When it comes to maintaining your firearm, few tasks are as important as cleaning. A clean gun is a safe gun, and it will also perform more reliably than a dirty one. In this article, we will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to clean a Glock pistol. Whether you are a new gun owner or an experienced shooter, this guide will help you keep your Glock in top condition.
Before you begin cleaning your Glock, it is important to unload it and make sure that the chamber is empty. Once you have done this, you will need to gather your cleaning supplies. These supplies include:
- Cleaning rod
- Bore brush
- Patch holder
- Patches
- Cleaning solvent
- Lubricant
Now that you have your supplies gathered, you are ready to begin cleaning your Glock. The first step is to remove the slide from the frame. To do this, simply pull down on the slide release lever and then push the slide forward off of the frame.
Disassembling the Glock
When disassembling a Glock, safety should be your top priority. Always treat the firearm as if it were loaded, keep it pointed in a safe direction, and wear eye and hearing protection. To ensure proper disassembly, follow these steps meticulously:
Field Stripping
- Unload the Glock: Remove the magazine and verify that there is no round in the chamber by visually inspecting it and feeling for any obstructions.
- Lock the slide to the rear: Pull the slide back fully and engage the slide lock lever to keep the slide open.
- Remove the slide: Push the slide stop lever down and gently lift the slide forward off the frame.
- Remove the barrel: Holding the slide upside down, tilt the barrel up and slide it forward out of the slide.
- Remove the recoil spring assembly: Grasp the recoil spring assembly and pull it straight up and out of the slide.
- Remove the slide lock lever: Use a punch or small screwdriver to push the slide lock lever pin out of its hole. The slide lock lever can then be removed.
Detailed Disassembly
With field stripping complete, you can proceed with the detailed disassembly of the Glock. This process requires more specialized tools and should only be attempted by experienced gunsmiths or users who have received proper training.
Component Disassembly Instructions Trigger Assembly Requires a trigger housing pin punch to remove the trigger housing pin and detach the trigger assembly. Extractor Uses a specialized extractor depressor tool to detach the extractor from the slide. Striker Assembly Involves removing the firing pin safety, striker safety, and striker from the slide using appropriate tools. Preparing the Cleaning Solution
Creating an effective cleaning solution is crucial for maintaining your Glock’s optimal performance. Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing a safe and efficient cleaning solution:
Gathering the Necessary Materials
You will need the following materials:
Item Cleaning solvent or gun oil Distilled water (if using a solvent) Mixing container Soft cloth or cleaning patches Choosing the Right Cleaning Solvent
The selection of cleaning solvent depends on your personal preference and the condition of your Glock.
– CLP (Cleaner, Lubricant, Preservative): A versatile option that cleans, lubricates, and protects your Glock.
– Gun Oil: Primarily used for lubricating and protecting your Glock. It can also be used for light cleaning but may not be as effective as dedicated cleaning solvents.
– Hoppes No. 9: A traditional cleaning solvent that effectively removes powder residue and fouling. It does not contain lubricants, so additional lubrication is necessary after cleaning.
Mixing the Cleaning Solution
If using a cleaning solvent, mix it with distilled water according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Typically, a ratio of 1:10 (solvent to water) is recommended. For gun oil, no dilution is necessary.
Cleaning the Slide Assembly
To clean the slide assembly, first remove the barrel from the slide. To do this, hold the slide in one hand and the barrel in the other hand. Push down on the barrel lug and pull the barrel forward. Once the barrel is removed, you can clean it with a gun cleaning kit.
Once the barrel is clean, you can clean the slide assembly. To do this, you will need a cotton swab, a cleaning cloth, and a gun cleaning solvent. Apply the gun cleaning solvent to the cotton swab and wipe down the inside of the slide, taking care to clean the firing pin channel and the extractor groove. Once the slide is clean, wipe it down with a cleaning cloth.
Removing and Cleaning the Firing Pin Mechanism
1. Drift the Firing Pin Safety Out
Position the slide upside down, and locate the firing pin safety (FPS), which is a small, cylindrical part near the firing pin channel. Using a thin, tapered punch, carefully tap the FPS out of the slide from left to right.
2. Remove the Firing Pin and Extractor Assembly
With the FPS removed, invert the slide and hold it firmly. Gently shake the slide to loosen the firing pin and extractor assembly. They will slide out as a unit; do not attempt to disassemble them.
3. Thoroughly Clean the Components
Using a cotton swab soaked in cleaning solvent, carefully clean the firing pin, extractor, firing pin spring, firing pin safety, and their respective channels and surfaces in the slide. Pay particular attention to any carbon buildup or debris.
