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This guide walks through the complete disassembly and reassembly of a Glock 43. Every step is covered—from field strip to internal teardown and frame rebuild—so you can maintain, inspect, or upgrade your carry gun with confidence.
TL;DR – How To Disassemble And Reassemble A Glock 43
Learn how to take apart your Glock 43 safely
Remove and clean every part of the slide and frame
Put everything back the right way
Avoid common mistakes
This compact 9mm is built to run hard and carry easy — but when it’s time to break it down, a field strip won’t cut it. This guide walks through the full disassembly and reassembly of the Glock 43 slide, frame, and all internal components. Every pin, spring, and part is covered. Let’s dig into how to disassemble and reassemble a Glock 43!
The Glock 43 isn’t complicated — but knowing how every part fits together matters. This guide was written by Jason Schaller, a 10 year FFL holder and gunsmith as well as a chief instructor at Freedom Crew University.
We’re not calling this a cleaning guide. This is about understanding the platform, fixing issues, and learning how every piece fits together. Whether it’s for inspection, replacement, or upgrades, this is your no-fluff, no-guesswork teardown walkthrough.
Rack the slide and lock it to the rear using the slide stop lever.
Visually and physically inspect the chamber to confirm it is clear.
Release the slide forward and press the trigger in a safe direction to release striker tension.
Grasp the slide and pull it slightly to the rear (about 1/8″). While holding it there, pull down both sides of the takedown tabs.
Let the slide move forward off the frame. Set the frame aside.
Step 2: How To Remove The Glock 43 Recoil Spring
Place your thumb against the rear of the recoil spring assembly.
Slightly compress the spring and lift it upward and rearward to remove it from its seat.
Set it aside.
Step 3: How To Remove The Glock 43 Barrel
Lift the barrel upward from the chamber area.
Slide it out toward the rear of the slide.
Set the barrel aside for inspection or cleaning.
What to Inspect During The Glock 43 Field Strip Process
Barrel:
Chamber & Feed Ramp: Look for carbon build-up, pitting, or deformation.
Crown: Should be clean, undamaged, and concentric. Chips or nicks here can affect accuracy.
Lugs: Check for cracks, rounding, or peening.
Recoil Spring Assembly:
Check for binding, rust, or loose guide rod ends.
The spring should be firm and evenly coiled — no kinks or deformation.
Slide:
Look at the rails, striker channel, and breech face for fouling, dents, or wear.
Ensure the firing pin safety moves freely and resets under tension.
Frame:
Inspect the rails, locking block, and trigger mechanism for wear, fouling, or missing parts.
Look for any cracks, especially around the front locking block and rear rails.
⚠️ Safety Tips During Field Strip
Always verify the firearm is unloaded – Visually and physically inspect the chamber before proceeding
Never skip striker tension release – The trigger must be pressed to allow slide removal
Control spring tension when removing the recoil spring – The assembly can slip or bounce if released carelessly
Set the slide and frame on soft, stable surfaces – Prevents damage to contact points or sights
Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction at all times – Even during disassembly, treat every handling step with car
How to Disassemble the Glock 43 Slide
Step 1: How To Remove The Glock 43 Slide Plate ⚠️ Warning: Wear eye protection. The striker assembly and extractor depressor plunger are under spring tension.
With the slide upside down and muzzle facing away, insert a Glock tool or punch into the space behind the striker sleeve.
Inspect for: Smooth movement; make sure it’s not cracked or sticking
Gently press forward on the plastic spacer sleeve to relieve tension on the slide cover plate.
While maintaining pressure, use your thumb to carefully slide the cover plate downward and off.
Control the striker and extractor depressor plunger to prevent them from launching.
Remove the cover plate and set it aside.
Inspect for: Debris or grit on the cover plate and channel.
Step 2: How To Remove The Glock 43 Striker
With the cover plate removed, grip the striker assembly and slide it straight out the rear of the slide.
Inspect for: Rust, pitting, carbon on the tip, and bent spring or cracked cups.
Inspect for: Dirt or carbon in the spring area, cracks on the cups, rust or deformation on the striker tip.
