Inspection and Repair of the M9 Pistol

MARINE CORPS INSTITUTE

INSPECTION AND REPAIR OFTHE M9 PISTOL

MARINE BARRACKSWASHINGTON, DC

http://www.mci.usmc.mil/procedures/contact.asp

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Table of Contents

Page

Contents........................................................................................................................ iNavigation Instructions ................................................................................................. iii

Chapter 1 Disassembly and Assembly of the M9 Pistol ............................. 1-1

Operator Controls and Weapon SafetyOperator Controls....................................................................... 1-1Clearing Procedures ................................................................... 1-4Additional Safety Features ......................................................... 1-5

Operator Disassembly and AssemblyOperator Disassembly ............................................................... 1-6Operator Assembly..................................................................... 1-9Disassembling and Assembling the Magazine ............................ 1-11Disassembling the Barrel and Slide Assembly ............................ 1-13Removing the Locking Block, Plunger, and Pin.......................... 1-14Removing the Extractor from the Slide....................................... 1-15Removing the Firing Pin Block from the Slide .......................... 1-16Removing the Thumb Safety from the Slide ............................... 1-18Removing the Firing Pin from the Slide...................................... 1-20Removing the Rear Sight from the Slide..................................... 1-21

Assembling the Barrel and SlideInstalling the Locking Block, Plunger, and Pin ........................... 1-22Installing the Rear Sight onto the Slide....................................... 1-23Installing the Firing Pin and Extractor in the Slide...................... 1-24Installing the Thumb Safety into the Slide .................................. 1-26Installing the Firing Pin Block in the Slide ................................. 1-28

Disassembling the ReceiverRemoving the Grips ................................................................... 1-29Removing and Disassembling the Magazine Catch Assembly..... 1-31Removing the Disassembly Latch Lever..................................... 1-32Removing the Trigger Bar .......................................................... 1-33Removing the Slide Stop ............................................................ 1-34Removing the Trigger ................................................................ 1-35Removing the Lanyard Loop and Mainspring............................. 1-36Removing the Hammer............................................................... 1-37Removing the Sear ..................................................................... 1-38Removing the Hammer Release Lever, Firing Pin

Continued on next page

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Table of Contents, Continued

Block Lever, and Ejector ............................................................ 1-39Removing the Grip Screw Bushings ........................................... 1-40

Assembling the ReceiverInstalling the Grip Screw Bushings............................................. 1-41Installing the Ejector, Hammer Release Lever, and FiringPin Block Lever ......................................................................... 1-43Installing the Sear and Spring ..................................................... 1-45Installing the Hammer ................................................................ 1-46Installing the Mainspring and Lanyard Loop .............................. 1-48Installing the Trigger and Trigger Bar ........................................ 1-50Installing the Slide Stop ............................................................. 1-52Assembling and Installing the Magazine Catch........................... 1-53Installing the Disassembly Latch Lever and Grips ...................... 1-54

Chapter 2 Troubleshooting, Inspecting, and Repairing the M9 Pistol

Functioning Cycle ..................................................................... 2-1Feeding ...................................................................................... 2-2Chambering................................................................................ 2-4Locking...................................................................................... 2-5Firing ......................................................................................... 2-6Unlocking .................................................................................. 2-9Extraction and Ejection .............................................................. 2-10Cocking...................................................................................... 2-11

Diagnosing the Causes of MalfunctionsFailure to Feed ........................................................................... 2-13Failure to Chamber or Lock........................................................ 2-15Failure to Fire............................................................................. 2-16Failure to Unlock, Extract, and Eject .......................................... 2-18Failure to Cock........................................................................... 2-19

Inspecting the M9 PistolTypes of Inspections................................................................... 2-20Steps for Conducting an Inspection ............................................ 2-23Conducting an M9 Pistol Inspection ........................................... 2-25

Repairing the M9 PistolOperator Responsibilities ........................................................... 2-29Unit Responsibilities .................................................................. 2-31Intermediate Maintenance Activity (IMA) Responsibilities ........ 2-32Graphics..................................................................................... 2-33

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NAVIGATION INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE M9 PISTOL PDF

Text Link Blue highlighted text indicates link to graphics. Simply click on area ofhighlighted text to go to a graphic corresponding to the text displayed.

Graphic Link Clicking a graphic will return you to the area of text corresponding to thegraphic displayed. In some cases, a graphic may be linked by two areas oftext. If so, the graphic will be linked twice (double linked). The left side willbe linked to the first area of text and the right side will be linked to a later orsecondary area of text. For example, the graphic labeled 1-4 is linked to texton pages 1-2 and 1-4. It pertains to the thumb safety text located on bothpages. The left side of graphic 1-4 will be linked to text on page 1-2; the rightside of the graphic will be linked to text on page 1-4.

Double Links This file contains the following double links.

Graphic PrimaryPage

SecondaryPage

1-4 1-2 1-41-8 1-3 1-4

1-18 1-8 1-91-25 1-11 1-121-26 1-11 1-121-30b 1-14 1-222-9 2-6 2-7

2-10 2-6 2-7

MCI Job Aid Inspection and

Repair of the M9 Pistol 1-1 Chapter 1

CHAPTER 1

DISASSEMBLY AND ASSEMBLY OF THE M9 PISTOL

SECTION 1. OPERATOR CONTROLS AND WEAPON SAFETY

Operator Controls

Key FeaturesClick here forfigure 1-1.

Before you handle any piece of equipment, you should know what you aredoing. This holds especially true of a firearm!

The key features of the M9 pistol are the

• Magazine catch• Thumb safety• Slide stop

MagazineCatch Clickhere for figure1-2.

The following table describes the location, function, and operation of themagazine catch.

Location Function OperationOn either side of thepistol, in the pistol gripat the juncture of thegrip and the triggerguard.

Allows the magazine tofall or be withdrawnfrom the weapon.

Can be pressed witheither the thumb ormiddle finger; eitherway, the magazineshould drop from thegrip.

If friction binds it, youmay have to grasp thebottom of the magazinewell.

Whenever possible,catch the magazinebefore it hits theground.




Operator Controls, Continued

Thumb SafetyClick here forFigure 1-3.

The following table describes the location, function, and operation of thethumb safety.

Location Function OperationAt the rear of the slidejust forward of thehammer, protrudingfrom both sides of theslide so it can beengaged with eitherthumb.

When the wings• Slant downward and

cover the warning(red) dot on the slide,the safety is ON(engaged). Click herefor figure 1-4.

• Are horizontalexposing the red dot,the safety is OFF(disengaged). Clickhere for figure 1-5.

When the safety is ON,it• Rotates the striker

out of firing pincontact and into theslide so a fallinghammer cannot strikethe firing pin.

• Uncocks the hammerwhen the hammer hasbeen cocked to therear and prevents thehammer from beingrecocked.

• Disconnects thehammer from thetrigger.

Push upward with thethumb of your shootinghand on either of thewings to turn the safetyOFF and expose the reddot.




Operator Controls, Continued

Slide StopClick here forFigure 1-6.

The following table describes the location, function, and operation of the slidestop.

Location Function OperationThe most rearward leveron the left side of thepistol underneath theslide.

• Automaticallyholds the slide tothe rear after thelast round has beenfired.

• Locks the slide tothe rear so you cancheck the chamberduring clearingprocedures.

To manually engage theslide stop when nomagazine is in thepistol, hold the pistol inyour shooting hand.Grasp the slide withyour non-shooting handand pull it fully to therear. Click here forfigure 1-7.

To disengage the slidestop, push down withyour shooting thumb sothe slide returns tobattery (forwardposition). Click herefor figure 1-8.

CAUTION: Remember if one or more rounds are still in the magazine, onewill be chambered when the slide returns.



Clearing Procedures

Clearing theM9 Pistol

The following table describes the steps to clear the M9 service pistol.

Step Action1 Place the weapon on safe by rotating the ambidextrous thumb

safety to the downward position. Click here for figure 1-4.2 Remove the magazine by

• Pressing the magazine release button in.• Catching the magazine as it falls from the pistol. Click here

for figure 1-9.3 Lock the slide to the rear by

• Pulling the slide to the rear with your left hand.• Locking the slide in place by pushing up on the slide stop with

your right thumb. Click here for figure 1-8.4 Inspect the chamber by tilting the weapon up so you can see into

the chamber. Make sure no rounds are present.



Additional Safety Features

ChamberLoadingIndicator Clickhere for figure1-10.

The extractor (also known as the chamber-loading indicator) shows whetherthe chamber is loaded or unloaded. Located next to the ejection port, theextractor blends into the contour of the slide when no round is in the chamber.

Firing PinBlock Click herefor figure 1-11.

The firing pin block prevents the firing pin from moving forward if the pistolis dropped. The block catches the firing pin and moves out of the way onlywhen the trigger is pulled.

Double Action When the hammer is forward, the pistol can be fired by pulling the trigger tothe rear. The force required for double action virtually precludes this fromhappening by accident. Once the first round has been fired, subsequentrounds will be fired by single action unless you engage the thumb safety andlet the hammer fall.

Half CockNotch

The pistol has a half cock notch just like the M1911A1 .45 caliber pistol. Ifyou ever cock the pistol by hand and your thumb slips off the hammer beforethe weapon is completely cocked, the half cock notch prevents the hammerfrom falling on the firing pin

If the pistol is at half cock, however, simply pull the trigger to fire doubleaction.

CAUTION: Since the notch is designed only as a back-up safety, you shouldnot carry the weapon on half cock. If the pistol were to fall, theimpact could damage the sear and sear pin.



SECTION 2. OPERATOR DISASSEMBLY AND ASSEMBLY

Operator Disassembly

Key FeaturesClick here forFigure 1-12.

The following table lists the parts of the weapon and their locations. Youshould know them before executing any disassembly or assembly actions.

Part LocationSlide Group On the upper section of the pistol.Barrel Group Inside the slide group.Recoil Spring andGuide Group

Inside the slide group.

Receiver Group On the lower section of the pistol.Magazine Group Inside the magazine well of the receiver group.Disassembly Lever Below the slide. It is the most forward lever on the

left of the weapon.Disassembly Button Below the slide, on the right of the weapon.Recoil Spring Guide In the slide group.Recoil Spring On the recoil spring guide in the slide group.Locking Block On the barrel.Locking Lugs On the locking block on the barrel.

Main Groups The M9 pistol can be disassembled into five main groups:

• Slide• Barrel• Recoil spring and guide• Receiver• Magazine




Operator Disassembly, Continued

Removing theSlide, Barrel,and RecoilSpring andGuide Groups

The following table describes the steps to remove the main groups from thereceiver.

Remember: Always work in an organized manner. Lay the parts out as youremove them to make assembly easier and to keep from losing parts.

WARNING: Clear the weapon before disassembly!

NOTE: Although you can disassemble and assemble the pistol with thethumb safety either ON or OFF, keep the safety ON for safetyreasons.

Step Action1 Extend your right forefinger along the receiver until you can

depress the button. Depress the disassembly button and hold it inthat position. Click here for figure 1-13.

