Glock 42 Problems And Their Solutions

As a gun enthusiast and owner of a Glock 42, I have encountered various issues with this firearm that have caused frustration and concern. However, through research and experience, I have discovered effective solutions for these problems.

In this article, I will share my knowledge on the common issues faced by Glock 42 owners and provide helpful tips to overcome them.

Whether you are a new owner or have been using the Glock 42 for years, this comprehensive guide will address your concerns and assist you in maximizing the performance of your firearm. So, let’s dive into the world of Glock 42 problems and their solutions.

Some of the most common problems with Glock 42 guns are Failure to Fire, Failure To Feed, Magazine Issues, Cycling Problems, Slide Not Locking Back, Limp Wristing, Extractor Problem and Jamming Problem. 

Glock 42 Problems

Common Glock 42 Problems And Their Solutions

1. Failure to Fire

One of the most common problems that Glock 42 owners face is failure to fire. As a shooter, nothing can frustrate you more than pulling the trigger and having your gun not go off. There could be several reasons for this issue, but most of them are easy to fix.

Firstly, make sure that your ammo is suitable for your Glock 42. Sometimes, using the wrong ammunition can cause this problem and ruin your shooting experience.

Secondly, pay attention to the chamber and make sure it is clean and free from any debris or residue that could prevent proper firing. Additionally, check the cartridge for any defects or damage that could affect its performance.

Another common reason for failure to fire in Glock 42 is a worn-out or damaged firing pin spring. This small piece is responsible for igniting the gunpowder in the cartridge, so if it’s not functioning properly, your gun won’t fire.

If you have been using your Glock 42 frequently, then it’s recommended to replace this spring every few thousand rounds.

2. Failure To Feed 

One of the most common problems with the Glock 42 is its tendency to fail to feed after firing nearly 100 rounds.

This can be frustrating, especially if you’re in the middle of a shooting session and your pistol suddenly stops working. But before you get too worked up, let me assure you that this issue can easily be resolved.

Firstly, check for any obstructions in the magazine. If you notice any, remove them immediately and try feeding your pistol again.

If this doesn’t work, it’s possible that the connector or trigger housing may be causing the issue. You can fix this by simply cleaning these parts thoroughly and reassembling them.

If the problem still persists, it could be due to an issue with the bullet itself. Inspect the bullet for any deformities or abnormalities, and replace it if necessary.

If none of these solutions work, it might be worth the effort to have a gunsmith take a look at your pistol. They may be able to identify and fix any underlying issues that you may not have noticed.

3. Magazine Issues

One of the main causes of malfunctioning magazines in a Glock 42 is dirt and debris build-up. This can result in feeding problems and cause the firearm to malfunction.

To avoid this, make sure to regularly clean and lubricate your Glocks magazine and reload safely. It is also important to use high-quality ammunition as low-quality rounds can contribute to magazine issues.

Another issue that you might encounter is a worn-out or damaged magazine spring. This component of your firearm plays a crucial role in the feeding process and if it’s not functioning properly, it can cause feeding problems.

To ensure that your magazine spring is in good condition, inspect it regularly for any signs of wear or damage. If needed, replace the spring with a new one to prevent any future issues.

In addition to these common problems, there might be other specific issues that you might encounter with your Glock 42 magazine, particularly when you’ve fired over 200 rounds.

It is important to pay attention to detail and troubleshoot carefully to pinpoint the root cause of the problem.

Seeking help from a professional gunsmith can also be a helpful process in solving any issues with your firearm’s magazine

4. Extractor Problem

One common problem with the Glock 42 is its extractor. This small but crucial component is designed to extract spent cases from the chamber and quickly load new rounds into the gun.

However, some users have reported issues with their extractors, ranging from poor extraction to complete failure.

If you’re experiencing problems with your Glock 42’s extractor, there are a few things you can try to resolve the issue.

First, make sure your extractor is properly installed in the correct position. Next, check for any buildup or debris that may be obstructing its movement.

You can also try replacing the extractor with a different brand or model to see if that helps.

5. Cycling Problems

One common issue is failure to feed or eject properly. This could be due to using max loads that are too heavy for the pistol, causing it to jam.

Another factor could be improper crimping of your ammunition, leading to cycling problems, especially when you reload after firing 200 rounds.

If you’re using a new type of ammo, it’s always a good idea to test it out before relying on it for self-defense purposes.

