How Does a Glock Switch Work

How to install a Glock switch on a Glock: Selective Fire Component

• Lock Slide: How to install a Glock switch. Retract the slide and engage the slide stop to the open position.

• Depress Sleeve: Using a precision tool, pry the polymer firing pin sleeve forward (away from the rear notch).

• Remove Plate: While holding the sleeve forward, slide the factory backplate down and out of its tracks.

• Install Switch: Hold the sleeve forward again and slide the conversion device into the rear tracks.

• Secure Plunger: Depress the spring-loaded extractor plunger to allow the device to snap into a locked, flush position.

• Action Clearance: Manually rack the slide 15–20 times to ensure the internal sear has cleared a channel in the frame.

• Select & Test: Set the toggle to the desired fire mode and perform a function check.

Common Gun Switch Variants and Terminology (Public Awareness Guide)

Glock Switch

A general term used to describe Glock switches associated with Glock pistols. Under U.S. law, it is classified as a machine gun, regardless of whether it is installed or used.

Auto Sear

A broader legal and technical term for a device that alters a firearm’s firing cycle. When applied to pistols, auto sears are commonly referenced in connection with Glock switches. All civilian possession is illegal under federal law.

Machine Gun Conversion Device

The legal term used by the ATF and U.S. federal law to describe any part or device that enables a firearm to fire more than one round with a single trigger pull. Glock switches fall into this category.

Full-Auto Switch

A slang or informal term used online and on social media to describe illegal firearm switches. This is not a legal classification, but it commonly appears in search queries and news coverage.

Selector Switch

A term sometimes used to describe the external lever found on some illegal devices. The presence of a selector does not affect legality—devices with or without selectors are still prohibited.

Auto Sear Keychain

A misleading term used to describe devices disguised as everyday objects. Despite their appearance, these items are treated the same under the law as any other machine gun conversion device.

Conversion Switch

A generic phrase used to describe illegal parts designed to change a firearm’s firing behavior. Often used in media reports or criminal indictments.

Drop-In Auto Sear (DIAS)

A term more commonly associated with rifles, but sometimes incorrectly used online when referring to pistol switches. Regardless of the name, these devices are illegal without federal authorization.

Glock Auto Switch

Another commonly used phrase that refers to the same prohibited device. Glock does not manufacture or authorize any such component.