Keep it in one piece unless further disassembly is needed.
Step 3: How To Remove The Glock 43 Extractor Depressor Plunger (EDP) Assembly
With the slide still inverted, locate the lower channel containing the extractor depressor plunger, spring, and spring-loaded bearing.
Tilt the slide slightly or tap gently to remove the EDP assembly.
Use caution — the spring may be under tension and can launch unexpectedly.
Set the entire EDP assembly aside as one unit.
Inspect for: Spring compression, rust, and secure seating.
Step 4: How To Remove The Glock 43 Firing Pin Safety and Extractor
Using a punch or tool, press the firing pin safety inward to release tension on the extractor.
While holding the safety down, gently tilt or tap the slide to allow the extractor to fall free from the slide.
Inspect for: Sharp edges, cracks, or fouling on the claw.
Release the firing pin safety. If needed, remove the safety and its spring by tilting the slide and guiding them out of the housing.
Inspect for: Surface rust, clean return action, and no scoring on the plunger.
Set both components aside for inspection or replacement.
At this point, the slide is fully stripped to its base housing. This level of disassembly allows:
Inspection of wear on critical parts (striker lugs, extractor claw)
Cleaning of the striker channel and safety plunger
Replacement of worn springs or components
Optional Step 5: How To Remove The Glock 43 Sights Removing the sights is not part of standard disassembly but may be necessary for upgrades or refinishing.
Rear Sight Removal:
Secure the slide in a sight pusher tool designed for Glock slides.
Turn the tool’s adjustment knob to push the rear sight laterally out of its dovetail.
If using a non-marring punch and hammer, tap carefully from one side, using a sight block to avoid damaging the slide.
Front Sight Removal:
Turn the slide upside down to access the underside of the front sight post.
Use a 3/16″ hex nut driver or Glock front sight tool to remove the screw holding the sight.
Hold the front sight from above to prevent it from falling once the screw is released.
Always inspect sight cuts for burrs or debris before reinstalling or replacing sights.
How to Disassemble the Glock 43 Striker Assembly
Place the striker assembly backwards into the slide. The slide will act as a jig to disassemble the striker.
Hold the striker assembly with the spring pointing away from you.
Inspect for: Chipped or uneven cups, weak spring tension.
Compress the spring slightly and slide off the spring cups (two half-moon plastic retainers).
Carefully release the spring tension and slide off the spring and spacer sleeve.
Inspect the striker for wear or chipping, especially at the sear engagement surfaces.
Inspect for: Dirt, carbon or rust on the striker or spring, cracks on the cups, rust or deformation on the striker tip.
Clean the striker channel and components if reusing.
Inspection points:
Sear Engagement Surfaces: Look for rounding, chips, or burrs that could cause light primer strikes or improper reset.
Striker Tip: Should be clean and sharply defined. Pitting or peening here affects ignition.
Spring Cups: Check for cracks, deformation, or uneven wear.
Striker Spring: Ensure there are no kinks, corrosion, or uneven compression.
Spacer Sleeve: Look for cracks, swelling, or distortion.
Set parts aside for reassembly.
How To Disassemble The Glock 43 Extractor Depressor Plunger Disassembly
Hold the extractor depressor plunger assembly by the metal plunger body.
Twist the spring slightly and remove the spring-loaded bearing from the back end.
Plunger Body: Should be free of dents, burrs, or corrosion.
Spring: Must retain tension. Replace if rusted, or soft.
Spring-Loaded Bearing: Inspect for deformation.
Clean all components and lay them out in order for reassembly.