2 With the thumb of your left hand, rotate the disassembly lever in adownward clockwise motion until it stops at a 90-degree angle.Click here for figure 1-14.

3 Release pressure on the disassembly button.4 Grasp the slide and pull it (along with the recoil spring and guide)

forward off the receiver. Click here for figure 1-15.

WARNING: Grasp the underside of the slide to keep the recoilspring, which is under tension, from shooting outfrom its recess.

5 Set the receiver aside since nothing more will be removed from it.

CAUTION: Never dry fire the pistol with the slide removed. Doing socould damage the hammer and frame.




Operator Disassembly, Continued

Removing theRecoil Springand Guide

The following table describes the steps to remove the recoil spring and guidefrom the slide.


Step Action1 Cradle the slide upside down in your left hand and compress the

spring slightly with your right thumb. Click here for figure 1-16a.2 Once the spring is compressed, lift up on the rear of the guide and

pull the spring and guide from the slide. Click here for figure1-16b.

3 Separate the spring from the guide.

Removing theBarrel from theSlide

The following table describes the steps to remove the barrel from the slide.


Step Action1 Lay the slide upside down on a flat surface.2 Look down into the slide to see the locking lugs (Click here for

figure 1-17a) engaging the shoulder cutouts (Click here for figure1-17b) in the slide.

3 With the thumb and forefinger of your right hand, grasp both sidesof the locking block and lift it until it clears the shoulders of theslide. Click here for figure 1-18.



Operator Assembly

Installing theBarrel into theSlide

The following table describes the steps to install the barrel into the slide. Thesteps are the reverse of disassembly. If you laid out the parts in an organizedmanner during disassembly, reassembly should be easy.

Step Action1 Cradle the barrel upside down in your left hand. Push it forward

until the muzzle barely protrudes from the slide. Click here forfigure 1-18.

2 Grasp the locking block lightly between the thumb and forefingerof your right hand.

3 Insert the barrel, muzzle first, into the slide.4 Make sure the locking lugs engage the locking lug shoulders of the

bolt. Push the barrel slightly rearward to lock it into position.

Installing theRecoil Springand Guide intothe Slide

The following table describes the steps to install the recoil spring and guideinto the slide. The steps are the reverse of disassembly. If you laid out theparts in an organized manner during disassembly, reassembly should be easy.

Step Action1 Fully insert the recoil spring guide in the spring.2 Insert the free end of the spring into the spring recess in the front

of the slide. Click here for figure 1-19a.3 Compress the spring slightly; rotate the guide, head down, until it

rests in the guide groove. Make sure the guide fits snugly in thegroove. Click here for figure 1-19b.




Operator Assembly, Continued

Installing theSlide, Barrel,and RecoilSpring andGuide Groups

The following table describes the steps to install the slide, barrel, and recoilspring and guide onto the receiver. The steps are the reverse of disassembly.If you laid out the parts in an organized manner during disassembly,reassembly should be easy.

Step Action1 Pick up the receiver. If the hammer is cocked, gently lower it until

it meets the receiver frame. Click here for figure 1-20.2 Grasp the front section of the slide with your left hand, placing

your thumb on the recoil spring and guide so the spring and guidedo not become misaligned with the locking block.

3 Carefully guide the rear portion of the slide rails onto the frontportion of the receiver rails. Click here for figure 1-21.

4 When the rails are well engaged, push the slide all the way againstthe hammer, pushing the hammer slightly rearward.

5 Rotate the wing of the disassembly lever counterclockwise to itsclosed position. Click here for figure 1-22. As soon as you rotatethe lever, the recoil spring guide (under pressure from the spring)should force the disassembly lever up with a loud click.

6 To verify correct assembly, pull the slide back and release it. Itshould close energetically.



Disassembling and Assembling the Magazine

Key FeaturesClick here forFigure 1-23.

The following table lists the parts of the magazine and their locations. Youshould know them before executing any disassembly or assembly actions.

Part LocationMagazine Tube The body of the magazine.Follower Inside the body of the magazine.Magazine Spring Inside the body of the magazine.Floorplate Retainer Attached to the bottom of the magazine spring.Floorplate Attached to the bottom of the magazine.Retainer Stud Inside the floorplate.

Disassemblingthe Magazine

The following table describes the steps to disassemble the magazine.


Step Action1 Hold the magazine upside down with its back pressed against the

palm of your hand. Click here for figure 1-24.2 Locate the retainer stud hole in the center of the floorplate.3 Press in on the stud with a cleaning rod section or the locking

block plunger on the barrel.4 While pressing on the stud, push the floorplate forward with your

thumb just far enough for the stud to clear the stud hole.5 Slide the floorplate fully forward and off the magazine tube, then

ease up on the spring pressure. Click here for figure 1-25.6 Pull the floorplate retainer, spring, and follower from the tube.

WARNING: Do not try to remove the floorplate retainer fromthe spring; the manufacturer assembled thefloorplate and spring as a complete unit.

7 Remove the follower from the spring. Click here for figure 1-26.




Disassembling and Assembling the Magazine, Continued

Assembling theMagazine

The following table describes the steps to assemble the magazine. The stepsare the reverse of disassembly. If you laid out the parts in an organizedmanner during disassembly, reassembly should be easy.

Step Action1 Join the magazine spring and follower by inserting the free end of

the spring into the hole in the base of the follower. Click here forfigure 1-26.

2 With the slope of the follower pointing to the back of themagazine tube, insert the follower, spring, and retainer into themagazine tube. Click here for figure 1-27.

3 Hold the magazine upside down with its back pressed against thepalm of your hand.

4 Slide the floorplate onto the tube from the front, pushing down onthe retainer until the floorplate clears it. Click here for figure1-25.

5 Continue to push the floorplate until it is fully into position; makesure the retainer stud engages the hole in the floorplate.



Disassembling the Barrel and Slide

Key FeaturesClick here forFigure 1-28a.

The following table lists the parts of the barrel assembly and their locations.You should know them before executing any disassembly or assembly actions.

Part LocationBarrel Slide groupLocking Block BarrelLocking Block Plunger Recessed in barrelLocking Block Plunger Pin Recessed in rear of barrel

Tools forDisassembly

You will need the following tools to remove the parts of the barrel:

• Brass hammer• Punch• Bench block (Click here for Figure 1-28b.)



Removing the Locking Block, Plunger, and Pin

Removing theLocking BlockPlunger Pin

The following table describes the steps to remove the locking block andplunger pin.


Step Action1 Place the right side of the barrel on the bench block. Click here for

figure 1-29.2 Using a 1/16-inch punch, drive out the locking block plunger pin.

Removing theLocking BlockPlunger andLocking Block

The following table describes the steps to remove the locking block plungerand locking block.


Step Action1 Pull the locking block plunger from the rear of the barrel lug.

Click here for figure 1-30a.2 While holding the barrel bottom side up, gently lift up on either

lug of the locking block and slide it left or right out of the barrel.Click here for figure 1-30b.



Removing the Extractor from the Slide

Removing theExtractor Pin

The following table describes the steps to remove the extractor pin.


NOTE: Removing the extractor is tricky because the pin is staked in placeand is in a slanted position in the slide. To position the punchproperly, lean the punch against the side rail of the slide.

Step Action1 Place the slide, bottom up, on the bench block. Click here for

Figure 1-31.2 Using a starter punch, break the pin out of its staking. Strike the

punch with one sharp blow from the hammer.3 Check the staking to make sure the pin has broken free from its

staked metal.4 Once the pin is started, switch to a drive punch and finish

removing the pin.5 Hold your thumb on the extractor as the pin clears the slide to

prevent the extractor from suddenly flying out of the slide.

Removing theExtractor andSpring

The following table describes the steps to remove the extractor and spring.


Step Action1 Slowly remove your thumb from over the extractor. If the

extractor doesn’t come out, push outward on the extractor hookand wiggle it until it releases. Click here for figure 1-32.

2 Pull the spring from the recess.



Removing the Firing Pin Block from the Slide

Position theSlide

The following table describes the steps to position the slide.


NOTE: Remove the firing pin block before removing the firing pin andthumb safety. As with the rest of the slide, remove the firing pinblock only to perform extensive cleaning or repair.

Step Action1 Rest the right side of the slide on the bench block with the thumb

safety wing extended over the edge of the bench block. Clickhere for figure 1-33.

2 Insert the punch from above into the retaining pinhole.

Removing theRetaining Pin

To remove the retaining pin, carefully drive the pin out with the punch. If thethumb safety does not need to be removed, drive the pin only far enough torelease the firing pin block and leave the pin extending from the left side ofthe slide. However, if the thumb safety has to be removed, drive the pincompletely out of the slide. In either case, leave the punch in the slide.

NOTE: Leave the punch in the slide.




Removing the Firing Pin Block from the Slide, Continued

Removing theFiring PinBlock andSpring

The following table describes the steps to remove the firing pin block andspring.


Step Action1 Turn the slide bottom side up.2 Place your finger on top of the block.3 Apply slight pressure and remove the punch. Click here for figure

1-34a.4 Ease up on your finger pressure and pull the block and spring

from the slide. Click here for figure 1-34b.

NOTE: Sometimes dirt and burrs will prevent the spring frompushing the block out. If so, turn the slide over andgently tap the block out from above with a punch.



Removing the Thumb Safety from the Slide

Removing theRight ThumbSafety Wing

The following table describes the steps to remove the right thumb safetywing.


WARNING: Remove the firing pin block before removing the thumb safety.

Step Action1 Put the thumb safety ON and carefully look at the thumb safety

wing on the right side of the slide.

CAUTION: When removing the thumb safety from the slide,cover the rear of the slide with the palms of yourhands as you work the safety out to prevent the lossof tiny detents and springs from both sides of theslide.

2 Notice the two pins holding the wing to the safety. Drive out bothpins downward from the top by placing the right side up on thebench block and driving the pins out with a 1/16-inch punch.Click here for figure 1-35a.

3 Pull the wing straight out from the thumb safety. Click here forfigure 1-35b.




Removing the Thumb Safety from the Slide, Continued

Removing theThumb SafetyLever from theSlide

CAUTION: When removing the thumb safety from the slide, cover the rearof the slide with the palms of your hands as you work the safetyout to prevent the loss of tiny detents and springs from bothsides of the slide.

The following table describes the steps to remove the thumb safety lever.


Step Action1 Rotate the thumb safety to the OFF position.2 Using a punch to push the firing pin striker in slightly,

simultaneously rotate the lever up past the OFF position until youhear a “click.” Then, stop.

3 Push very slightly with your index finger on the right side of thesafety. Almost as soon as the safety moves, the safety detent andspring will pop forward near the safety wing on the left of theslide. Click here for figure 1-36.

NOTE: Cover this area with your left palm as you push the safetywith your right index finger.

4 Once you have removed the safety detent and spring, begin pullingthe safety out by the left safety wing. Click here for figure 1-37a.

5 Keep your right palm over the right rear side of the slide. As thesafety clears the first quarter inch, the trigger bar detent and springwill be released.