To address these issues, make sure you are using the recommended loads for your Glock 42 and that they are properly crimped.

Also, try cleaning and lubricating your gun regularly, as build-up of dirt and debris can affect cycling. Additionally, consider using a replacement recoil spring to ensure smooth cycling.

Another common problem is failure to rack the slide after firing. This could be caused by an improper grip or weak hand strength.

To effectively rack the slide, make sure you are using proper technique and practice regularly to build hand strength. You can also try using a different type of grip that may work better for you

6. Slide Not Locking Back

The most common reason for this problem is the slide stop not functioning properly. This could be due to a dirty, damaged, or worn out slide stop lever.

If this is the case, you can try cleaning it thoroughly and see if it solves the issue. If not, you may need to replace the part with a new one.

Another possible reason could be your handling of the gun. Are you gripping it too high? In some cases, This can cause your thumb to accidentally press down on the slide stop, tightly holding it and preventing it from locking back.

Make sure you are holding the gun properly and not interfering with the slide stop during firing. You can fix this issue by replacing the slide lock if nothing works.

7. Limp Wristing 

Limp wristing can be caused by a variety of factors, including fatigue, lack of proper technique, or even just holding the gun too loosely and inadvertently preventing it from firing two rounds properly.

It can also occasionally be a systematic issue with your particular gun. Whatever the reason may be, it can be frustrating and potentially dangerous if not addressed.

Luckily, there are some top solutions to help you overcome this problem. The first step is to focus on your grip and make sure you are holding the gun firmly.

Use your entire hand to wrap securely around the grip, with your dominant hand applying pressure towards the front of the gun. You may also want to try adjusting your stance and body position to better support the weight of the gun.

Additionally, practicing proper technique can go a long way in preventing limp wristing.

Make sure you are keeping your wrists firm and not allowing them to bend or flex while shooting.

This may take some time and effort to master, but with practice, you will be able to develop a steady and consistent grip.

8. Jamming Problem

One of the main reasons for jamming in the Glock 42 can arise from using low-quality ammunition.

To avoid this issue, make sure to use high-quality, factory-made ammunition. Another solution is to modify your Glock 42 by installing an aftermarket barrel or slide. This can help improve the overall performance of your firearm and reduce jamming.

Another common issue with the Glock 42 is failure to extract or eject spent casings. This can be caused by a weak extractor spring or dirty/rough chamber walls.

You can address this problem by regularly cleaning your firearm and replacing the extractor spring if needed. Additionally, polishing the chamber walls can also help improve the extraction process.

Keep in mind that these problems may occur with any Glock model, but they are not widespread and can be easily resolved. With proper maintenance and a few modifications, your Glock 42 should function flawlessly.

Remember to always prioritize safety and consult a professional gunsmith if you encounter any major issues with your firearm’s mechanism

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can I improve the reliability of my Glock 42?

There are several ways to tackle reliability issues. First, ensure your Glock 42 is clean and well-maintained. Replace the magazine follower if it’s worn, and inspect the ejection port for any obstructions.

What should I do if my Glock 42 is having ejection problems?

If your Glock 42 is experiencing ejection issues, first ensure that you are using the correct ammunition for your firearm. You may also want to swap to a heavier or lighter round, as Glock 42s can have a bit of a quirk with certain types of 380 ammunition.

How can I address last round feed problems with my Glock 42?

If you are experiencing last round feed problems with your Glock 42, consider trying different types of ammunition. Some shooters have found that using 100gr or Buffalo Bore ammunition can improve the feeding of the last round.

What should I do if my Glock 42 experiences double feeds?

Double feeds can be a frustrating issue. If your Glock 42 is experiencing double feeds, you might want to try proactively discarding any unfired rounds before they wound up, or consider using a more reputable brand of ammunition.

Are there solutions to the problems associated with the Glock 42 ejector?

If your Glock 42 is having problems with the ejector causing the slide to not fully cycle, you might want to consider swapping out the ejector for an improved version, or seeking a hands-on improvement from a gunsmith.

 Conclusion

The Glock 42 is a sleek and compact semi-automatic pistol, expertly crafted for concealed carry purposes, ensuring reliability in critical situations. But, it too have some flaws as we have discussed above and provided practical solutions.

Additionally, it is important to familiarize yourself with the gun’s manual and seek professional help from a certified Glock armorer if you encounter any major issues.

Remember, taking care of your firearm not only ensures its longevity but also guarantees your safety when using it.

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