How To Install Ameriglo Sights On Glock 19

Upgrading the sights on your Glock 19 can significantly improve your shooting accuracy and confidence. Here's a step-by-step guide to installing Ameriglo sights, focusing on practical application and ensuring a successful outcome. This knowledge can be useful for gun owners, law enforcement personnel, and shooting sports enthusiasts who want to customize and enhance their firearms.

Preparation is Key

Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and create a safe workspace. A well-lit and organized area will make the process smoother and reduce the risk of errors. Here’s what you'll need:

Ameriglo sights (front and rear) for Glock 19
Sight pusher tool (specifically designed for Glock sights)
Gunsmithing hammer (nylon or brass)
Punch set (brass or nylon)
Masking tape or gunsmithing tape
Bench vise (optional, but highly recommended)
Cleaning supplies (gun solvent, patches, and brush)
Eye protection
Gloves (optional)

Verify that the firearm is unloaded before proceeding with any work. Remove the magazine and rack the slide multiple times to ensure there are no rounds in the chamber. Visually inspect the chamber to confirm it is empty.

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Removing the Existing Sights

Rear Sight Removal

Secure the slide in a bench vise using padded jaws to protect the finish. If you don't have a vise, you can carefully hold the slide, but a vise provides stability and reduces the risk of slippage.

Apply masking tape or gunsmithing tape around the rear sight to protect the surrounding area of the slide from scratches. This is a preventative measure that will help maintain the firearm’s value and appearance.

Using the sight pusher tool, carefully align the tool’s pusher with the rear sight. Ensure that the tool is making solid contact with the sight’s base and not the surrounding slide. Gradually apply pressure to push the sight out of the dovetail slot. It's usually best to push the sight out from left to right (when looking from the rear of the slide), but check your sight pusher tool's instructions.

If you don’t have a sight pusher, you can use a brass punch and gunsmithing hammer. Position the punch on the side of the sight and gently tap it with the hammer. Work slowly and deliberately, checking frequently to ensure you’re not damaging the sight or the slide. Remember small taps are more effective than trying to force the sight out with excessive force.

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Tip: Apply a small amount of penetrating oil to the dovetail before attempting to remove the sight. This can help loosen any corrosion or buildup that may be hindering the removal process.

Front Sight Removal

The front sight on a Glock is typically secured with a screw or nut on the underside of the slide. Locate this screw or nut inside the slide and use the appropriate tool (usually a Glock front sight tool, which is a specialized nut driver or screwdriver) to loosen and remove it.

Once the screw or nut is removed, the front sight should come free. If it’s stuck, gently tap it from the top using a nylon punch to dislodge it. Be careful not to scratch the slide during this process.

Installing the Ameriglo Sights

Rear Sight Installation

Clean the dovetail slot on the slide with gun solvent and a brush to remove any debris or residue. This will ensure a clean and secure fit for the new sight.

Apply masking tape or gunsmithing tape around the dovetail area, as you did during removal, to protect the slide.

Glock Ameriglo Night Sights Install - YouTube

Position the Ameriglo rear sight over the dovetail slot. Determine the correct direction for installation; usually, the sight will have a slight taper and should be installed from the right to the left (when looking from the rear of the slide).

Using the sight pusher tool, carefully push the rear sight into the dovetail slot. Ensure the sight is centered on the slide. Refer to your sight pusher tool's instructions for proper alignment and operation.

If you're using a brass punch and hammer, gently tap the sight into place. Work slowly and evenly, alternating taps between both sides of the sight to ensure it’s being driven in straight. Frequently check the sight’s position to make sure it’s centered.

Important: Do not overtighten or force the sight into the dovetail. This can damage the sight or the slide. The sight should fit snugly but not require excessive force.

Front Sight Installation

Clean the front sight mounting area on the slide with gun solvent and a brush.

GLOCK 19 & AMERIGLO SPARTAN NIGHT SIGHTS - YouTube

Place the Ameriglo front sight into its slot on the slide. Align the sight properly with the slide.

Apply a small drop of thread locker (such as Loctite) to the front sight screw or nut. This will help prevent it from loosening during use.

Secure the front sight with the screw or nut using the Glock front sight tool. Tighten it to the manufacturer's recommended torque specification. If you don't have a torque wrench, tighten it snugly but avoid overtightening.

Final Checks and Adjustments

Visually inspect both the front and rear sights to ensure they are properly aligned and securely installed. Check the sight picture by aiming at a target and verifying that the sights are aligned correctly.

Rack the slide several times to ensure the sights are not interfering with the firearm’s operation.

Head to the range and test fire the Glock to confirm that the new sights are properly zeroed. Make any necessary adjustments to the rear sight to correct windage.

Clean the firearm thoroughly after installation and test firing.

Applying This Knowledge

Understanding how to install sights is beneficial in several ways. You can customize your firearm to your specific preferences, improving accuracy and speed. It saves you money on gunsmithing fees and gives you more control over your firearm's configuration. This skill is particularly useful for law enforcement officers or competitive shooters who require precise adjustments to their weapons.