Glock 04 Optic Plate Screw Size: What You Need To Know

Glock's MOS (Modular Optic System) configuration simplifies the mounting of optical sights, which improve accuracy and enable faster target transition. Glock MOS adapter plates come with 3 units of 6mm Torx screws, two for installing the plate and one replacement screw. However, some users have reported issues with screw length and shearing, which can be dangerous and cause damage to the weapon. It is important to ensure proper screw length, torque, and thread engagement to prevent such issues.

Optic mounting on slide cutouts with threaded posts

It is important to select the appropriate screw size and type for the specific optic and slide cutout. Additionally, spacers may be required for certain optics to ensure a secure fit and improve rigidity. These spacers are designed to be slightly oversized and are placed in front of or behind the optic to add stability.

When mounting an optic, it is crucial to follow the manufacturer's instructions and ensure proper alignment and tightness of the screws. The process may vary depending on the specific optic and firearm being used.

In some cases, adapter plates may also be required to mount certain optics. These plates are designed to fit specific firearms and optics, allowing for a secure and stable connection.

Overall, optic mounting on slide cutouts with threaded posts requires careful selection of the appropriate screws, spacers, and adapter plates (if necessary) to ensure a secure and stable connection.

Screws for Trijicon RMRcc on slides with Trijicon/Zev threaded posts

When mounting a Trijicon RMRcc to slides with Trijicon/Zev threaded posts, you will need to use 5-40 x 1/4" Cap Head screws. These screws are sold individually and are made from black-oxide alloy steel.

It is important to note that when selecting screws for optic mounting, you need to ensure that you are using the correct size and type of screw for your specific setup. Using the wrong size or type of screw can result in damage to your firearm or optic.

In addition to the screw size, it is also important to consider the torque settings when mounting optics. The recommended torque setting for mounting optics is typically between 10 to 20 inch-pounds of torque. Over-tightening the screws can damage the optic or the firearm, while under-tightening can result in the optic becoming loose and affecting accuracy.

When mounting an optic, it is always recommended to follow the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines. This includes not only the screw size and torque settings but also the proper procedure for mounting the optic to the slide. Taking the time to do it right will ensure the safety and accuracy of your firearm.

Finally, it is worth mentioning that some optics come with their own specific mounting hardware, including screws that are designed to work with that particular optic. In such cases, it is generally recommended to use the provided hardware to ensure a proper fit and avoid any compatibility issues.

Cover plate for Vortex Venom/Viper, Burris FastFire 2/3, Sig Romeo 1

The Glock MOS (Modular Optic System) configuration simplifies the mounting of optical sights, improving accuracy and enabling faster target transition and quicker sight acquisition.

The screws for the Glock MOS Adapter Plate are 6 mm / 0.24 Inch (M3x6) Torx® screws. The set contains two screws for installing the plate and one replacement screw. All screws come with a drop of glue applied. Glock recommends using only these screws for fixing the adapter plates and periodically checking the tightness of cover plate or optic screws.

The correct screw size for the Cover Plate for Vortex Venom/Viper, Burris FastFire 2/3, and Sig Romeo 1 is 6-48 x 1/4" Cap Screw. These screws are sold individually and are typically made of black-oxide alloy steel.

It is important to note that Glock MOS pistols have specific slide width requirements for different optical sights. For slide widths of 25.5 mm / 1.00 in, the compatible optical sights include Docter, Meopta, Insight, Vortex, Burris, Trijicon, Holosun (except 509), and Ameriglo. For slide widths of 27.5 mm / 1.06 in and 28.5 mm / 1.12 in, the compatible optical sights include the same manufacturers, except for Vortex and Burris.

Correct screw length to avoid shearing

When it comes to the Glock 04 optic plate, choosing the correct screw length is crucial to avoid shearing. The correct screw length will ensure that the optic plate is securely attached to your Glock pistol, providing a stable platform for your optical sight.

Firstly, it's important to understand the different parts of a screw. The length of a screw is measured from the tip of the screw to the base of the head. The section at the tip of the screw is called the pilot, which cuts through the material. The unthreaded portion of the screw, located between the head and the start of the threads, is known as the shank.

To avoid shearing, the screw length should be appropriate for the material thickness and the specific application. For the Glock 04 optic plate, the correct screw length is 6 mm or 0.24 inches (M3x6). These screws are specifically designed for the Glock MOS Adapter Plate and are included with the plate. Using screws of a different length may result in insufficient thread engagement, increasing the risk of shearing.

It's important to note that the screw length should be chosen based on the thickness of the material being fastened. If the screw is too short, it may not provide enough grip and can lead to a weak connection. On the other hand, if the screw is too long, it may pierce through the other side, causing damage to the material.

Additionally, the type of material and the presence of pilot holes can impact the choice of screw length. For example, hardwoods like oak or walnut are prone to splitting, so drilling a pilot hole before driving the screw is recommended. Softwoods, such as pine or cedar, are less likely to split, so a pilot hole may not be necessary.

By selecting the correct screw length for your Glock 04 optic plate and considering the material thickness and application, you can effectively avoid shearing and ensure a secure and stable connection.

Torque and threadlocking adhesive

Threadlocking adhesives are an effective and inexpensive way to prevent threaded fastener failure. They are liquid resins that harden when exposed to metal ions in the absence of air. Threadlocking adhesives are applied to the threads of fasteners, after which they cure to a hard thermoset plastic that locks the threads together.

Threadlocking adhesives are highly reliable and improve torque control. They are available in different strengths for different applications. Low-strength threadlockers are used on screws up to a quarter-inch in diameter, such as adjustment and calibration screws. Medium-strength threadlockers are for fasteners up to three-quarters of an inch in diameter, such as machine tools and presses. High-strength threadlockers are best used on fasteners up to one inch in diameter found in permanent assembly applications such as heavy equipment and mounts.

When applying threadlocking adhesives, it is important to ensure that the adhesive wets the total length of the thread engagement area. For through-hole nut and bolt assemblies, the threadlocker should be applied only where the nut and bolt will meet when fully tightened. For blind-hole assemblies, the threadlocker should be applied to both the bolt and the mating threads.

Threadlocking adhesives are also available in different colours, which indicate their strength. Red is the highest strength, blue is medium strength, and purple is low strength.

For the Glock 04 optic plate, it is recommended to use a torque of 1.5 Nm / 13.3 lbf. inch and to apply another drop of threadlocking adhesive to the screws if they need to be screwed and unscrewed frequently.

Frequently asked questions