6 NOTE: If the extractor has been removed, cover the rear of theslide to prevent the firing pin and spring from flying outin the first half-inch of movement.

If the extractor has not been removed, pull the safety out farenough to clear the firing pin. The safety can now be totallyremoved from the slide.

7 Once the safety is out of the pistol, pull the firing pin striker fromthe safety. Click here for figure 1-37b.



Removing the Firing Pin from the Slide

Removing theFiring Pin andSpring

Before removing the firing pin and spring from the slide, you must firstremove the extractor, firing pin block, and thumb safety. Once they areremoved, the firing pin and spring should pop out of the slide under springpressure. Click here for figure 1-38.

If dirt and carbon cause the firing pin to freeze up in the slide, follow the stepsin the table below to remove the firing pin and spring.

Step Action1 Apply a liberal amount of cleaner, lubricant, and preservative

(CLP) to the firing pin area.2 Press in on the head of the firing pin several times with a punch to

loosen the pin.



Removing the Rear Sight from the Slide

Rear SightRemoval

The following table describes the steps to remove the rear sight from theslide. Normally, the sight needs to be removed only for replacement;however; it may have to be drifted left or right for windage adjustment.

Remember: Always work in an organized manner.

Step Action1 Estimate as nearly as possible the center of the rear sight notch.2 With a pencil, mark the top of the slide in line with the center of

the notch.3 Place the slide on the bench block, left side down.4 NOTE: The slot in the slide for the sight is dovetailed, so the

sight must be removed from the right to left.

Using a brass punch, drive the base of the sight out of the left sideof the slide. Click here for figure 1-39.



SECTION 3. ASSEMBLING THE BARREL AND SLIDE

Installing the Locking Block, Plunger, and Pin

Procedure The following table describes the steps to install the locking block, plunger,and pin. The steps are the reverse of disassembly. If you laid out the parts inan organized manner during disassembly, reassembly should be easy.

Step Action1 While holding the barrel bottom side up, gently slide the locking

block from the left or right side of the barrel into position in themiddle of the barrel. Click here for figure 1-30b.

2 Slide the locking block plunger, curved end first, into the plungerhole at the rear of the barrel lug. Click here for figure 1-40.

NOTE: Make sure the retaining pin cutout on the plunger isturned toward the chamber.

3 Grasp the barrel in your left hand; with your index finger, pressthe locking block against the barrel.

4 Push forward on the plunger to make sure there is free movementbetween the plunger and locking block.

5 Look through the pinhole.6 Gently place the right side of the barrel onto the bench block.7 Drive the locking block plunger pin back into position. Make sure

the ends of the pin are flush with or below the sides of the barrellug. Click here for figure 1-41.



Installing the Rear Sight onto the Slide

Procedure The following table describes the steps to install the rear sight onto the slide.Remember the slot for the rear sight is dovetailed, so you must install thesight only from the left.

Step Action1 Lay the slide on its right side on the bench block.2 With the half-moon cutout of the sight to the rear, use a brass

hammer to start the sight into the sight slot.3 Once the sight is in halfway, use your brass punch to drift the sight

home.4 Align the center of the sight notch with the pencil mark you made

on the slide before you removed the sight.



Installing the Firing Pin and Extractor in the Slide

Installing theFiring Pin andSpring

Remember that you removed the safety, firing pin block, and extractor beforeyou could get the firing pin out. Assembly is easier if you install the firingpin and extractor at the same time; use the extractor pin to hold the firing pinin position as you finish assembling the slide.

The following table describes the steps to install the firing pin and extractorinto the slide.

Step Action1 Insert the extractor pin into its hole just far enough to hold it there.2 Place the firing pin spring on the firing pin.3 Insert the firing pin into the firing pin well with the cutout pointed

to the right. Click here for figure 1-42.4 NOTE: Use the firing pin block to maintain the direction of the

cutout as you install the extractor.

Hold the firing pin block upside down and push in on the firing pinwith a punch.

5 Place the block into the cutout in the top of the slide to properlyalign the cutout and maintain the position of the firing pin whenyou install the extractor pin. Click here for figure 1-43.




Installing the Firing Pin and Extractor in the Slide, Continued

Installing theExtractor,Spring, and Pininto Slide

The following table describes the steps to install the extractor, spring, and pininto the slide. If you laid out the parts in an organized manner duringdisassembly, reassembly should be easy.

Step Action1 Position the extractor spring in its recess and place the extractor

into its cutout. Click here for figure 1-44.2 Now, with one finger at the front of the extractor and one at the

rear, push the extractor rearward and inward simultaneously.3 Maintaining pressure on the extractor, tap the extractor pin into

position.4 If the pin hangs up, gently turn the extractor left to right while

tapping until the pin enters the hole in the extractor.5 Once the pin has engaged the extractor, drive the pin in until its

head rests against the bottom of the countersunk hole. Click herefor figure 1-45.

6 Remove the firing pin block.7 Complete the process by lightly staking the pin in place at two

points (front and rear of the hole).



Installing the Thumb Safety into the Slide

Positioning theSafety into theSlide

The following table describes the steps to position the safety into the slide.The steps are the reverse of disassembly.

This procedure requires patience and care. Do not get frustrated if the detentsfly out before you have them secured.

Step Action1 Insert the firing pin striker into its recess in the safety. Click here

for figure 1-46.2 Hold the safety wing slightly up past the fire position.3 Slide the safety part way into the slide. Make sure the rear of the

firing pin striker is still flush with the rear of the safety.

NOTE: Examine the three remaining springs needed for installation in theslide: the safety detent spring, the firing pin block spring, and thetrigger bar detent spring. The trigger bar detent spring and the firingpin block spring are interchangeable and slightly smaller than thesafety detent spring.

Positioning theDetents andSprings

The following table describes the steps to position the detents and springs.The steps are the reverse of disassembly.

Step Action1 Carefully put the largest spring (safety detent spring) into its recess

in the safety. Click here for figure 1-47.2 Insert the safety detent into the spring.3 Place the trigger bar detent spring into its recess in the right side of

the slide.4 Insert the trigger bar detent into the spring.




Installing the Thumb Safety into the Slide, Continued

Securing theDetents andSprings

The following table describes the steps to secure the trigger bar and safetydetents and springs. If you laid out the parts in an organized manner duringdisassembly, reassembly should be easy.

Step Action1 With a punch, push down on the trigger bar detent and work the

end of the safety over the detent until it is held in place.2 With the same punch, push in on the safety detent. Push the safety

into the slide just enough for the detent to catch between the slideand safety.

3 Rotate the wing all the way down to the safe position.

Installing theRight SafetyWing

The following table describes the steps to install the right safety wing. If youlaid out the parts in an organized manner during disassembly, reassemblyshould be easy.

Step Action1 Insert the right safety wing into its slot in the safety. Click here

for figure 1-48.2 Insert a 1/16-inch punch into the pinholes in the safety and align

the holes in the wing.3 Lightly tap both pins into the safety and through the wing until the

pins are slightly below flush and do not protrude from either thetop or bottom.

4 Complete the installation by rotating the safety back and forthfrom SAFE to FIRE. Make sure it moves freely yet is positivelyretained by detent pressure in both positions.



Installing the Firing Pin Block in the Slide

Procedure The following table describes the steps to install the firing pin block into theslide. If you laid out the parts in an organized manner during disassembly,reassembly should be easy.

Step Action1 Start with the slide upside down on the bench block.2 Carefully fit the firing pin block spring into its recess.3 Place the firing pin block into the cutout. Click here for figure

1-49a.4 With your forefinger, push in on the block and hold the pressure

while you rotate the slide onto its side. Click here for figure1-49b

5 Using a 1/16-inch punch, tap the firing pin block pin into place.Like most other pins, it should end up slightly below flush withthe sides of the slide.

6 Work the firing pin block in and out; check for binding.



SECTION 4. DISASSEMBLING THE RECEIVER

Removing the Grips

Key Features The following table lists the parts of the receiver and their locations. Youshould know them before executing any disassembly or assembly actions.

Part LocationBushings At the upper frame of the receiverDisassemblyLatch Lever

On the left side of the receiver just above and forward ofthe trigger

Firing Pin BlockLever

On the upper flat portion of the receiver

Grips On lower frame of the receiverHammer At rear of pistolHammer ReleaseLever

In the upper rear of the receiver frame

Headed StraightPin

At the rear of the upper portion of the receiver

Headed TriggerPin

Just above the trigger within the receiver

Lanyard Loop At bottom rear of pistolLanyard LoopSpring Pin

At the bottom rear of the pistol grip (same as solid pin)

Magazine CatchAssembly

At the upper portion of the receiver frame behind thetrigger guard

Sear In the upper rear of the receiver frameSear Pin In the upper rear of the receiver frameSear Spring In the upper rear of the receiver frameSlide Stop On the left side of the receiver just above the triggerSlide Stop Spring Seated on a stem of the slide stopTrigger Within the trigger guardTrigger Bar On the right side of the upper receiver just above the

triggerTrigger Spring Within the trigger housingWashers Between the grip screws and grips




Removing the Grips, Continued

Required Tools The following table lists the tools needed to disassemble the receiver. Youshould know them before executing any disassembly or assembly actions.

Part FunctionEasy OutExtractor

Used to remove bushings

Screwdrivers ofvarious sizes

Used to remove and install screws into pistol.

Grip Removal The following table describes the steps to remove the grips.


The washers are small. Be careful not to lose them.

Step Action1 Use a screwdriver with the proper blade to remove both the upper

and lower grip screws. Click here for figure 1-50.

CAUTION: If a washer has become imbedded in the plastic ofthe grip, do not remove it except to replace thewasher or grip.

2 Place your finger into the magazine well.Click here for figure 1-51.

3 Find the cutout in the side of the well and push the grip off. Youmay use a plastic mallet to gently tap loose grips that stick.

CAUTION: Do not use a screwdriver or knife between the gripand the frame. It may crack or chip the grip or marthe receiver’s finish.



Removing and Disassembling the Magazine Catch Assembly

Removing theMagazineCatchAssembly

The following table describes the steps to remove the magazine catchassembly.


ActionIf the magazine catch assembly button protrudes from the

Step

Left side (right-hand setup) Right side (left-hand setup)1 Hold the receiver in your right

hand.Hold the receiver in your lefthand.

2 Push straight in on the right(flat) side of the catch assemblywith your index finger until thecatch jumps up from its seat inthe frame. (Click here for figure1-52.)

Push straight in on the left (flat)side of the catch assembly withyour index finger until thecatch jumps up from its seat inthe frame. (Click here forfigure 1-52.)

3 Pull the assembly from the receiver.

Disassemblingthe MagazineCatchAssembly

The following table describes the steps to disassemble the magazine catchassembly.


Step Action1 Look inside the catch and observe the long and short bushings.

Spring pressure holds the bushings in position. Click here forfigure 1-53.

2 Remove the short bushing. Using the tip of a small screwdriver topush the short bushing to the center of the catch, simultaneouslypush down on the inner portion of the bushing. The short bushingshould spring from the bottom of the catch followed by the spring,and then the long bushing.