Component Cleaning Method Firing Pin Clean the tip and shaft with a cotton swab. Extractor Clean the hook and plunger with a cotton swab. Firing Pin Spring Clean the spring by wiping it gently with a solvent-soaked swab. Firing Pin Safety Clean the cylindrical surface and internal channel with a cotton swab. Slide Channels and Surfaces Wipe down with a solvent-soaked swab, removing any debris or buildup. Cleaning the Barrel
The barrel is the most important part of your Glock, so it’s important to keep it clean. Start by removing the slide from the frame. Then, use a bore snake to run through the barrel from the chamber end to the muzzle. Be sure to use a cleaning solvent to help loosen any dirt or debris. Once you’ve run the bore snake through the barrel, use a cotton swab to clean out the chamber. Finally, use a dry cloth to wipe down the barrel and remove any remaining solvent or debris.
Here are some additional tips for cleaning the barrel:
- Use a brass brush to remove any stubborn dirt or debris from the barrel.
- Never use steel wool or a metal brush to clean the barrel, as this can damage the finish.
- Be sure to clean the barrel regularly, especially after shooting corrosive ammunition.
- If you’re not comfortable cleaning the barrel yourself, you can take it to a gunsmith to have it professionally cleaned.
Cleaning the Barrel
Material Purpose Bore snake Removes dirt and debris from the barrel Cotton swab Cleans the chamber Dry cloth Wipes down the barrel and removes remaining solvent or debris Brass brush Removes stubborn dirt or debris from the barrel (optional) Gun cleaning solvent Helps loosen dirt or debris (optional) Lubricating the Glock
Proper lubrication is crucial for the reliable operation of your Glock pistol. Follow these steps to ensure optimal performance:
Lubrication Points
Lubrication is required at several key points on the Glock:
- Rails
- Barrel
- Lug
- Ejector
- Safety plunger
- Slide release
Selecting the Right Lubricant
Use a high-quality gun lubricant designed specifically for firearms. Avoid using household oils or petroleum-based products.
Applying Lubricant
Apply a small amount of lubricant to each lubrication point using a cotton swab or brush. Avoid over-lubrication, as this can attract dirt and debris.
Rails
Lubricate the rails on both the frame and the slide. Use a thin film of lubricant and ensure it is evenly distributed.
Barrel
Apply a small amount of lubricant to the barrel, ensuring it covers the entire surface. Avoid getting lubricant inside the bore.
Lug
Lubricate the lug on the barrel hood, which interacts with the slide’s ejection port. This will reduce friction and prevent premature wear.
Ejector
Apply a small amount of lubricant to the ejector to ensure smooth extraction of spent casings.
Safety Plunger
Lubricate the safety plunger on the trigger mechanism to ensure proper disengagement of the firing pin.
Slide Release
Lubricate the slide release to facilitate smooth operation and prevent jamming.
Reassembling the Glock
- Insert Barrel into Slide
Slide the barrel into the slide until it clicks into place at the front. Rotate the barrel until the barrel locking notches line up with the slide-locking block grooves.
- Insert Slide onto Frame
With the barrel in place, align the slide with the frame and carefully insert the slide assembly onto the frame.
- Insert Slide-Stop Spring into Slide
Find the slide-stop spring, which is a small, flat piece of metal. Insert it into the curved channel on the underside of the slide near the rear.
- Insert Slide-Stop into Slide
Locate the slide-stop and insert it into the slide assembly, ensuring it locks into place.
- Insert Slide Release Spring
Take the slide release spring (a small, U-shaped piece) and insert it into the frame, aligning it with the slide release hole.
- Insert Slide Release
Push the slide release into the frame until it snaps into place. Check that the slide moves smoothly back and forth.
- Insert Trigger Assembly into Frame
Grasp the trigger assembly by the trigger and insert it into the frame from the rear.
Rotate Trigger Housing Up Rotate the trigger housing up to align the locking block with the slide-locking block grooves. Ensure the trigger pin is correctly positioned in the slide and frame. Rotate Trigger Housing Down Gently rotate the trigger housing down until it latches into place with an audible click. Insert Trigger Pin Locate the trigger pin and insert it through the holes in the trigger, trigger housing, and frame. Ensure the pin is fully seated. Troubleshooting Cleaning Issues
9. Persistent Carbon Buildup
Possible Causes:
- Infrequent or improper cleaning
- Use of corrosive or abrasive cleaning agents
- Heavy lead bullet usage
Solutions:
a. Solvent Soak: Submerge affected parts in a bore solvent for several hours or overnight. This will help dissolve and loosen the carbon buildup.
b. Ultrasonic Cleaning: Utilize an ultrasonic cleaning machine to generate high-frequency vibrations in a solvent solution, effectively dislodging stubborn carbon deposits.
c. Chemical Cleaners: Resort to specialized chemical cleaners specifically designed for carbon removal. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions meticulously to avoid any damage to the firearm’s finish.
d. Copper and Lead Remover: If lead bullet usage is suspected, use a dedicated copper and lead remover solvent to dissolve and extract these fouling agents from the firearm.
e. Cotton Tipped Swabs: Dip moistened cotton swabs in solvent or chemical solution and gently scrub the areas with heavy carbon buildup. Avoid applying excessive pressure to prevent scratching.
f. Toothbrush: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to carefully brush away carbon deposits from intricate areas, such as the slide rails and firing pin channel.
g. Brass Brush: For particularly stubborn carbon buildup, employ a brass brush. Apply gentle strokes and avoid brushing against aluminum or polymer surfaces to prevent damage.
