steps: Cleaning and Inspection
Now that the rear sight is removed, it’s essential to inspect the slide and clean the dovetail.
- Inspect the Dovetail: Carefully examine the dovetail where the sight was located. Look for any damage, burrs, or imperfections. Remove any rust or debris.
- Cleaning the Dovetail: Clean the dovetail with a suitable gun cleaner. Remove any dirt, debris, or old lubricant.
- Optional Lubrication: If you plan to install a new sight, you can apply a small amount of gun oil or lubricant to the dovetail. This can help the new sight slide in more easily.
What About Installing the New Sight?
Installing the new rear sight is a similar process to removal, only in reverse. The same tools and methods apply. It’s essential to get the alignment right. If you have the appropriate tool, get the sight pusher tool. Otherwise, use the hammer and punch technique.
Addressing Issues and Problems
Sometimes, things don’t go as planned. Here are some common troubleshooting tips:
- If the Sight Refuses to Budge: Double-check the alignment of your sight pusher or punch. Ensure you’re applying pressure in the correct direction. If the sight is still stuck, try applying more pressure (with the pusher) or tapping more firmly (with the punch). You might need to use a penetrating oil.
- Damaged Sight: If you accidentally damage the sight during removal, it is time to replace it.
- Seek Professional Help: If you’re struggling or unsure about any step, it’s always better to consult with a qualified gunsmith.
Wrapping Up: The Path Forward
Removing the rear sight on your Glock 19 is a manageable task with the right tools, information, and a commitment to safety. Remember to always prioritize safety, take your time, and never force any step of the process.
Now that you know how to remove the rear sight on your Glock 19, you are well on your way to personalizing and upgrading your firearm! From installing new sights to enhancing accuracy or improving the aesthetics, the possibilities are endless. Always do your research and consult with a qualified gunsmith to guarantee your satisfaction.