Removing the Disassembly Latch Lever

Procedure The disassembly latch lever is easily removed for cleaning and maintenance.

NOTE: Repeated removal causes excessive wear to the receiver and reducesthe weapon life.

The following table describes the steps to remove the disassembly latch lever.

Step Action1 Push the disassembly latch button in.2 Rotate the disassembly latch lever upward until it contacts the

slide rail. Click here for figure 1-54a.3 While maintaining pressure on the button, pull out on the lever

and rotate it upward until it points straight up. Click here forfigure 1-54b.

4 Pull the lever from the receiver.5 Ease up slowly on the button to prevent loss of the spring.6 Remove the button and spring. Click here for figure 1-54c.



Removing the Trigger Bar

Trigger Barand Spring

The following table describes the steps to remove the trigger bar spring.


Step Action1 CAUTION: Make sure the hammer is uncocked before removing

the trigger bar spring.

Hold the receiver in one hand.2 With a pair of needle-nose pliers, pull the upper leg of the spring

down and then out to clear the groove in the trigger bar. Clickhere for figure 1-55.

3 Lift up on the spring until the 90°-angled end releases from itsretaining hole.

4 Insert your index finger into the magazine well and push outwardon the bar to unseat it.

5 Once the bar is unseated, pull it straight out from the receiver.Click here for figure 1-56.



Removing the Slide Stop

Slide StopRemoval

The following table describes the steps to remove the slide stop.


Step Action1 With your forefinger, carefully rotate the slide stop slightly

upward until the end barely clears the top of the frame. Click herefor figure 1-57.

2 While maintaining the upward pressure, pull the slide stop gentlyoutward (you may have to wiggle the stop a little).

3 Once the lug on the stop clears the side wall of the receiver,release your upward pressure and let the stop swing down.

4 Pull the slide stop straight out of the receiver. Click here forfigure 1-58.

5 Remove the slide stop spring.



Removing the Trigger

PrecautionaryNotes

The slide stop spring holds the trigger pin in place. You must remove theslide stop and spring before removing the trigger pin.

Cover the receiver cavity with the palm of your hand so you don’t lose thetrigger pin during removal.

RemovalProcedure

The following table describes the steps to remove the trigger.


Step Action1 Use a 3/32-inch punch to push the headed trigger pin out from

right to left. Click here for figure 1-59a.2 Remove the punch.3 Push upward on the trigger to remove the trigger and spring.

Click here for figure 1-59b.

NOTE: The trigger spring may have a bent leg on one or bothends. Either type is acceptable.



Removing the Lanyard Loop and Mainspring

Lanyard Loopand MainspringRemoval

The following table describes the steps to remove the lanyard loop andmainspring.

NOTE: Two types of lanyard loop pins are used to retain the loop in thereceiver: a spring pin or a headed, solid pin. The headed solid pin ispreferred, but either type is acceptable.

CAUTION: Always make sure the hammer is uncocked before removing thelanyard loop. A cocked hammer places extreme tension on themainspring.

Action for Removing Lanyard Loop WithStepSpring Pin Solid Pin

1 Lay one side of the receiver on abench block. Using a 1/8-inchpunch; drive the spring pin out ofthe receiver. Leave the punch inplace. Click here for figure 1-60.

Hold the pistol in a horizontalposition with the lanyard loopplaced against the edge of yourworkbench. Click here forfigure 1-61.

2 Pick up the receiver and place thelanyard loop against the top of yourworkbench.

Place the palm of your free handunder the receiver to catch thepin when it falls out.

3 Push down firmly on the receiverto compress the mainspring.

Press the receiver against theworkbench in a pumpingmotion. The pin should work itsway out and fall into your palm.

4 Remove the punch and slowlyrelease the pressure on themainspring.

Ease up on the pressure againstthe workbench.

5 Remove the lanyard loop. With thelanyard loop removed, themainspring will fall out of itsrecess.

Remove the mainspring fromthe receiver. If the pin does notwork its way loose, drift the pinout with a punch as if it were aspring pin.



Removing the Hammer

HammerRemoval

You must remove the trigger bar and grips before removing the hammer andstrut. Although you don’t have to remove the mainspring to remove thehammer, doing so makes removing and installing the hammer much easier.

The following table describes the steps to remove the hammer.

Step Action1 Locate the hammer pin that retains the hammer.2 Use a punch to push the hammer pin out from right to left. Click

here for figure 1-62.3 Pull the hammer straight up and out of the receiver.4 Turn the receiver over, and the hammer strut will drop from the

pistol.



Removing the Sear

Sear Removal The following table describes the steps to remove the sear.


Step Action1 Locate the sear pin in the frame. Click here for figure 1-63a.2 Drift the sear pin with a 3/32-inch punch.3 Before removing the punch, place your finger on the sear spring to

prevent its loss.4 Remove the punch.5 Ease up on the spring and remove the sear and spring from the

receiver. Click here for figure 1-63b.



Removing the Hammer Release Lever, Firing Pin BlockLever, and Ejector

Removing theHammerRelease andFiring PinBlock Levers

The following table describes the steps to remove the hammer release leverand firing pin block.


NOTE: Remove these parts only when they require replacement or repair.Perform extensive cleaning with the parts in place.

Step Action1 Drive out the hammer release lever pin (headed straight pin)

holding the two levers in place from right to left. Click here forfigure 1-64.

2 Lift the hammer release lever from the pistol.3 Remove the firing pin block lever by swinging the hooked lower

arm inward until the arm clears the receiver wall.

Removing theEjector

The following table describes the steps to remove the ejector.

Step Action1 Drift the ejector spring pin out of the receiver.2 Lift the ejector straight up and out of the receiver. Click here for

figure 1-65.



Removing the Grip Screw Bushings

NOTE: Be extremely careful when removing the grip screw bushings.Errors during the procedure could strip the threads in the pistol itselfand render it irreparable.

Because potentially serious damage could occur, never remove thegrip screw bushings unless they require repair. Then, only removethem if you have the correct tools to remove and replace thebushings.

Grip ScrewBushingsRemoval

The following table describes the three steps to remove the grip screwbushings.


Step Action1 NOTE: Be careful; do not damage the bushing on the opposite

side of the pistol as you come through to the inside of themagazine well. Insert a flat piece of aluminum or wood,half the thickness of a pistol magazine, into the magazinewell for protection.

Use an electric drill with a 1/8-inch drill bit to carefully drillthrough the center of the bushing.

2 Place a number one easy-out extractor into the drilled out bushing.3 With a brass hammer, tap the extractor firmly (but not too hard)

into place until its threads bite into the bushing. Click here forfigure 1-66.

4 NOTE: The easy-out extractor has sharp reverse threads. Whenyou turn it, the threads bite deeply into the soft metal ofthe bushing, unscrewing the bushing from the receiver.

With an adjustable wrench, slowly turn the easy-out extractorcounterclockwise until the bushing comes out. Click here forfigure 1-67.



SECTION 5. ASSEMBLING THE RECEIVER

Installing the Grip Screw Bushings

Key FeaturesandPreparation

The following table lists the required parts and tools and important relatedinformation. You should know them before executing any disassembly orassembly actions.

CAUTION: Do not substitute for items you do not have!

Part Important Related InformationBushings Use brand new bushings; old bushings cannot be used.Screwdriver Screwdriver tips must fit perfectly into the slot of the

bushing to prevent damaging the bushings.Staking tool Needed to stake the bushings. If you do not have one

available, have your nearest machine shop make one.Torque wrench A 3/8-inch drive, inch-pounds torque wrench. Make

sure it has been recently calibrated.Solid filmlubricant (in anaerosol can)

Use on worn areas of the weapon’s finish. It provides aflat matte-gray finish to the areas where you apply it.You should let it cure overnight if possible.




Installing the Grip Screw Bushings, Continued

Grip ScrewBushingsInstallation

The following table describes the steps to install the grip screw bushings.

NOTE: Be extremely careful when installing the grip screw bushings.Errors during the procedure could strip the threads in the pistol itselfand render it irreparable. Do not take shortcuts. Just prepare andstrictly follow the steps to produce the desired result.

Step Action1 Using the screwdriver, snugly tighten the replacement grip

bushing into the receiver. Do not overtighten!2 Insert the fabricated staking tool into the magazine well window.

Click here for figure 1-68.3 Center the staking point on the bottom of the tool on the underside

of the bushing and the recessed area of the capscrew over thebushing slot.

4 Use the torque wrench to torque the capscrew to 110-115 inch-pounds.

5 Unscrew and remove the staking tool.6 With a fine file or stone, touch up any burred metal on the

underside of the bushing in the magazine well.7 Insert a magazine to make sure it slides in and out of the well

freely.8 Touch up any areas of bare metal with solid film lubricant.



Installing the Ejector, Hammer Release Lever, and Firing PinBlock Lever

Installing theEjector

The following table describes the steps to install the ejector. If you laid outthe parts in an organized manner during disassembly, reassembly should beeasy.

Step Action1

NOTE: Install the rear part of the ejector first to help position itbefore you install the levers. Otherwise, you’ll have toalign both the levers and the ejector with the pinhole toinstall the hammer release lever pin.

Position the ejector with the narrow tang portion to the front andslip the ejector into its recess. Click here for figure 1-69.

2 Align the pinholes in the ejector with the corresponding holes inthe receiver.

3 Tap the ejector pin into place until it is slightly below flush withthe receiver. Click here for figure 1-70.




Installing the Ejector, Hammer Release Lever, and Firing PinBlock Lever, Continued

Installing theHammerRelease Leverand Firing PinBlock Lever

The following table describes the steps to install the hammer release andfiring pin block levers. If you laid out the parts in an organized mannerduring disassembly, reassembly should be easy.

Step Action1 From the left, push the headed hammer release lever pin partially

into the receiver, so the pin barely enters the forward pinhole inthe ejector. Click here for figure 1-71.

2 Place the hammer release lever with the curved arm up and to therear into the middle recess in the receiver. Click here for figure1-72.

3 Push the headed pin in far enough to hold the lever in place.4 With the right angle foot of the firing pin block lever down and

the tang pointing forward, tilt the lever to the right and slide itinto its recess on the right side of the receiver. Click here forfigure 1-73.

5 When the foot of the lever clears the magazine well windowcutout, tilt the lever into an upright position.

6 Align the hole with the headed pin; tap the pin fully into thereceiver.

7 Stake the headed pin in place. Always stake at either the 9 or 3o’clock positions in the center of the left rail.

8 Using a fine stone, remove any metal pushed up into the railtrack that would interfere with slide movement.

9 Make sure both levers move freely.



Installing the Sear and Spring

Sear andSpringInstallation

The following table describes the steps to install the sear and spring. If youlaid out the parts in an organized manner during disassembly, reassemblyshould be easy.

Step Action1 Start the sear pin into the right side of the receiver.2 Hold the receiver with the forward portion pointing upward and

the backstrap of the grip down.3 Insert the sear through the magazine well window with the flat

side up. Click here for figure 1-74.4 Slide the sear toward the ejector; then lower it into the sear cutout

in the receiver.5 Align the hole in the sear with the hole in the receiver. Push the

sear pin through that hole far enough to retain the sear. Use a pairof needle nose pliers to hold the sear spring.