Storage and Maintenance
Properly storing and maintaining your Glock is crucial for its longevity and optimal performance.
Storage
Store your Glock in a cool, dry place to prevent corrosion and moisture buildup. Keep it away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your Glock functioning properly. Here’s a comprehensive guide to cleaning your Glock:
- Safety first: Unload the Glock, remove the magazine, and ensure the chamber is empty.
- Disassembly: Partially disassemble the Glock by removing the slide, barrel, and recoil spring assembly.
- Cleaning tools: Use a cleaning kit specifically designed for Glock pistols.
- Bore cleaning: Run a bronze bore brush dipped in solvent through the barrel to remove carbon and lead fouling.
- Chamber and slide cleaning: Wipe down the chamber and slide with solvent-soaked cotton patches.
- Extractor cleaning: Clean the extractor using a thin cleaning tool or a cotton swab dipped in solvent.
- Trigger mechanism cleaning: Remove the trigger housing and clean the trigger, sear, and connector using a toothbrush and solvent.
- Lubrication: Apply a few drops of high-quality gun oil to the moving parts of the Glock, such as the slide rails, trigger mechanism, and barrel.
- Reassembly: Carefully reassemble the Glock according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Cleaning frequency: Clean your Glock after every use to prevent the buildup of carbon and debris.
Cleaning Interval Routine Maintenance After every use Wipe down with solvent-soaked cloth Every 500 rounds fired Full disassembly and cleaning Annually Professional inspection and deep cleaning (by a gunsmith) How to Clean a Glock
Cleaning your Glock is an essential part of maintaining its functionality and accuracy. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your Glock performs its best every time you use it.
Step 1: Disassemble your Glock
Before you can clean your Glock, you need to disassemble it. To do this, you will need a Glock disassembly tool or a small flathead screwdriver. Insert the tool or screwdriver into the disassembly hole located at the rear of the slide. Pull the slide back about 1/4 inch and lift it up off the frame. Be careful not to lose the recoil spring assembly.
Step 2: Clean the barrel
The barrel is one of the most important parts of your Glock. It is responsible for firing the bullet and accuracy. To clean the barrel, you will need a cleaning rod, a patch, and a bore cleaner. Insert the cleaning rod into the barrel from the chamber end. Attach a patch to the end of the cleaning rod and wet it with bore cleaner. Insert the patch into the barrel and push it through from one end to the other. Repeat this process until the patch comes out clean.
Step 3: Clean the slide
The slide is responsible for cycling the action of the Glock. To clean the slide, you will need a cleaning cloth and some solvent. Wipe down the slide with the cleaning cloth to remove any dirt or debris. Apply a small amount of solvent to a clean cloth and wipe down the slide again. Be sure to get into all the nooks and crannies.
Step 4: Clean the frame
The frame is the main body of the Glock. It houses the trigger, sear, and other internal components. To clean the frame, you will need a cleaning cloth and some solvent. Wipe down the frame with the cleaning cloth to remove any dirt or debris. Apply a small amount of solvent to a clean cloth and wipe down the frame again. Be sure to get into all the nooks and crannies.
Step 5: Reassemble your Glock
Once you have cleaned all the parts of your Glock, it is time to reassemble it. To do this, simply reverse the steps that you used to disassemble it. When you are reassembling the Glock, be sure to apply a small amount of lubricant to the moving parts.
People Also Ask About How to Clean a Glock
How often should I clean my Glock?
You should clean your Glock after every use. If you are not able to clean your Glock after every use, you should at least clean it every few hundred rounds.
What type of cleaner should I use to clean my Glock?
You can use any type of gun cleaner to clean your Glock. However, it is important to avoid using cleaners that contain harsh chemicals, as these can damage the finish of your Glock.
What is the best way to clean the barrel of my Glock?
The best way to clean the barrel of your Glock is to use a cleaning rod and a patch. Insert the cleaning rod into the barrel from the chamber end and attach a patch to the end of the cleaning rod. Wet the patch with bore cleaner and insert it into the barrel. Push the patch through the barrel from one end to the other. Repeat this process until the patch comes out clean.