What Tools To Use For The Glock 43 Slide Disassembly
Glock Armorer’s Tool or 3/32″ punch – Used to depress the striker sleeve and firing pin safety
Thumb or bench pressure – Required to slide the cover plate off under spring tension
Non-marring punch or sight tool – For rear sight removal, if applicable
3/16″ hex driver or Glock front sight tool – Needed for front sight removal
Parts tray or magnetic mat – Keeps springs, striker, and EDP parts organized
⚠️ Safety Tips During The Glock 43 Slide Disassembly
Wear eye protection – The striker and EDP assemblies are spring-loaded and can eject forcefully
Keep your thumb over the backplate – Control parts as the cover plate slides off
Never pry with sharp tools – Use proper punches and pressure points to avoid damaging internal channels
Inspect parts as you go – Don’t wait until reassembly to catch a cracked cup or weakened spring
Support the slide properly – When removing sights or internal components, use a bench block or padded surface
How to Assemble the Glock 43 Striker Assembly
With all components cleaned and inspected, it’s time to reassemble the slide. These steps follow Glock’s official armorer guidelines and ensure correct timing, spring tension, and part alignment.
Step 1: How To Reassemble The Glock 43 Striker Assembly
Place the striker upside down into the slide’s striker channel cut
Rotate the striker lug slightly to one side. This holds the assembly in place while you work.
Slide the spacer sleeve onto the striker shaft
The open end of the sleeve should face the spring.
Install the striker spring
Slide it over the spacer sleeve.
Compress the spring using your fingers
Pull the spring downward with your thumb and forefinger to expose the striker shaft’s notch.
Install the spring cups
Drop both half-moon cups into the exposed notch. Make sure they seat evenly.
Slowly release the spring so it centers on the cups and locks them in place.
Step 2: How To Assemble The Glock 43 Firing Pin Safety
Insert the spring into the hole on the bottom of the Firing Pin Safety
Give it a slight twist clockwise to set the spring in the hole
Step 3: How To Install The Glock 43 Firing Pin Safety and Extractor
Insert the firing pin safety into its bore in the slide
Make sure the spring is seated and facing downward.
It should rise and lock the extractor in position.
🧠 Check Fit: The extractor should pivot slightly but not wiggle loose. The firing pin safety should reset when pressed and released.
Step 4: How To Install The Glock 43 Extractor Depressor Plunger (EDP) Assembly
Reassemble the EDP if you broke it down
Slide the spring over the nub on the metal plunger until it snaps into place
Install the spring-loaded bearing onto the rear end.
Insert the entire EDP into the lower slide channel
The bearing should face rearward and the metal tip rest on the back of the extractor.
Step 5: How To Install The Glock 43 Striker Assembly
Slide the completed striker assembly into the upper channel of the slide
It should move smoothly and seat fully.
Apply light forward pressure
This ensures it stays in place while you install the backplate.
Step 6: How To Install The Glock 43 Slide Cover Plate
Use a punch to press forward on both the striker and EDP assemblies
This relieves tension from the cover plate channel.
Slide the cover plate upward into place from the bottom of the slide
Keep pressure on the internal assemblies until the plate holds them in place.
Press the plate until it clicks into place
It should be flush with the back of the slide.
🔧 Final Check: Shake the slide gently. There should be no rattling. The firing pin safety should click when pressed. The extractor should be firm.
🔧 What Tools You Need For A Glock 43 Slide Reassembly
Glock Armorer’s Tool or 3/32″ punch – Used to press in the firing pin safety and EDP bearing during cover plate installation – Also handy for aligning spring cups if needed
Bench block (non-marring) – Keeps the slide stable while working on internal parts
Small parts tray or magnetic mat – Prevents losing spring cups or tiny bearings during striker reassembly
Real Avid Glock Tool Kit (optional) – Includes all-in-one solutions and non-marring tools specific to Glock platforms
⚠️ Safety Tips During Slide Reassembly
Wear eye protection – Both the striker spring and EDP are under tension. The spring-loaded bearing can launch with serious force if released unexpectedly.
Control spring tension with your hands — not tools – Glock recommends using finger pressure to compress the striker spring and EDP components. Avoid using pliers or metal tools that can damage plastic parts.
Cover the back of the slide during striker/EDP install – Use your thumb or palm to block parts in case they slip while installing the cover plate.
Confirm all parts are flush and reset – After reassembly, press the firing pin safety and extractor — both should move and reset cleanly.
No “extra” parts? You’re good. – If you have leftover parts, stop. Don’t guess. Double-check assembly order before installing the slide back on the frame.