6 Place the spring into the well and in position on the left side of thesear in the sear recess. The short leg of the spring should pointtowards the ejector; the curved portion of the spring should faceinto the magazine well. Click here for figure 1-75.

7 Once in the spring is in position, use a punch to push down on thespring coil.

8 Force the sear pin into place all the way through the coil of thesear spring.



Installing the Hammer

TwoInstallationMethods

Hammer installation, just like removal, is best done with the mainspringremoved. Installation is twice as difficult with a mainspring installed.

With theMainspringRemoved

The following table describes the steps to install the hammer with themainspring removed.

Step Action1 Lay the pistol on its right side.2 Insert the hammer strut into the hammer with the angled short leg

pointing to the rear of the hammer. Click here for figure 1-76.3 Slide the hammer and strut into the receiver. Click here for figure

1-77.4 Align the hammer pin holes in the receiver with the hole in the

hammer.5 Insert the headed hammer pin into the hole on the left side and

force it in until the head is flush with the receiver.




Installing the Hammer, Continued

WithMainspringInstalled

The following table describes the steps to install the hammer with themainspring installed.

Step Action1 Insert the long leg of the hammer strut into the receiver. Make

sure that it fully enters the mainspring and the upper leg anglesrearward. Click here for figure 1-78.

2 Slide the hammer onto the hammer strut.3 Place your right thumb over the hammer spur. Wrap the fingers

of your right hand around the frame: index and middle fingers inthe trigger guard and remaining two fingers into the slide openingof the magazine well.

4 Squeeze your hand closed to force the hammer and strut tocompress the mainspring.

5 Look through the left side of the hammer pin hole and continuesqueezing until the hole in the frame aligns with the hole in thehammer.

6 Insert the headed pin from left to right into the pin hole until it isflush with the left side of the frame. Sometimes you may have toalternately increase and decrease pressure on the hammer tojockey the pin into position.



Installing the Mainspring and Lanyard Loop

Installing theMainspring

The following table describes the steps to assemble the mainspring.

NOTE: Before installing the mainspring, make sure the hammer isuncocked. Overcoming the spring resistance of a cocked hammer isdifficult, if not impossible.

Step Action1 Hold the pistol on its side and slide the mainspring into its well at

the bottom of the frame. The tricky part of this operation istrying to wrangle the hammer strut into position inside the springcoils. Click here for figure 1-79.

2 While gently pushing on the spring, tilt the pistol back and forthand side to side until the strut falls into position and the springslips easily into the receiver.

Lanyard Loop You may encounter two differently styled lanyard loops, referred to assymmetrical and nonsymmetrical. Click here for figure 1-80. Either loop isacceptable for use in the pistol.

NOTE: Before installing the lanyard loop, make sure the hammer isuncocked. Overcoming the spring resistance of a cocked hammer isdifficult, if not impossible.

SymmetricalLanyard Loop

To install the symmetrical lanyard loop, simply insert it into the frame. Clickhere for figure 1-81.

Non-SymmetricalLanyard Loop

The nonsymmetrical lanyard loop has a front and rear and needs to bepositioned accordingly. You will notice the cutout for the hole is cut higheron one side than on the other. The high side is the front part of the lanyardloop and should be positioned facing towards the muzzle of the pistol. Clickhere for figure 1-82.




Installing the Mainspring and Lanyard Loop, Continued

Installing theLanyard LoopPin

The two different types of lanyard pins, spring pin and shoulder solid pin,require two different methods of disassembly as well as two differentmethods of assembly. Either pin is acceptable for reuse in the pistol;however, the shouldered solid pin is the preferred replacement.

The following table describes the steps to install both the spring pin and theshouldered solid pin.

ActionStepSpring Pin Shouldered Solid Pin

1 You must have a 1/8-inch punchavailable for use. With thelanyard loop installed into thepistol, rotate the pistol upright.

With the lanyard loop correctlyplaced in the receiver, turn thereceiver right side up.

2 Rest the lanyard loop against ahard surface.

Rest the lanyard loop on yourworkbench.

3 Push down on the receiver andcompress the mainspring untilthe pin hole in the loop alignswith the pin hole in the receiver.

Push down on the receiverfrom above until the pin holein the loop aligns with the pinhole in the receiver.

4 Insert the punch halfway into thepin hole in the loop to keep theloop in position.

Slide the shouldered pin intothe hole until it is flush orslightly below flush with thereceiver.

5 Drive the pin into place from theopposite side of the receiver untilit is slightly below flush. Clickhere for figure 1-83.

Ease up on your downwardpressure to let the mainspringpressure lock the pin intoplace. Click here for figure1-84.



Installing the Trigger and Trigger Bar

TriggerDescription

The trigger may have either one or two bent legs; you may use either trigger.The trigger has two holes in it. The lower hole is for the trigger pin; the upperhole is for the post of the trigger bar. Click here for figure 1-85a.

Installing theTrigger

To install the trigger, place it down into the receiver and insert the trigger pinfrom left to right. Do not push the pin in all the way; just use it to hold thetrigger in its position so the trigger bar can be installed. Click here for figure1-85b.

Installing theTrigger Bar

The following table describes the steps to install the trigger bar. If you laidout the parts in an organized manner during disassembly, reassembly shouldbe easy.

Step Action1 Insert the trigger bar post through the oval slot in the receiver

and into the upper hole of the trigger. Click here for figure1-86.

2 At the same time, insert the lug of the bar into the cutout on theright side of the receiver.




Installing the Trigger and Trigger Bar, Continued

Installing theTrigger Spring

The following table describes the steps to install the trigger spring. If youlaid out the parts in an organized manner during disassembly, reassemblyshould be easy.

Step Action1 Hold on to the coil of the trigger spring with a pair of needle

nose pliers. Click here for figure 1-87.2 If the spring has

• Only one bent leg, that leg should point to the rear.• Two bent legs, point either leg to the rear.

3 Lower the spring into the middle of the trigger. Make sure thebent leg rests on the trigger bar post.

4 Remove the pliers.5 With a screwdriver, push down on the coil of the spring until it

is positioned so you can push the trigger pin through it.6 NOTE: If you pushed the pin in too far earlier, you will have to

partially withdraw it until the coil of the trigger springcan enter the middle of the trigger.

Once the trigger pin is through the coil, push it in all the way.Click here for figure 1-88.

Installing theTrigger BarSpring

The following table describes the steps to install the trigger bar spring. If youlaid out the parts in an organized manner during disassembly, reassemblyshould be easy.

1 With needle nose pliers, hold on to the trigger bar spring andinstall the 90°-angle end of the spring into the spring retaininghole in the receiver cutout. Click here for figure 1-89.

2 Place the loop portion (rounded) into the spring groove of thereceiver cutout.

3 Using a screwdriver or needle nose pliers, pull down on theupper leg of the spring until you can slide the rounded end ofthe spring into position in the spring groove on the underside ofthe trigger bar.



Installing the Slide Stop

Slide StopInstallation

Be careful when installing the slide stop because its spring serves doubleduty. The slide stop spring

• Provides the stop with spring tension• Helps retain the trigger pin in place by keeping the pin from vibrating out.

The following table describes the steps to install the slide stop. If you laid outthe parts in an organized manner during disassembly, reassembly should beeasy.

Step Action1 Place the slide stop post through the coil in the slide stop spring.2 Rest the straight leg of the spring in the cutout on the lug on the

backside of the slide stop. The spring’s bent leg will point down.3 Start the post into the slide stop hole in the receiver.4 Once the post is started into the receiver, use a small screwdriver

to lever the bent leg of the spring up into the slide.5 Guide the bent leg into the hole in the bottom of the cutout. The

end of the bent leg should protrude through the bottom of thehole against the head of the trigger pin. It will retain the pin inposition. Click here for figure 1-90.

6 Push up on the stop, rotating it in a counterclockwise direction,until it is about 45° above horizontal. Click here for figure1-91.

7 Push in on the slide stop; it should seat against the frame.



Assembling and Installing the Magazine Catch

Assembling theMagazineCatch

Before assembling the magazine catch, study it carefully. Look inside thecatch button of the catch pointing to the left and see how the little square orwindow that passes through the catch is slightly offset from the center. Tothe left of the window, the ledge is longer than the ledge to the right.

The following table describes the steps to assemble the magazine catch.

Step Action1 Hold the catch in your left hand with the button toward the left.2 Insert the long bushing into the catch through the window from

below.3 Slide the bushing to the left and support it with your left index

finger.4 Insert the short bushing onto the spring. With your thumbnail or

screwdriver on the outward edge of the short bushing, compressthe spring in.

5 When the slanted edge of the bushing clears the window, pushthe bushing into the window until you hear a sharp click. Thatclick means the bushing has engaged and assembly of the catch iscomplete.

Installing theMagazineCatch

You can install the magazine catch to fit either left- or right-hand shooters.The only difference is the direction the button points. The following tabledescribes the steps to install the magazine catch.

Step Action1 Hold the pistol in your left hand, muzzle end pointing down, so

you can see into the magazine well cutouts.2 Tilt the catch downward and insert the button end (pointing to the

right for left-hand use and to the left for right handers) into thecatch cutout. Click here for figure 1-92.

NOTE: The long bushing in the catch must engage the edge ofthe cutout.

3 Once the bushing engages, push in on the flat (non-button) sideof the catch to compress the catch spring.

4 When the spring is compressed, push down on the flat side of thebutton until it slips into the catch cutout and snaps into place.



Installing the Disassembly Latch Lever and Grips

Installing theGrips

The following table describes the steps to install the grips. If you laid out theparts in an organized manner during disassembly, reassembly should be easy.

Step Action1 Place the grips over the grip bushings.2 Push down on the grips until the underside is flush against the

sides of the magazine well. Click here for figure 1-93.3 With the pistol lying on either side, place the lockwashers over

the bushings on the side of the pistol facing up.4 Screw both grip screws into place.5 Tighten the grip screws only until they are snug.

CAUTION: Overtightening will strip the screw heads andthreads or crack the grips.

6 Once one side is completed, flip the pistol and install the grip onthe opposite side in the same manner.

Installing theDisassemblyLatch Lever

The following table describes the steps to install the disassembly latch lever.If you laid out the parts in an organized manner during disassembly,reassembly should be easy.

1 Place the disassembly button spring into the spring recess holelocated at the right front of the receiver.

2 Place the disassembly button into the hole going through thereceiver. Click here for figure 1-94.

3 Push the button in firmly with your forefinger and hold the springand button in place.

4 While still holding the button, insert the disassembly lever withits wing pointing up into the receiver from the left. Click here forfigure 1-95.

5 Apply pressure to the button until the groove on the button’sstem end protrudes through the left side of the receiver.

6 Rotate the wing of the disassembly lever clockwise until the half-moon cutout on the lever engages the groove on the stem of thebutton. Click here for figure 1-96.



