How to Install Glock Sights (Step-by-Step Guide)

Installing new sights on your Glock can significantly improve accuracy, performance, and shooting experience. Whether you’re upgrading to night sights, fiber optics, or just prefer something different than the stock sights, this guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of installing Glock sights at home. Even if you’re not mechanically inclined, with the right tools and patience, you can easily install Glock sights yourself.

In this guide, we’ll cover the necessary tools, how to remove old sights, and how to properly install and align new sights on your Glock.

Why Install New Glock Sights?

While factory Glock sights are functional, many shooters prefer aftermarket options for enhanced precision and visibility. Here are some reasons why you might want to install new sights:

Better Accuracy: High-quality aftermarket sights can help you shoot more accurately by providing a clearer and more precise sight picture.
Improved Visibility: Night sights or fiber optic sights make it easier to see your sights in low-light conditions or bright sunlight.
Personal Preference: Some shooters prefer different sight styles, such as three-dot, two-dot, or U-notch configurations, depending on their shooting style.

Now that you know why new sights can be beneficial, let’s dive into how to install them.

Tools You’ll Need

Before getting started, make sure you have the following tools:

Glock Sight Pusher Tool: This is a specialized tool that makes removing and installing Glock sights easier and safer.
Front Sight Tool: A small hex or Glock front sight tool is necessary to remove and install the front sight screw.
Soft Mallet: A non-marring mallet helps in gently tapping out the rear sight if needed.
Thread Locker (Loctite): Using a small amount of Loctite helps secure the front sight screw in place and prevents it from loosening over time.
Bench Vise or Glock Sight Tool: A vise can be useful for holding the slide steady while you work on the sights.
Small Punch Tool: This can be used to push out the rear sight, although a sight pusher is recommended.

Optional but helpful:

Bench Mat: A mat will protect your Glock and the work surface from scratches.
Protective Gloves: To keep a firm grip and avoid slipping during the installation process.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Install Glock Sights

Step 1: Unload Your Glock

Safety is the number one priority when working with firearms. Before you start, make sure your Glock is completely unloaded:

Remove the magazine.
Lock the slide back and visually inspect the chamber to ensure it’s clear.
Release the slide and dry-fire the gun in a safe direction to release the striker.

Always double-check to ensure the gun is unloaded before proceeding.

Step 2: Disassemble the Slide from the Frame

To install the sights, you’ll need to remove the slide from the frame of the Glock:

Pull the slide back slightly (about a quarter-inch).
Simultaneously, pull down on the slide lock/takedown lever.
Release the slide forward off the frame.

Set the frame aside. You’ll be working with the slide only for the sight installation.

Step 3: Remove the Old Front Sight

The front sight on a Glock is secured with a small screw inside the slide. Here’s how to remove it:

Locate the Front Sight Screw: Turn the slide upside down, and you’ll see the small hex screw inside the front sight post.
Use the Front Sight Tool: Using the Glock front sight tool or a small hex driver, unscrew and remove the front sight screw.
Remove the Front Sight: Once the screw is out, you can lift the old front sight off the slide. It should come off easily.

Step 4: Remove the Rear Sight

Removing the rear sight can be a bit trickier, especially if it’s tightly fitted. You can either use a Glock sight pusher tool or a punch and mallet method. Here’s how to do it with both methods:

Using a Sight Pusher Tool:

Place the Slide in the Sight Pusher: Secure the slide in the Glock sight pusher tool, making sure the rear sight is aligned with the pusher block.
Turn the Sight Pusher: Rotate the tool’s handle or knob to push the rear sight out of its dovetail slot. It should slide out smoothly.

Using a Punch and Mallet:

Position the Slide: Secure the slide on a padded surface or bench vise.
Use a Punch Tool: Gently place a punch tool against the side of the rear sight.
Tap with a Mallet: Lightly tap the punch with a soft mallet to push the rear sight out of the dovetail. Be careful not to damage the slide.

Step 5: Clean the Slide

Once you’ve removed the old sights, it’s a good idea to clean the slide where the new sights will be installed. Use a soft cloth to wipe away any dirt, debris, or old thread locker from the front sight post hole and rear sight dovetail.

Step 6: Install the New Front Sight

Now that the old sights are out, it’s time to install the new front sight:

Position the Front Sight: Place the new front sight in the hole at the front of the slide. Hold it in place with one hand.
Apply Thread Locker: Before inserting the front sight screw, apply a small drop of blue Loctite (thread locker) to the screw to keep it secure.
Screw in the Front Sight: Using the Glock front sight tool or a small hex driver, carefully screw the front sight in place. Be sure to tighten it snugly but avoid overtightening, as this could damage the sight or screw.
Check Alignment: Once installed, check to ensure the front sight is perfectly aligned with the center of the slide. The sight should be perpendicular to the slide and centered.

Step 7: Install the New Rear Sight

Installing the rear sight is similar to the removal process but in reverse. You can use a sight pusher tool or a mallet and punch, depending on what’s available.

Using a Sight Pusher Tool:

Position the Rear Sight: Place the new rear sight into the dovetail slot on the slide.
Use the Sight Pusher: Carefully turn the sight pusher’s handle to slide the rear sight into place. Ensure that it’s centered as you push it in.
Final Adjustments: Once the sight is pushed all the way in, check its alignment to make sure it’s centered properly.

Using a Punch and Mallet:

Place the Rear Sight: Position the rear sight into the dovetail as much as you can by hand.
Gently Tap the Sight: Using a punch and soft mallet, gently tap the rear sight into place. Be sure to tap evenly and avoid excessive force.
Center the Sight: Once the rear sight is in place, check to ensure it’s centered. You may need to make minor adjustments to perfectly align it.

Step 8: Test the Sights for Alignment

With both sights installed, visually check the alignment by looking down the slide. The front and rear sights should form a clear, straight sight picture. The top of the front sight should be level with the top of the rear sight, and the sight dots (if applicable) should line up evenly.

If the sights appear off-center, you may need to make slight adjustments, especially with the rear sight. Use the sight pusher tool or punch and mallet to fine-tune the alignment.

Step 9: Reassemble the Glock

Once you’re satisfied with the alignment, reassemble your Glock by attaching the slide back to the frame:

Line up the rails on the slide with the grooves on the frame.
Pull the slide back until it locks into place.

Perform a quick function check to ensure everything is working correctly.

Step 10: Test Your New Sights at the Range

Now that your new sights are installed, it’s time to head to the range to test them out. Start by firing a few shots at a short distance (10-15 yards) to check the point of impact. If needed, you can make minor adjustments to the rear sight for windage (left and right) or the front sight for elevation (up and down).

After making any necessary adjustments, shoot a few more groups at various distances to confirm your sights are properly zeroed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overtightening the Front Sight Screw: Avoid overtightening the front sight screw, as this can strip the threads or damage the sight.
Forgetting Thread Locker: Always use a small amount of Loctite on the front sight screw to prevent it from loosening over time.
Not Using Proper Tools: Using improper tools, such as a hammer or metal punch, can damage your slide or sights. Invest in the right tools for a smooth installation.
Misaligning the Rear Sight: Double-check the alignment of your rear sight before heading to the range. A misaligned rear sight can cause accuracy issues.

Conclusion

Installing new sights on your Glock can seem intimidating, but with the right tools and this step-by-step guide, it’s a manageable DIY project. Whether you’re upgrading for better accuracy, improved visibility, or personal preference, installing Glock sights yourself can save you time and money. Just follow the steps carefully, use the correct tools, and double-check your alignment before heading to the range.