How Does My Glock Work by Cutaway G17 Gen 4

Published on June 29, 2018
Duration: 15:45

This guide details the operation of a Glock G17 Gen 4's 'Safe Action' system using a cutaway model. It explains the function of the three internal safeties (trigger safety, firing pin block, drop safety) and how they disengage sequentially during the trigger pull. The guide also illustrates the unlocking process, extraction, ejection, and re-chambering cycle, emphasizing the importance of understanding these mechanisms for troubleshooting and safe handling.

Quick Summary

Glock pistols utilize a 'Safe Action' system with three internal safeties: the trigger safety, firing pin block, and drop safety. These safeties disengage sequentially as the trigger is pulled rearward, with the drop safety being the last to disengage, releasing the striker only when the trigger is fully actuated.

Chapters

  1. 00:03Introduction to Glock Operation
  2. 00:35Glock's 'Safe Action' System
  3. 00:45Dummy Ammunition and Firing Pin
  4. 01:31Magazine Design
  5. 01:51Internal Components Overview
  6. 02:34The Three Internal Safeties
  7. 02:45Trigger Safety Explained
  8. 03:00Firing Pin Block Explained
  9. 03:25Drop Safety Explained
  10. 04:16Unlocking Process
  11. 04:46Extractor Function
  12. 05:05Striker in Cocked Position
  13. 05:13Ejector Function
  14. 05:32Cycle of Operations Recap
  15. 05:47The Connector and Trigger Bar
  16. 06:11Trigger Pull Weight Factors
  17. 06:47Lock Position and Firing Sequence
  18. 07:09Trigger Pull and Safety Disengagement
  19. 07:43Final Release of Drop Safety
  20. 07:55Post-Firing Unlocking and Ejection
  21. 08:27Re-engagement of Safeties
  22. 08:41Glock Gen 4 Model 17 Specifics
  23. 08:51Value for Armorers and Troubleshooting
  24. 09:21Loading and Unloading Precautions
  25. 10:23Underwater Frames and Firing Pin Cups
  26. 11:06HD Extractor (Gen 3-5)
  27. 11:22Importance of Understanding the Connector
  28. 11:59Aftermarket Parts and Reliability Concerns
  29. 12:22Balance of Internal Components
  30. 13:27Springs and Counteraction
  31. 13:47Barrel Considerations (Lead vs. Standard)
  32. 14:41Forensic Examiner's Perspective on Barrels
  33. 15:01Soapbox: Aftermarket Parts on Carry Guns
  34. 15:25System Reliability
  35. 15:29Conclusion and Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the three safeties on a Glock pistol?

A Glock pistol features three internal safeties that operate sequentially. These are the trigger safety, which must be depressed by pulling the trigger rearward; the firing pin block, which is lifted by the trigger bar; and the drop safety, which prevents accidental discharge if the firearm is dropped and is disengaged only when the trigger is pulled fully to the rear.

How does the 'Safe Action' system on a Glock work?

The 'Safe Action' system on a Glock is a proprietary mechanism. As the trigger is pulled, the trigger safety disengages, followed by the firing pin block. Only when the trigger is pulled completely to its rearward limit does the connector disengage the drop safety, releasing the striker to fire the pistol.

Why is it not recommended to drop a round into the chamber of a Glock?

Dropping a round directly into the chamber of a Glock and releasing the slide is not recommended because the extractor is not designed to snap over the rim in this scenario. This can damage the cartridge rim and potentially the extractor over time, compromising reliability.

What factors influence the trigger pull weight on a Glock?

The trigger pull weight on a Glock is influenced by the connector and the trigger return spring. The angle of the connector plays a significant role; a steeper angle generally results in a lighter trigger pull, while a shallower angle leads to a heavier pull. The type and tension of the trigger return spring also contribute.

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