Removing Your Old Sights
Most Glock sights come off by pushing them out from the side of the slide using a sight pusher tool or a brass punch. The front sight pushes toward the rear of the gun; the rear sight pushes toward the front. You need a tool because the sights are pressed on tight, and trying to tap them out with a hammer and steel punch will damage the slide.
A sight pusher is a metal clamp that holds your Glock's slide steady while you turn a screw to push the sight out. You can buy one for $30 to $60, or rent one from a gunsmith for $10 to $15. If you do not have access to a pusher, a gunsmith can remove the old sights for $15 to $30 and install new ones for another $15 to $30.
If you are using a brass punch instead of a pusher, place the punch against the sight and tap it gently with a rubber mallet. Tap from the correct direction — front sight goes backward, rear sight goes forward. Do not use a steel hammer on a steel punch; the impact can chip the slide or your punch. Work slowly and check your progress every few taps.
Key Takeaways
- A sight pusher tool prevents damage to your slide and makes removal much faster than tapping with a punch.
- Front sights push toward the rear of the slide; rear sights push toward the front.
- New sights must match your Glock model — Glock 17/19/26/34 sights are not interchangeable with Glock 42/43 sights.
- Installation requires the same pusher tool or a gunsmith, and sights should be pressed on until they sit flush with the slide.
Choosing Replacement Sights That Fit Your Glock
Glock sights come in two main groups: standard dovetail sights for full-size and compact models (Glock 17, 19, 22, 23, 34, 35), and smaller dovetail sights for subcompact models (Glock 26, 27, 33). The Glock 42 and 43 use a different dovetail shape entirely and require their own sights. Check your Glock's manual or the slide itself to confirm which group yours belongs to.
Common replacement options include night sights (which glow in low light using tritium or fiber optics), fiber optic sights (bright in daylight, dim at night), and adjustable sights (which let you move the rear sight up and down or left and right to zero in your gun). Night sights cost $80 to $150 per pair. Fiber optic sights run $40 to $80. Adjustable sights range from $60 to $200 depending on the brand.
Buy sights from a gun shop, online retailer, or directly from the manufacturer. Popular brands include Trijicon, Meprolight, Ameriglo, and Glock's own factory sights. Read reviews before ordering — some sights are easier to install than others, and some hold their zero better over time.
Installing Your New Sights
Slide the new front sight into the dovetail slot on the front of the slide. It should go in by hand or with light pressure. If it is very tight, you can tap it gently with a rubber mallet, but it should not require force. Once the sight is seated, use your sight pusher to press it all the way in until it sits flush with the slide — there should be no gap between the sight and the slide.
Repeat the same process with the rear sight, sliding it into the dovetail on the back of the slide and pressing it in until it is flush. Some rear sights have a windage adjustment screw on the side; make sure this screw is not in the way before you press the sight in. If your new sights came with instructions, follow them — some brands have specific installation steps.
After installation, push on each sight with your thumb to make sure it does not move. A sight that shifts under pressure is not seated properly and will not hold zero. If a sight moves, remove it and check for dirt or damage in the dovetail slot. Clean the slot with a dry cloth and try again.
Zeroing Your New Sights at the Range
Before you carry or rely on your gun, shoot it at a target 7 to 10 yards away and see where your shots land compared to where you are aiming. This is called zeroing or sighting in. You need at least three shots in the same spot to see a pattern.
If your shots are hitting to the right of your aim point, your rear sight needs to move right. If they are hitting low, your rear sight needs to move up. Most adjustable rear sights have a small screw or lever on the side for windage (left and right) and a screw on top for elevation (up and down). Turn the windage screw one click at a time, fire three more shots, and check where they land. Repeat until your shots group where you are aiming.
Fixed sights (sights that do not adjust) cannot be moved after installation. If your shots are not where you want them, you will need to have a gunsmith adjust the sights or replace them with adjustable ones. This is why some shooters prefer adjustable sights for their first replacement.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not use a steel hammer and steel punch to remove sights. The impact can dent or crack your slide, and repairs cost $200 or more. Rent or buy a sight pusher instead — it is the cheapest insurance you can get.
Do not assume all Glock sights fit all Glock models. Sights for a Glock 17 will not fit a Glock 43. Check your model number before you order, and if you are not sure, ask the seller or call the manufacturer.
Do not skip the zeroing step. New sights may not be in the exact same position as your old ones, and your gun will not shoot where you think it will. Spend an hour at the range and save yourself from a dangerous surprise later.
Do not over-tighten adjustable sight screws. These screws are small and can strip easily. Turn them until they are snug, then stop. If a screw feels stuck, do not force it — back off and try again.
When to Take Your Glock to a Gunsmith
If you do not have a sight pusher and do not want to buy or rent one, a gunsmith can remove your old sights and install new ones in 30 minutes to an hour. The cost is usually $30 to $60 total, which is reasonable if you are only doing this once.
Take your Glock to a gunsmith if the dovetail slot is damaged, if a sight will not come out, or if you are not confident working on your gun. A gunsmith has the right tools and experience to avoid damaging your slide. If something goes wrong during a DIY installation, a gunsmith can often fix it, but the repair may cost more than having them do the job from the start.
Some gunsmiths also offer zeroing services. They will install your sights and fire your gun at their range to make sure it is zeroed before you pick it up. This costs more — usually $75 to $150 — but it means your gun is ready to carry when you leave.
Tools and Materials You Will Need
A sight pusher tool is the most important item. You can buy a universal pusher that works on most Glock models for $30 to $60. Some brands make Glock-specific pushers that are easier to use but cost a bit more.
If you do not use a pusher, you will need a brass punch (not steel), a rubber mallet, and a work surface that will not scratch your gun — a wooden bench or a gun mat works well. A flashlight helps you see into the dovetail slot to check for dirt or damage.
For zeroing, you need a target, ammunition, and access to a shooting range. Bring a small screwdriver set if your new sights have adjustable screws, and bring your gun's manual or the sight manufacturer's instructions so you know which direction to turn each screw.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace Glock sights without a sight pusher?
Yes, you can use a brass punch and rubber mallet, but it takes longer and carries a higher risk of damaging your slide. A sight pusher costs $30 to $60 and makes the job much safer and faster. If you only plan to do this once, renting a pusher for $10 to $15 is a good option.
How tight should new sights be when I install them?
New sights should be pressed in until they sit completely flush with the slide — there should be no gap. They will be very tight and should not move when you push on them with your thumb. If a sight shifts under thumb pressure, it is not seated properly and needs to be pressed in further.
Do I need to zero my gun after replacing sights?
Yes. New sights may not be in the exact same position as your old ones, so your gun's point of aim will change. Shoot at least three rounds at a target 7 to 10 yards away to see where your shots land, then adjust your sights or your aim until they group where you are aiming.
What is the difference between night sights and fiber optic sights?
Night sights glow in darkness using tritium (a radioactive material) or fiber optics powered by ambient light. Fiber optic sights are bright in daylight but dim in low light. Night sights cost more but work in any light. Choose based on when you shoot most often.
Can I install sights on my Glock 43 the same way as a Glock 17?
No. The Glock 43 and 42 use a different dovetail shape than full-size and compact models. Sights are not interchangeable between these groups. Check your model number and buy sights made for your specific Glock.