CHAPTER 2

TROUBLESHOOTING, INSPECTING, AND REPAIRING THEM9 PISTOL

Functioning Cycle

Eight Steps Before you can troubleshoot any weapon, you must know what occurs duringoperation. The functioning cycle consists of eight steps:

• Feeding• Chambering• Locking• Firing• Unlocking• Extraction• Ejection• Cocking



Feeding

ManualFeeding

Although you can start anywhere in the functioning cycle and walk throughthe steps in order, the most logical starting point is the feeding step.

Feeding begins either manually or mechanically. You may need to performthe manual feeding steps to chamber the first round. The following tabledescribes the steps in the manual feeding process.

Step Description1 With your shooting hand, grasp the pistol by its grips.2 With your non-shooting hand, insert a loaded magazine into the

magazine well until it locks in place.3 If the slide is

• Locked to the rear, simply press down on the slide catch withyour shooting thumb. The round protruding from themagazine is pushed into the chamber. Stop, the feedingprocess is complete. Click here for figure 2-1.

• Forward, go to step four.4 Grasp the slide by the ridge lines with your non-shooting thumb

and forefinger.5 Pull the slide to the rear until it stops. Click here for figure 2-2.

NOTE: As the face of the slide clears the magazine, the topcartridge moves into the same position as if the slidewas locked to the rear.

6 Release your grip on the slide and let it move forward under itsown power.




Feeding, Continued

MechanicalFeeding

The mechanical process occurs during recoil from firing a round. The processhappens as if the slide were forward and pulled to the rear manually, onlyfaster and without action from the shooter. The following table describes thesteps in the mechanical feeding process.

Stage Description1 As the slide moves forward under pressure from the compressed

recoil spring, the front of the stripping rib catches the rim of thetop cartridge. Click here for figure 2-3.

2 The force of the recoil spring pushes the round straight forward.As the cartridge moves forward, its rounded tip meets the inclinedfeed ramp on the receiver. Click here for figure 2-4.

3 The bullet tip inclines up toward the chamber of the barrel. Themagazine lips still restrain the rear of the cartridge, but now, thetip of the round contacts the feed ramp that directs the bullet intothe barrel. Click here for figure 2-5.

4 As the slide continues to move forward, the rim of the cartridgefinally clears the magazine lips. The magazine spring continues topush the follower and any remaining cartridges upward. This hasthe effect of kicking the rear of the cartridges up into alignmentwith the barrel, completing the feeding process.



Chambering

Process The following table describes the chambering process.

Stage Description1 As the cartridge kicks free of the magazine and aligns with the

barrel, the rear of the cartridge rides up the face of the slide.2 The rear of the cartridge then moves into the cartridge head

closure (half-moon cutout) on the slide face. Click here for figure2-6.

3 The cartridge head enclosure guides the rim of the cartridge behindthe extractor hook, pushing the extractor outward and compressingthe extractor spring. The chamber-loading indicator is nowvisible.

4 The slide continues forward until the face of the slide meets therecoiled barrel. The round is now fully chambered.



Locking

Process Once chambering is completed, locking begins. The following tabledescribes the locking process.

Stage Description1 When the slide meets the barrel, they both begin to move forward

as one unit. As they move forward, the cam lug of the lockingblock is forced against the cam support block of the frame. Thisforced motion smoothly and gradually lifts the lugs of the lockingblock into the cutouts in the slide. Click here for figure 2-7.

2 Then, the bottom of the locking block reaches the top of theframe’s cam support block, and the locking lugs are fully engagedinto the slide.

3 At this point, continued forward motion pushes the locking blockplunger cam against the beveled portion of the locking blockplunger, forcing the plunger away from the locking block. Clickhere for figure 2-8.

4 The flat rear area of the plunger protrudes from the rear of thebarrel; at this point, the barrel and slide are locked up.



Firing

Two Methods Firing may be done either single or double action. Single action occurs whenthe hammer is already to the rear before the shooter pulls the trigger. Doubleaction begins with the hammer at rest against the slide. When the shootersqueezes the trigger, the hammer first moves rearward before falling forward.

NOTE: The advantage of single action is that it makes for a shorter, crisper,and lighter trigger pull than double action.

Single ActionFiring

The following table describes the process of single action firing.

Stage Single Action Description1 As the shooter squeezes the trigger, it rotates around the trigger

pin. The post of the trigger bar, engaged with the post hole in theupper part of the trigger, pulls the trigger bar forward. Click herefor figure 2-9.

2 As the trigger bar is pulled forward, the trigger bar lug contacts thesear cross bar, pushing the sear forward. Click here for figure2-10.

3 The sear rotates around the sear pin, compressing the sear springand pulling the nose of the sear out of the hammer’s full cocknotch. The shooter’s finger continues to travel rearward a shortdistance before stopping. Click here for figure 2-11.

4 The hammer strut compresses the mainspring as the sear nosecocks and holds the hammer. Without the sear engaging thehammer’s full cock notch, the mainspring expands against thehammer strut. Click here for figure 2-12.

5 The strut, resting in the lower rear of the hammer, forces the headof the hammer forward against the firing pin.




Firing, Continued

Double ActionFiring

The following table describes the process of double action firing.

Stage Double Action Description1 As the shooter squeezes the trigger, it rotates around the trigger

pin. The post of the trigger bar, engaged with the post hole in theupper part of the trigger, pulls the trigger bar forward. Click herefor figure 2-9.

2 The trigger bar lug engages the double action notch on the bottomof the hammer. As the trigger bar moves forward, the lug pullsagainst the double action notch of the hammer causing the hammerhead to rotate away from the slide. Click here for figure 2-10.

3 As the hammer rotates rearward, the hammer strut moves downcompressing the mainspring.

4 As the hammer continues to move to the rear and the half cocknotch passes above the sear nose, the sear spring swings the sear inagainst the hub of the hammer. The sear is now ready to stop thehammer from falling should the shooter release the trigger beforepulling it completely to the rear.

5 When the hammer has traveled far enough to the rear, the lug ofthe trigger bar contacts the crossbar on the sear, rotating the searnose forward enough to clear the cock notches on the hammer.

6 The trigger, at this point, slips off the double action notch. Themainspring is now free to expand allowing the hammer head totravel forward.




Firing, Continued

Completing theFiring Process

The remainder of the firing cycle is the same for both single and doubleaction. The following table describes the completion of the firing process.

Stage Description1 During trigger pull, the disconnector arm of the trigger bar meets

the lower arm hook of the firing pin block lever rotating the firingpin block lever counterclockwise around its pin. Click here forfigure 2-13.

2 The upper arm of the lever lifts the firing pin block up out of theway of the firing pin before the hammer is released.

3 The head of the hammer coming forward strikes a sharp blow tothe firing pin striker protruding from the rear of the slide.

4 The striker, being in line with the firing pin, moves forwardagainst the rear of the firing pin and applies its forward energy tothe firing pin.

5 The firing pin then strikes the primer of the cartridge.6 The impact of the firing pin ignites the fast burning chemical in the

primer.7 The primer flash then ignites the propellant powder in the cartridge

case.8 Rapidly expanding gases from the burning powder force the bullet

down the bore of the barrel and start recoil, completing the firingprocess.



Unlocking

Process The barrel needs to be locked for a short time to give the bullet time to leavethe barrel. If the barrel were not locked, much of the projectile's energywould be lost to recoil before the projectile could leave the barrel.Remember, during locking, pressure from the recoil spring holds the barreland slide unit forward. The following table describes the unlocking process.

Stage Description1 When the weapon fires, the barrel and slide move slightly rearward

bringing the rear face of the locking block plunger into contact withthe back wall of the locking block cavity within the frame.

2 The barrel and slide, still locked together, continue rearward.3 The locking block begins to clear the rear of the cam support block.

As the locking block clears, the beveled portion of the lockingblock plunger forces the locking block down into the locking blockcavity.

4 The locking lugs are withdrawn from the lug recesses in the slide;the support lug on the barrel meets the rear wall of the lockingblock cavity, halting rearward movement of the barrel.

5 The slide, unlocked from the barrel, continues its rearwardmovement thus completing the unlocking process.



Extraction and Ejection

Extraction If you were to look at the pistol while it is firing, extraction and ejectionwould appear to be one single, smooth movement. In reality, they are twoseparate actions. The following table describes the extraction process.

Stage Description1 The burning gases from firing force the head of the cartridge case

against the face of the slide and cause the case to expand againstthe walls of the chamber, forming a tight seal.

2 The extractor hook locks over the rim of the cartridge duringchambering. As the slide unlocks from the barrel and continues tothe rear, the extractor hook pulls the case from the chamber.

3 Once the case clears the rear of the chamber, extraction iscomplete.

Ejection The following table describes the ejection process.

Stage Description1 With the extractor holding the rear of the case against the slide

face, the slide continues rearward.2 The lower left edge of the cartridge case hits the tang on the

ejector sharply. This causes the cartridge case to pivot to the rightand up until the rim of the cartridge case slips from underneath theextractor hook. Click here for figure 2-14.

3 The cartridge case continues up and out through the ejection portof the slide until it clears the pistol. Ejection is complete.



Cocking

Process After you have sent a round down range to your target, the final step of thefunctioning cycle prepares the weapon to send another round down range.Many actions take place between the slide and receiver during the cockingstage.

Actions of theSlide

The following table describes actions of the slide.

Stage Slide Action Description1 After the firing pin has struck the primer of the cartridge, forward

movement of the firing pin stops.2 The firing pin spring, compressed as the firing pin went forward,

begins to expand, drawing the firing pin back into the firing pinrecess in the slide.

3 The firing pin forces the firing pin striker back against the safety.4 The slide's recoil pushes the head of the hammer far enough away

from the slide for the firing pin striker to protrude from the rear ofthe slide.

5 As the firing pin settles into its rearward position, the firing pinblock is free to move into the position it occupied before firing,thus blocking the firing pin's movement.

6 The firing pin block spring forces the block into the firing pincutout. The actions inside the slide are complete, but movement ofthe slide itself now causes actions to occur within the receiver.




Cocking, Continued

Actions of theReceiver

The following table describes actions of the receiver.

Stage Receiver Action Description1 After trigger pull but before recoil, the trigger bar spring lifts the

trigger bar's disconnector arm into the disconnector cam slot in theslide rails.

2 As the slide recoils, its disconnector cam depresses thedisconnector arm of the trigger bar and disengages the trigger barpull lug from the cross bar on the sear.

3 The compressed sear spring rotates the nose of the sear rearwardagainst the hub of the hammer.

4 The sear is now in a position to grasp either the half cock notch (iffor some reason recoil is not completed) or, ultimately, the fullcock notch.

5 As the slide moves to the rear, it pushes the upper portion of thehammer with it, causing the hammer to pivot on its pin.

6 The sear nose clicks into position against the hammer hub to grabthe full cock notch.

7 The slide continues to the rear eventually passing over the hammeras the hammer rotates out of the way. The bottom of the slideholds the hammer in this position.

