The Glock 19 is a popular handgun known for its reliability and ease of maintenance. Regular cleaning and field stripping are crucial for keeping your Glock 19 in top condition, ensuring its longevity and reliable performance. This guide will walk you through the process of field stripping your Glock 19 safely and effectively. Remember, always practice safe gun handling techniques and ensure your firearm is unloaded before beginning any maintenance.
Tools You'll Need
Before you begin, gather the following tools:
- Your Glock 19: Make absolutely sure it's unloaded and the magazine is removed. Visually inspect the chamber to confirm it's empty.
- A cleaning rod: Essential for cleaning the barrel.
- Cleaning patches: To remove residue from the barrel.
- Gun cleaning solvent: To dissolve fouling.
- Gun oil: To lubricate moving parts.
- A soft cloth: For wiping down the firearm.
While not strictly required for field stripping, these tools are vital for the subsequent cleaning process.
Step-by-Step Field Stripping Instructions
Follow these steps carefully to field strip your Glock 19:
1. Point the Gun in a Safe Direction: This is paramount. Always point your firearm in a safe direction, preferably downrange at a safe backstop.
2. Remove the Magazine: Make absolutely certain the magazine is removed from the Glock 19.
3. Lock the Slide to the Rear: Using your dominant hand, firmly grasp the slide serrations and pull the slide back until it locks into the rearward position.
4. Depress the Take-Down Lever: Locate the take-down lever (it's a small lever located on the left side of the frame, just above the trigger guard). Using your index finger or thumb, depress the take-down lever.
5. Remove the Slide: With the take-down lever depressed, gently tilt the slide forward and lift it off the frame. The recoil spring assembly will come out with the slide.
6. Remove the Recoil Spring Assembly: The recoil spring assembly is easily removed by pulling it straight off the barrel.
7. Separate the Barrel: The barrel will now be free of the slide. Gently remove it from the slide.
Congratulations! You have successfully field stripped your Glock 19.
Cleaning Your Glock 19
Now that your Glock 19 is field stripped, you can clean it thoroughly. Use your cleaning rod, patches, solvent, and oil to clean the barrel, chamber, and other components. Pay attention to any areas with visible fouling or residue. After cleaning, reassemble your Glock 19, following the steps in reverse order.
Reassembly
Reassembling your Glock 19 is simply the reverse of the field stripping process. Insert the barrel back into the slide, carefully replace the recoil spring assembly onto the barrel, and align the slide with the frame and let it close. Make sure to engage the take down lever and that everything is smoothly functioning before storing your firearm.
Important Safety Reminders
- Always handle firearms responsibly. Never point a firearm at anything you are not willing to destroy.
- Always ensure your firearm is unloaded before handling it. Visually and physically inspect the chamber.
- If you're unsure about any step, seek assistance from a qualified gunsmith.
This guide provides a basic understanding of field stripping a Glock 19. Regular cleaning and maintenance will keep your handgun functioning reliably for years to come. Remember to consult your Glock 19's owner's manual for additional details and safety information.