How to Disassemble the Glock 43 Frame
Disassembling the Glock 43 frame gives full access to the trigger assembly, locking block, and internal components. This process uses simple tools, but attention to part alignment and spring tension is key.
Use a 3/32″ punch to push the trigger pin out (left to right)
Important: Rock the slide stop lever back and forth while applying pressure. It locks into grooves on the pin and must be moved to release tension.
Step 2: How To Remove The Glock 43 Locking Block
Insert your punch under the rear of the locking block
Use it as a lever to gently lift the block out.
⚠️ Do not pry against the trigger bar. Apply pressure under the block only.
Lift the block straight up and out
Set it aside for inspection.
🔍 Inspect the block for cracks, rounding at the slide rail interface, or deformation. Check that the recoil spring shelf is intact.
Step 3: How To Remove The Glock 43 Slide Stop
Remove the slide stop by lifting straight up.
Inspect for: Bent or worn spring tab; clean contact points.
Step 4: How To Remove The Glock 43 Trigger Housing and Trigger Assembly
Grasp the ejector and lift upward on the rear of the trigger housing
The entire assembly should slide out as one unit: trigger, trigger bar, connector, and housing.
Carefully remove the assembly from the frame
Pay attention to how the trigger bar rides in the frame rails.
🔍 Inspect the connector spring tension, trigger bar for wear, or rust
Step 5: How To Remove The Glock 43 Slide Lock
Push Down on one Side of the Slide Lock
Push The Slide Lock towards the side that is down
Keep a finger over the slide lock to capture the spring
Continue pushing the Slide Lock until it stops
Now push down on the slide lock and continue pushing it out
How to Disassemble the Glock 43 Trigger – Breaking Down the housing
Hold the housing in your left hand and trigger shoe in your right.
Twist the trigger clockwise in the housing to release the bearing from the front of the Cruciform
Now rotate counterclockwise until it clears the housing.
With a punch, push the connector out of the housing from left.
Using a punch push push the trigger spring bearing doan and slide it far enough to stick out the front
Now flip the rod up and lift the assembly out the rear of the housing.
Now Hold the bearing and twist the assembly so that the rod will remove through the slot of the bearing
Remove the bearing
Remove the spring from the Rod
🔧 Tools Used in Frame Disassembly
Glock Armorer’s Tool or 3/32″ punch – For pushing out the trigger pin, locking block pin, and connector
Bench block (non-marring) – Supports the frame and prevents damage while driving out pins
Needle-nose pliers (optional) – Helpful for lifting the trigger housing or connector if tight
Parts tray or magnetic mat – Keeps track of the slide stop lever, pins, and connector
Small flashlight – Useful for inspecting inside the frame and trigger housing
⚠️ Safety Tips During Frame Disassembly
Work on a stable, flat surface – Prevents the frame from slipping when applying punch pressure
Rock the slide stop lever when removing the trigger pin – Do not force it — rocking is required to release pin tension
Do not pry on the trigger bar or ejector – Always lift components from designated edges, never from flexing points
Check for spring tension before removing internal components – Some connectors or trigger bars may release with light snap force
Organize parts in removal order – Makes reassembly easier and prevents reversed orientations
How to Assemble the Glock 43 Frame
Now that all internal parts are cleaned, inspected, and laid out, it’s time to rebuild the frame. Reassembly is straightforward, but part orientation and seating order are critical to reliable function.
Step 1: How To Assemble The Glock 43 Trigger (if disassembled)
Install the spring on the slotted rod (this spring is shorter than the slide lock spring)
Compress the spring and slide the bearing on over the slotted rod
Twist the bearing so that it catches on the slotted Rod
Make sure the the angle of the rod end matches the “hooked end” of the bearing (the flat side of the rod should face the short end of the bearing).
Insert the rounded end of the rod into the front of the housing (hooked end of the bearing should be in the 12 o’clock position.
Compress the spring so the rod shows through the front
Rotate the rod down
Release pressure, the rod should be locked into place.
Install the Connector into the right side of the housing until the short end bottoms out.
Hook the Cruciform of the trigger bar into the bearing.
