8 Common Glock 19 Gen 5 Problems (With Easy Fixes)

The Glock 19 Gen 5 is a reliable and popular handgun, but like any firearm, it’s not without its quirks.

From ejection issues to trigger concerns, some users encounter certain Glock 19 Gen 5 problems that can disrupt performance.

Don’t worry most of these issues are easy to fix, keeping your firearm in top shape for years to come!

Table of Contents

Glock 19 Gen 5 Problems (Short Overview)

The Glock 19 Gen 5 has a few common problems, like erratic ejection, inconsistent trigger feel, and slide lock issues.

These can be frustrating, but most fixes are quick and simple.

With a little care and attention, you can keep your Glock 19 Gen 5 firing smoothly and reliably!

1. Failure to Feed (FTF)

Cause
Failure to feed typically results from magazine issues, including worn magazine springs, damaged magazine lips, or using low-quality ammunition.

Improper grip technique that interferes with slide operation can also contribute to this problem.

Additionally, a dirty or insufficiently lubricated chamber may cause feeding issues.

Fixes
Replace worn magazine springs and inspect magazine lips for damage or deformation. Use high-quality, properly sized ammunition that meets manufacturer specifications.

Clean the chamber thoroughly and apply appropriate lubrication to ensure smooth cartridge feeding.

Practice proper grip technique to avoid interfering with slide movement.

2. Failure to Extract

Cause
This problem often stems from a worn or damaged extractor that cannot maintain proper grip on the cartridge rim.

Excessive fouling in the chamber or on the extractor can also prevent proper extraction.

Using ammunition with soft brass cases or incorrect specifications may contribute to extraction failures.

Fixes
Inspect the extractor for wear, damage, or excessive fouling and clean thoroughly. If the extractor shows significant wear, replacement may be necessary.

Ensure the chamber is clean and free of debris that could interfere with extraction.

Use quality ammunition with proper case hardness and specifications for your firearm.

3. Light Primer Strikes

Cause
Light primer strikes usually result from a worn firing pin spring that doesn’t provide adequate force.

A dirty firing pin channel can also impede firing pin movement. Hard primers on certain ammunition types may require more force than a worn spring can provide.

Fixes
Replace the firing pin spring with a new factory part to restore proper striking force.

Clean the firing pin channel thoroughly to remove any debris or fouling.

Consider switching ammunition brands if the problem persists, as some primers require more force to ignite reliably.

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4. Trigger Reset Issues

Cause
Trigger reset issues often result from a worn or damaged trigger spring that lacks sufficient tension.

Debris or fouling in the trigger mechanism can also prevent proper reset. Aftermarket trigger modifications that alter spring tension may contribute to this problem.

Fixes
Replace the trigger spring with a factory part to restore proper reset function.

Disassemble and clean the trigger mechanism thoroughly, removing any debris or buildup.

If aftermarket parts are installed, consider returning to factory specifications to ensure reliable operation.

5. Slide Not Locking Back

Cause
This issue typically occurs due to a worn slide stop lever or spring that cannot maintain engagement with the follower.

A damaged magazine follower may not rise high enough to activate the slide stop.

Shooter grip interference with the slide stop lever can also prevent proper function.

Fixes
Inspect and replace worn slide stop components as needed. Check magazine followers for damage and replace defective magazines.

Adjust grip technique to avoid contact with the slide stop lever during firing. Ensure magazines are properly seated and functioning correctly.

6. Ejection Pattern Problems

Cause
Ejection problems often stem from a worn or improperly tensioned extractor that doesn’t maintain consistent grip on cases.

A damaged or worn ejector can also affect ejection timing and direction.

Ammunition variations may contribute to inconsistent ejection patterns.

Fixes
Inspect the extractor for proper tension and replace if worn or damaged. Check the ejector for wear or damage and replace if necessary.

Test different ammunition types to determine if the problem is ammunition-related.

Ensure proper lubrication of all moving parts involved in the extraction and ejection process.

7. Magazine Release Malfunctions

Cause
Magazine release issues typically result from worn magazine release springs or damaged release buttons.

Debris or fouling in the magazine release mechanism can also prevent proper function.

Over-lubrication may attract dirt and cause the mechanism to stick.

Fixes
Replace worn magazine release springs and inspect the release button for damage.

Clean the magazine release mechanism thoroughly and apply light lubrication.

Avoid over-lubrication that may attract debris. Ensure magazines are compatible and properly fitted to the pistol.

8. Accuracy Issues

Cause
Accuracy problems often stem from worn barrel rifling or crown damage that affects bullet stability. Loose or damaged sights can cause point of impact shifts.

Poor ammunition quality or incorrect ammunition selection may also contribute to accuracy issues.

Fixes
Inspect the barrel for wear, damage, or fouling and clean thoroughly. Check sight alignment and tightness, adjusting or replacing as necessary.

Test different ammunition types to find what shoots most accurately in your pistol.

Consider professional barrel inspection if accuracy continues to deteriorate.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How often should I clean my Glock 19 Gen 5?

Clean your Glock after every shooting session or at least every 500 rounds fired. Regular cleaning prevents most common problems and ensures reliable operation.

2. What type of ammunition works best in the Glock 19 Gen 5?

Use high-quality factory ammunition in 9mm Luger with bullet weights between 115-147 grains. Avoid reloaded ammunition unless you’re experienced with proper loading techniques.

3. Can I fix most Glock problems myself?

Many common issues can be resolved with basic cleaning and parts replacement. However, complex problems may require professional gunsmith attention for safety reasons.

4. How long do Glock magazines typically last?

Quality Glock magazines can last for thousands of rounds with proper care. Replace magazines when springs weaken or feed lips become damaged.

5. When should I replace my Glock’s recoil spring?

Replace the recoil spring every 5,000-8,000 rounds or when you notice decreased reliability. A worn spring can contribute to various cycling problems.

Keep Your Glock Running Smoothly

Understanding these common Glock 19 Gen 5 problems and their solutions helps ensure your pistol remains reliable when you need it most.

Regular maintenance, quality ammunition, and prompt attention to developing issues will keep your Glock functioning properly for years to come.

Most problems can be prevented through proper cleaning and maintenance schedules. When issues do arise, addressing them quickly prevents minor problems from becoming major malfunctions.