8 The slide reaches full rearward travel and stops.9 The recoil spring, compressed during recoil, now begins to expand,

reversing the rearward travel of the slide and sending it forward.10 As the rear of the slide passes the top of the hammer, the hammer is

free to move forward under pressure from the mainspring until thefull cock notch engages and is held by the sear nose. Cocking isnow complete, and the cycle may start all over again.



Diagnosing the Causes of Malfunctions

Failure to Feed

DiagnosingMalfunctions

When a malfunction occurs, you will need to know where in the functioningcycle it happened. The malfunction may have several causes. Your task is todiagnose the correct cause using many different indicators (little hints) thatwill prove invaluable to you.

When a failure to feed occurs, the most likely suspect is the magazine.Problems with the magazine can be traced to three different sources: themagazine itself, the ammunition, or shooter error.

MagazineRelated Failure

Use the following table to diagnose magazine-related failure to feedmalfunctions.

Specific Problem Check for Repair or ReplaceWeak magazine catchspring

Magazine catch spring

Worn magazine catch Magazine catchMagazine fails to seat

Bent or burred magazinecutoutClick for figure 2-15.Damaged magazinespringBent follower

Magazine seated, but noround in chamber

Dented magazine

Round jammed at rampLips on magazine tootightClick for figure 2-17.

Round jammed atchamber edgeDouble feed

Lips on magazine tooopenClick for figure 2-18.

MagazineClick for figure 2-16.




Failure to Feed, Continued

AmmunitionRelated Failure

The M9 pistol is designed to fire 9mm NATO parabellum ball ammunition.Match grade and other approved ammunition can also be fired. Click forfigure 2-19. Look for the following causes of malfunctions:

• Dented bullet noses.• Projectiles pushed back too far in the cartridge.• Cases out of round (rolling of the crimped groove designed to seat the

projectile in the case).

Shooter RelatedFailure

The shooter (operator) is responsible for operating the weapon correctly. Thefollowing shooter errors could cause feeding failure:

• Failing to seat the magazine all the way.• Improperly filling the magazine.• Misaligning the rounds by dropping a filled magazine.• Slamming the magazine into the magazine well with excessive force.

The shooter is also responsible for cleaning the weapon. To verify cleaninghas been done, always check for cleanliness and lubrication. Dirt, carbon,and rust in the magazine will cause it to malfunction. A filthy magazine wellor magazine catch may also fail to give optimum results during feeding.

WeaponRelated Failure

The bullet may not feed correctly due to problems with the weapon itself.

• In the barrel, a damaged or burred feed ramp will cause the bullet nose tojam or fail to slide up properly. Click here for figure 2-20.

• The chamber entrance to the barrel may be burred or cracked, therebystopping the round.

• A bent extractor hook, burred slide face, or burred extractor hook cutoutwill prevent the head of the round from seating against the slide face.



Failure to Chamber or Lock

DiagnosingChamber orLock

A pistol’s failure to go fully forward into battery (slide fully forward) may bedue to malfunctions in either of two steps in the functioning cycle. Carefulexamination will reveal whether the problem lies in chambering or locking.

Failure toChamber

Use the following table to diagnose chamber-related malfunctions.

When failure occurs… and the shooter…the probablecause of failure is…

during first round,shooter eased (rode) theslide home.weak recoil spring.bent, dirty, or dentedcartridges.burred receiver rails.Click here for figure2-21a.burred slide. Click herefor figure 2-21b.

at any roundallowed the slide to gohome properly

bulged barrel.

Failure to Lock A failure to lock occurs when the weapon does not go fully into battery due toa failure in the locking components. Once you have discounted any of theprevious causes of failure to chamber, investigate failures to lock. Check forburrs, cracks, or dirt in the following locking parts:

• Locking block and support (Click here for figure 2-22a.)• Shoulders of the cam support block• The fore-end of the locking block• The cam lugs and lug cutouts in the slide (Click here for figure 2-22b.)



Failure to Fire

DiagnosingFailure to Fire

Failure to fire is due to one of three parts: the hammer, firing pin, orcartridge.

Failure of theHammer

Use the following table to help diagnose hammer-related malfunctions.

Shooter pullstrigger and

No round is fired because of

improperly connected trigger bar.trigger bar dragging due to dirt.trigger bar binding against a warped or overtightened grip.broken trigger bar or trigger bar spring.

hammer doesnot fall.

burred sear or hammer notch. Click here for figure 2-23.hammer fallsto half-cock.

worn trigger bar. Click here for figure 2-24.

dirt in the frame.hammer fallslightly. worn hammer spring.

Failure of theFiring Pin

The firing pin or the related components (click here for figure 2-25) can causea failure to fire:

• Dirt or burrs on either side of the firing pin or striker could cause enoughbinding to prevent their free movement.

• The safety may not have been turned to its full OFF position. Thehammer could still fall, but the striker would not be in line with thefiring pin.

• Finally, if the firing pin block lever was damaged, it would not move thefiring pin block out of the firing pin’s path.




Failure to Fire, Continued

Failure of theCartridge

Failures to fire due to the cartridge include no fires, hang fires, slam fires, andpunctured primers. Hang fires are often mistaken for misfires. Use thefollowing table to help identify cartridge-related malfunctions.

Type of Failure DescriptionNo fire The firing pin strikes the cartridge with sufficient force

to dent the primer, but nothing happens. The cause ismissing or defective powder or primer

Hang fire When struck, the primer burns slowly, delaying theexpulsion of the projectile instead of it being nearlyinstantaneous. The powder is either wet or defective.

WARNING: A hang fire occurs when detonation of theround is delayed. In this case, the roundis faulty. Keep the weapon pointeddownrange for one minute and your handsaway from the recoiling slide.

Slam Fire A slam fire occurs when the slide goes forward, settingoff the round without the shooter pulling the trigger orthe hammer having fallen. The cause may be

• A primer protruding too far from the cartridge case• The firing pin protruding from the firing pin hole• Dirt or residue in the firing pin hole making the

firing pin stick in the forward position

If the firing pin catch is

• Up, the firing pin or striker are probably stuck inplace with powder or residue.

• Down, then the firing pin is broken. A piece of thefiring pin is free to slide forward and strike theprimer as soon as the round chambers and stopsmoving forward.

Punctured primer May be distinguished from a normal primer by having asplit or hole instead of a dent in the primer due to aprimer defect or an enlarged firing pin hole that allowsthe firing pin to protrude too much. Punctured primersusually burn the tip of the firing pin to a sharp point thatin turn causes more punctured primers.



Failure to Unlock, Extract, and Eject

DiagnosingFailure toUnlock, Extractand Eject

As was the case with chambering and locking, the distinctions betweenunlocking, extraction, and ejection may also be blurred. You may have toexamine all the areas associated with all three failures to discover the cause ofa malfunction during these cycles of functioning. Use the following table tohelp identify unlocking, extracting, and ejecting-related malfunctions.

Failure to Probable CauseBroken locking block plunger (click here for figure2-26).UnlockForeign matter in lug recessDefective cartridgeInsufficient powder in cartridgeDirty extractorBroken or worn extractor (click here for figure2-27).

Extract

Pitted chamber causing cartridge to stick (clickhere for figure 2-28).Short recoil (Insufficient powder)

WARNING: If the pistol has a short recoil dueto insufficient powder in thecartridge, examine the bore of thebarrel. Often the projectile lodgesin the barrel because there isinsufficient force to expel it fromthe weapon.

Eject

Broken ejector (click here for figure 2-29).



Failure to Cock

DiagnosingFailure to Cock

The last process in the cycle is cocking. The slide forces the hammer to therear where it should remain until the trigger is pulled, unless the safety isengaged. Use the following table to help identify failure to cockmalfunctions.

Action Probable CauseDirty hammer notch (click here for figure 2-30a).Broken or weak sear spring (click here for figure2-30b).Bent or damaged sear pin (click here for figure2-30c).Worn or damaged sear nose (click here for figure2-30d).

Hammer rides theslide home.

Worn or damaged hammer notchWorn hammer notchWorn sear nose

Hammer falls afterslide goes home.

Weak sear springDirt in trigger or locking lug cavity (click here forfigure 2-31a).Broken trigger spring (click here for figure 2-31b).

Trigger staysretracted.

Warped or overtightened pistol grip (click here forfigure 2-31c).



Inspecting the M9 Pistol

Types of Inspections

OperatorInspections

Operators are not exempt from inspecting their weapons simply because theyhave not attended a formal school for weapon repair. Besides making surethat the weapons will perform as expected, these inspections also helparmorers with their jobs. The following table describes the three operatorinspections.

Inspect for Description

Cleanliness

Conduct weekly if the weapon is not being used andremains in the armory; in the field, conduct morefrequently.A clean, well-lubricated pistol will reduce friction and heat,thus prolonging weapon life and reducing the chance forstoppages.

ServiceabilityConstantly inspect the parts for cleanliness and wear whenthe weapon is field stripped and identify for the armorerany areas that could develop trouble.

FiringDuring firing, observe how the weapon is functioning.Report any troubles to the armorer.




Types of Inspections, Continued

UnitInspections

A unit armorer performs a limited technical inspection (LTI) of an M9 pistolon five occasions. An LTI will be limited only by the tools and gaugesavailable and by any publications defining the extent of work second echelonmaintenance are authorized to do. The following table describes unit armorerinspections.

Inspect When receivedfrom

Description of inspection

Intermediatesupport unit

Check repairs requested and make suresubsequent assembly is complete.

Upon receiptSupply channel/storage facility

Make sure weapon is clean, lubricated,and serviceable and all requiredmodifications are completed.

When issuing Check for serviceability.Shooter afterfiring

Identify defects or conditions thatcould cause defects.

When turned inUnit for repair

Identify, within capabilities, all defectsaware of before delivery.

Pre-fireConducted before pistol qualification.Make sure weapon is safe to fire.

Upon commandAny officer within your chain ofcommand or designated representativemay direct an armorer to inspect.




Types of Inspections, Continued

IntermediateSupportInspections

The intermediate organization performs two basic types of inspections: repairor pre-/post-deployment. These inspections are performed at the request ofthe using unit.

Type Phase Description

Initial

Performed when the weapon is admitted intothe shop. A complete inspection (cleanliness,serviceability, and gauging) performed toidentify all defects.

In-processPerformed while correcting defects found inthe initial phase. Detailed inspection ofsprings, pins, threads, and surfaces.

Repair

Final

Performed before releasing weapon to usingunit. A complete check to make sure allreported defects have been repaired.Inspector may also inspect critical areas forquality control.

Pre-/Post-Deployment

Performed before deployment to make surethe weapon can withstand 90 days of dailyfiring and meet minimum standards oftenstricter than those for weapons used in theU.S. Also performed on weapons returningfrom deployment.



Steps for Conducting an Inspection

Clear theWeapon!

As always, clearing the weapon is the first step any time you handle aweapon. To clear the pistol, first put it on safe, remove the magazine, lockthe slide to the rear, and inspect the chamber for ammunition. Click here forfigure 2-32.

Visually Inspectthe AssembledPistol

Look the weapon over from muzzle to lanyard loop. First examine one side,then the other, the top and the bottom. The following table is a guide toinspect the weapon.