Rotate the arm of the Cruciform into the slot behind the connector
Rotate the trigger upwards so the rear of the opposite arm is under the ledge on the connector.
Step 2: How To Install The Glock 43 Trigger Mechanism Housing and Trigger Group
Insert the entire trigger assembly into the frame
Start with the trigger shoe and install it into the trigger slot
Lower the rear of the trigger housing into the rear of the frame
Push down gently until the housing locks flush with the frame.
You will have to push in on the trigger bar to clear the frame in the rear.
Install plastic pin into the frame to hold the housing in place.
🧠 Check Fit: The trigger bar should rest freely along the frame rails with no binding.
Step 3: How To Install The Glock 43 Slide Lock
Insert the spring into the hole in just after the dust cover (this spring is longer than the trigger spring)
Insert the slide lock, with the groove facing the rear, into the frame at a 45 degree angle tipping upwards
Continue pushing the slide lock into the frame until the spring snaps into place.
Step 4: How To Install The Glock 43 Locking Block
Set the locking block into place just above the trigger guard cutout
Press it downward until it seats fully in the frame
You may need to push lightly with your thumb or punch handle.
🔍 Verify: The locking block should sit flush — no rocking or gaps.
Step 5: How To Install The Glock 43 Slide Stop Lever And Trigger Pin
Place the slide stop lever into its cutout on the left side of the frame
The spring should rest over the locking block, angled downward.
Insert the trigger pin (Right to Left)
Push the pin until it is centered
You should feel it lock into place with positive retention.
🧠 Final Fit Check:
Trigger bar should move freely
Slide stop lever should spring back when pressed
All pins flush with the frame
🔧 Tools Used in Frame Reassembly
Glock Armorer’s Tool or 3/32″ punch – Used to align and seat the locking block pin and trigger pin – Helps guide parts without damaging polymer
Non-marring bench block – Supports the frame during pin installation
Needle-nose pliers (optional) – Useful for guiding the slide stop lever or seating tight-fitting connectors
Light lubricant (Glock-approved or Aegis) – A tiny amount on pin channels can help during reassembly
Flashlight or inspection lamp – Helps verify trigger bar fit and connector alignment
⚠️ Safety Tips During Frame Reassembly
Do not force pins into place – Misaligned components or jammed slide stop springs can resist pin entry — always double-check orientation
Keep fingers clear of the trigger bar’s flex points – Sudden spring tension can snap or bend soft contact areas
Install the trigger pin last – Ensure the slide stop lever is properly positioned and rocked during install — this is critical for function
Verify flush seating – All pins should be flush with the frame. High or sunken pins may cause function issues
Final movement test matters – After reassembly, squeeze the trigger and reset bar (with slide off) to verify smooth motion and full engagement
Glock 43 Final Reassembly – Installing the Slide and Performing Function Checks
With the slide and frame fully reassembled, it’s time to put everything back together and ensure it works as intended. These last steps confirm mechanical fit, part engagement, and trigger function.
Step 1: How To Install the Glock 43 Barrel and Recoil Spring into the Slide
Insert the barrel into the slide from the rear
It should drop in smoothly and sit flush in the front.
Seat the recoil spring assembly
Place the flat end against the barrel lug and compress slightly.
Lock the spring’s front into its notch in the slide.
Step 2: How To Install The Glock 43 Slide onto the Frame
Align the slide rails with the frame rails
Start from the front and slowly pull rearward.
Rack the slide fully to the rear and release
The slide should move freely and lock into battery.
Step 3: How To Perform Glock 43 Function Checks
✅ Trigger Reset and Striker Release:
Rack the slide.
Pull the trigger — you should hear and feel the striker release.
Hold the trigger to the rear, rack the slide again.
Slowly release the trigger — listen for a cleanclick (reset).
Pull again — you should get another striker release.
Slide stop lever should engage and release reliably
🔒 Important: No live ammo should be present during these checks. Do not insert a loaded magazine until all function tests are complete and verified.
FAQ – Glock 43 Disassembly and Reassembly
How do I fully disassemble a Glock 43?