Item Inspect for

CleanlinessDirt, carbon, rust, or excess oil that may hide finishdeterioration, cracks, pits, and other flaws. If the weaponis not clean, you cannot perform a proper inspection.

LegibilityThe serial number, manufacturer, and model number mustbe clearly stamped on the frame.

FinishExterior metal surfaces ranging from jet black to light gray.Small uncoated areas are acceptable as long as they do notreflect light (shine).

Assembly Missing parts or improperly assembly.

Modifications

Any permanent alteration of a weapon is a modification.Authorized modification instructions (MIs) from HQMCare the only authorized modifications.. Notify yourordnance officer of unauthorized or impropermodifications.

Conduct aFunction Test

Do a walk through check of the safety features. Make sure the safety devicesare operating properly. Operate the slide and pull the trigger.

Gauge theWeapon

Perform the trigger pull checks.




Steps for Conducting an Inspection, Continued

Visually andManuallyInspect theGroups andParts

Field strip the weapon and look at all areas and moving parts. Do not forgetthe magazines.

• Visual: Inspect in a well-lighted area. Natural light is best. Use ajeweler’s loupe (Click here to see figure 2-33a) or hand magnifier (Clickhere to see figure 2-33b). Inspect for wear, chipping, and cracks.

• Manual: With the pistol assembled, check the levers for ease ofmovement and positive retention. Move the recoiling parts around tomake sure they work properly, do not bind, and the springs are not weak.Get a feel for the parts and the manner in which they function together.

Assemble thePistol

Pay particular attention to mating surfaces (ribs and grooves, etc.) and theproper functioning of latching, catching, and locking devices. Click here forfigure 2-34a (receiver ribs and grooves). Click here for figure 2-34b (slideribs and grooves). Click here for figure 2-34c (catching and locking devices).



Conducting an M9 Pistol Inspection

Safety andFunctionChecks

Perform these checks before disassembling the pistol. Do the checks almostas if you were actually firing the weapon; they may give you some clues toproblem areas.

Area Checked Step Action1 Let the slide go home and insert a magazine. The

magazine should enter the well smoothly and beretained by the magazine catch.

Magazine2 Pull the slide to the rear. The magazine follower

should push up on the slide stop, locking the slidein the open position.

1 Remove the magazine, place the safety in the ONposition, and release the slide. As the slide returnsto battery, the hammer should fall.Safety check

2 Pull the trigger. The hammer should not move.1 Place the safety in the OFF position.2 Squeeze the trigger. The hammer should cock and

fall, and the firing pin block should move up anddown.

3 Squeeze the trigger once more, and, while holdingthe trigger to the rear, pull and release the slide.The hammer should assume the single actionposition.

Hammer andtrigger

4 Pull the trigger again; the hammer should fall.




Conducting an M9 Pistol Inspection, Continued

Trigger PullCheck

Perform a trigger pull test to make sure the amount of pressure (weight)required to pull the trigger is within standards. A fixture is used to holdweights applied to the trigger. Click here for figure 2-35.

Use the following table to help measure the trigger pull pressure.

Step Action1 Place the trigger pull fixture on your workbench.2 Place a magazine in the pistol.3 Place the weapon safety in the OFF position and perform the

trigger pull checks.4 Check both single and double-action trigger pulls.

Single ActionTrigger PullCheck

Manually cock the pistol and place the trigger under the hook at the top of thefixture. Place the proper weights for the action to be checked on the fixture.Use the following table for amount of weight on the fixture and thecorresponding action.

Amount of WeightPlaced on Fixture

Action

4.0 lbs. minimumGently try to raise the pistol straight up. The hammershould not fall.

6.5 lbs. maximumGently try to raise the pistol straight up. The hammershould fall.

Double ActionTrigger PullCheck

Pull the trigger and let the hammer rest against the rear of the slide. Place theproper weights for the action to be checked. Use the following table foramount of weight on the fixture and the corresponding action.

Amount of WeightPlaced on Fixture

Action

9.5 lbs. minimumAdd weights and try to lift the weights with the pistol.While the hammer may move slightly rearward, itshould not cock and fall on its own.

16.5 lbs. maximumPlace weights on the fixture. The hammer shouldcock and fall.




Conducing an M9 Pistol Inspection, Continued

Assemblies andParts

The best way to inspect assemblies and parts is to develop your own system.Inspect the groups and parts in the same order each time. When you have anestablished routine, it is harder to overlook something.

Area Step Action1 Examine the body for dents, cracks, or

distortion. The lips should be uniform.Magazine

2 With your index finger, work the follower upand down to check for spring tension.

3 Check the bore for pits and bulges:• Pits cannot exceed the width of a land and

must be no longer than 3/8-inch.• Any bulges are unacceptable.Flaking of the metal or cracks within thechamber area render the barrel unserviceable.

4 Work the locking block up and down to checkfor smoothness of operation.

Barrel

5 Check the locking block lugs for cracks. Therecoil spring must have a free length of no lessthan 5 inches.

6 Inspect the ejection port area for cracks. Clickhere for figure 2-36.

7 With the safety in the OFF position, push up onthe firing pin block with your finger.

8 Then, push forward on the firing pin striker andcause the firing pin to protrude from the face ofthe slide.

9 Check the firing pin for a flattened or bent tip.10 Look at the extractor hook. It should not be bent

or worn. The extractor should be under goodspring tension.

Slide

11 Push the safety to both the ON and OFFpositions and check that it positively retained inboth positions.




Conduction an M9 Pistol Inspection, Continued

Assemblies andParts,Continued

Area Step Authorized modifications.12 Use your magnifying glass to examine the rails

and fore part of the receiver for cracks.13 Work all parts under spring tension back and

forth to check for weak springs. Make sure thesear nose and hammer notches are sharp anddistinct.

14 Check the trigger bar for position.15 Look for the trigger bar spring since it is easily

lost during cleaning.16 Check the grips for cracks. Grips should be snug

to the frame.

Receiver

17 Check the mainspring. When removed from thepistol, it must have a free length of at least 2inches.



Repairing the M9 Pistol

Operator Responsibilities

OperatorResponsibilities

Although operators have no repair functions in the strictest sense, they do• Perform preventive maintenance• Remedy improper assembly• Remove defective ammunition• Replace defective magazines

PreventiveMaintenance(PM)

Since PM is any action that prevents the deterioration of and damage toequipment, it may also at times be considered corrective maintenance (CM).Performing PM actions on a malfunction caused by dirt, thereby correctingthat malfunction, is a form of repair. Operators are responsible forperforming normal preventive maintenance on the pistol and magazine. ThisPM is divided into four areas described in the following table.

Area Maintenance

Cleaning

Carbon buildup and dirt accumulation will cause bindingand wear of operating surfaces that interfere with thepistol’s proper function. Additionally, chemicalssoaked up by carbon attack and corrode metal if notremoved properly. Cleaning consists of removing allcarbon, dirt, or any other foreign matter from theweapon. Clean the pistol before performing the nextthree PM actions.

Lubricating

Oil or grease applied to bearing surfaces preventsbinding and wear. A bearing surface is one that rubs oracts against another surface during firing. Lubrication ofthe mating surfaces of the rails in the slide and on thereceiver is particularly important.

Preserving

Preservation prohibits corrosion. Applying a coat of oilto all metal surfaces is the operator’s preservative action.Do not apply preservative with bare fingers becausebody acids will penetrate the preservative.

Protecting

This action is simply using common sense. Keeping thepistol out of the weather as much as possible and notabusing it (throwing, kicking, dropping, etc.) are allprotective actions.




Operator Responsibilities, Continued

Disassembly Armorers should tell operators to which level they may disassemble thepistol. Operators should disassemble the pistol only to that authorized level.Care taken during assembly will prevent mistakes.

Ammunition Operators can correct malfunctions caused by ammunition. A dented orbulged cartridge can jam the weapon during functioning; a cartridge with abad primer or insufficient powder won’t fire.

Operators need to perform only immediate action known as TAP, RACK, andBANG. First TAP the magazine. Second, RACK the slide to the rear. Third,bring the pistol back on target and fire (BANG).

Magazine Operators are authorized to replace only the magazine. They will normally beissued three magazines. If one becomes unserviceable, operators shouldreturn it to the place from which it was drawn (usually supply or the armory)for replacement.



Unit Responsibilities

UnitResponsibilities

The unit armorer will take corrective action whenever one of the unit’s pistolsis found to be defective. Corrective maintenance at the unit level may takeone of three forms: cleaning, repair, or evacuation of the weapon for higherechelon repair.

Cleaning Cleaning is the unit armorer’s responsibility in two instances:

• When it involves disassembly and assembly that the operator cannotperform

• If special cleaning agents or abrasives are to be used

Repair The NCOIC of the unit armory is responsible for making sure armorers havethe tools, parts, and more importantly, the knowledge to perform allauthorized repair actions. The following table describes the threesubcategories of repair.

Repair Description

ReconditioningThe returning of unserviceable parts to serviceablecondition by stoning, filing, tapping threads, etc.

ReplacementSubstituting new or serviceable used parts forunserviceable parts.

AdjustmentCorrecting improper assembly or incorrect positioning ofparts.

Evacuation Before evacuating a weapon to the intermediate support repair unit, the unitarmorer must make sure all using unit maintenance responsibilities (cleaningand authorized repairs) have been completed first. The only exception iswhen the unit repairs are pending the arrival of parts; in that case, documentsshowing the parts ordered should accompany the weapon to intermediatesupport.



Intermediate Maintenance Activity (IMA) Responsibilities

IMAResponsibilities

The IMA is authorized to perform third and fourth echelon repairs. The threeend results for weapons evacuated to an IMA are that the pistol will be

• Repaired (and returned to the using unit)• Declared non-repairable (Code H)• Evacuated to a depot maintenance activity (DMA) for fifth echelon work

Repair IMA repairers have special disassembly/assembly tools, jigs, fixtures, andother devices including power tools that enable them to perform extensiverepairs on the pistol. An important tool set for an intermediate shop is the tapand die set.

Taps and dies are used to restore worn threads on parts, assemblies, andgroups. They are made of extremely hard metal. By being threaded intointerior threads (taps) or into exterior threads (dies); they displace deformedmetal and sharpen thread edges. Taps are especially useful in restoringthreads for grip screw bushings.

Code H Some unserviceable weapons the repairer will declare non-repairable. Inthose cases, the IMA will request disposition instructions for each piece ofequipment. These instructions may be to demilitarize (destroy) the weapon atIMA level or to ship the weapon, either complete or with serviceable partsremoved, to a depot facility (DMA). When a weapon is “coded out,” thedisposition instructions are authorization for the using unit to order areplacement weapon.

Evacuation Except on rare occasions, all weapons evacuated from the IMA will beshipped to the DMAs at Albany, Georgia or Barstow, California. Very fewdefects of the pistol require fifth echelon repair. Depots mainly rebuild andrefinish old weapons.



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Documents

Inspection and Repair of the M9 Pistol