To fully disassemble a Glock 43, field strip the slide and remove the barrel and recoil spring. Then take apart the slide (striker, extractor, safety, sights) and the frame (trigger pin, slide stop lever, locking block, trigger housing, and connector). Follow armorer-level steps to ensure proper orientation and safe removal of spring-loaded parts.
Do I need special tools to take apart a Glock 43?
You only need a few basic tools: a 3/32″ punch (or Glock tool), a non-marring bench block, and possibly a sight pusher or front sight tool. A magnetic tray and flashlight help with organization and inspection, but no advanced tools are required.
What should I look for when inspecting Glock 43 internals?
Check the striker for chipping or rounded edges. Look for wear on the extractor, damage to the slide rails, binding in the trigger bar, and cracks in the locking block. Springs should be tight and evenly coiled — not rusted, collapsed, or kinked.
What’s the difference between a field strip and full disassembly?
A field strip removes the slide, barrel, and recoil spring only. Full disassembly breaks down every internal component in the slide and frame, allowing you to inspect, clean, or replace each part.
How often should I fully disassemble my Glock 43?
Most shooters never need a full teardown unless diagnosing issues, upgrading parts, or cleaning after extreme use. Field strip and clean regularly, but only go full-depth if performance drops or parts need inspection or replacement.
Wrap-Up – Why A Glock 43 Full Disassembly Matters
This isn’t just about cleaning. It’s about control.
Knowing how to fully disassemble and reassemble a Glock 43 means more than maintenance — it means confidence. Whether you’re upgrading internals, diagnosing malfunctions, or just making sure your carry gun runs right, this guide gives you a full breakdown with zero guesswork.
Every part has a job. Now you know how to inspect it, fix it, and put it back together the right way.
🔗 Need help diagnosing a specific issue? Check the Glock Troubleshooting Guide for the most common problems — and how to fix them fast.
🛠 OEM Glock 43 Replacement Intervals
Glock doesn’t leave parts replacement to guesswork. Here’s what the Armorer’s Manual recommends — and what most experienced shooters follow in the real world.
These are the service intervals and inspection cues to keep your Glock 43 running right:
Recoil Spring Assembly (RSA): Replace every 5,000 rounds — or earlier if the slide feels sluggish or ejection starts to get weird. OEM Part #: 33601
Striker Spring: Swap out every 10,000 rounds or if the trigger starts feeling lighter or gritty.
Trigger Return Spring: Replace every 10,000 rounds, especially if you start missing resets or the trigger won’t return cleanly.
Slide Cover Plate: Replace immediately if it feels loose, warped, or shows any cracking — it holds back critical internal parts under spring tension.
Extractor: Replace if the hook is chipped or rounded off — especially if you’ve had stovepipes or weak ejection.
Connector: If your trigger is dragging, failing to break consistently, or showing weak reset — clean it first. If that doesn’t fix it, replace the connector.
Trigger Housing & Locking Block: These rarely need replacing, but if you see hairline cracks, wobble, or wear at pin holes — especially after 10K+ rounds — it’s time to pull and inspect.
📌 Tip: Inspect everything during full teardown. Round counts matter, but part condition always tells the real story.
This page may contain affiliate links. If you click and buy, I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you. I only recommend tools I trust and use myself.
Is your Glock 43 hiding rust? Learn how to spot it and deep clean your firearm the right way.
Original Content by The Rogue Banshee / My Rogue Solutions LLC. Credit: Jason Schaller Email: [email protected]
About the Author: Jason Schaller is a former FFL holder and founder of Eagle Eye Shooters Supply in Helena, MT, where he provided professional gunsmithing services and guided customers on all aspects of firearms ownership. Today, he teaches DIY gunsmithing at The Rogue Banshee and serves as a Chief Instructor at Freedom Crew University. With over a decade of hands-on professional experience with firearms and nearly 30 years in IT, Jason also holds top cybersecurity certifications including CISSP, CISA, and CRISC. When he’s not geeking out, he’s helping others build self-reliance, critical thinking, and firearms proficiency through real-world content.
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