Searching for a glock switch for sale or a glock with switch might seem tempting when you discover these tiny devices can transform pistols into fully automatic weapons capable of firing up to 1,200 rounds per minute. I understand the curiosity, but we need to address some serious facts about these controversial firearm modifications.

Also known as auto sears, these glock auto sear devices have seen a shocking 570% increase in recovery by law enforcement between 2017 and 2021. In fact, possession of an unregistered machine gun can result in severe penalties—up to 10 years in prison and/or a $250,000 fine. Despite their widespread availability for as little as $20 online, it's important to understand that a glock with switch is illegal in most circumstances. Throughout this article, I'll explain what a switch for glock actually does, where these devices originate from, and specifically why pursuing a glock auto switch puts you at significant legal risk.

What is a Glock switch and why is it controversial?

The metal or plastic device known as a Glock switch or glock button fundamentally transforms how a pistol functions. Roughly the size of a coin, this small attachment connects to the rear of a Glock handgun and interferes with internal trigger components to enable continuous firing with a single trigger pull. This glock full auto switch essentially converts a semi-automatic to automatic weapon, drastically increasing its shooting speed.

Originally invented in 1987 by Jorge Leon, a Venezuelan who patented the Fire Selector System for Glock in 1998, these devices were initially intended for military and law enforcement use. Nonetheless, they've become increasingly accessible through illegal channels, with variations like the glock 19 switch and glock 19x switch becoming particularly popular.

A Glock switch works by disrupting the slide and trigger mechanism's internal timing. When installed, it overrides the disconnector by holding the trigger bar down, allowing the striker to continue firing as the slide reciprocates. This machine gun conversion device enables the weapon to fire at an alarming rate of 1,200 rounds per minute – approximately 20 rounds per second.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) has recorded a 570% increase in guns with machine gun conversion devices at crime scenes between 2017 and 2021. Furthermore, these modifications have been linked to numerous mass shootings across America, including incidents in Chicago, Philadelphia, Detroit, and several other cities.

What makes Glock switches particularly controversial is their lethality combined with accessibility. They transform an otherwise legal semi-automatic pistol into a fully automatic weapon that empties a 30-round magazine in approximately two seconds. Consequently, this rapid-fire capability makes the weapon difficult to control, leading to increased muzzle rise and challenging recoil management, endangering both the shooter and innocent bystanders. Maintaining a proper stance becomes crucial but extremely difficult with such modifications.

Federal law, specifically the National Firearms Act, clearly defines these devices as machine guns. Therefore, possessing, transferring, manufacturing, or importing them carries severe penalties – up to 10 years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine. Moreover, the Supreme Court confirmed in 2024 that auto sears remain classified as machine guns under federal law, making any glock switch legal claims entirely false.

For those seeking to understand the technical aspects and legal implications of these devices, I encourage you to learn more about firearm regulations through official ATF resources rather than attempting to acquire these illegal modifications.

Where are Glock switches being sourced from?

The underground market for Glock switches has exploded through two primary channels - international smuggling operations and domestic production using increasingly accessible technology.

China stands as the dominant international source of illegal Glock switches entering the United States. Federal investigations have repeatedly uncovered vast networks of Chinese manufacturers shipping these devices directly to American buyers. At Chicago's O'Hare airport alone, customs officers seized more than 1,500 Glock switches from China and Hong Kong during a single fiscal year. These shipments typically arrive cleverly disguised, with sellers labeling packages as:

• Toys or necklaces

• Car parts or tools

• Multitool switches

• Screwdrivers

• Even fidget spinners or a glock switch keychain

Meanwhile, 3D printed technology has dramatically changed the domestic production landscape. A single person with basic equipment can now manufacture hundreds of switches for glocks daily, including models like the glock 40 switch and glock 22 switch. According to court records, one supplier told an undercover ATF agent "between the two 3D printers, he could produce 400 machine gun conversion devices in a day". Most 3D-printed switches take just 40 minutes to complete, allowing for rapid production of custom glock switch designs.

Once manufactured, these illegal devices find their way to buyers through various online channels. Social media platforms have become particularly problematic distribution points, with TikTok Shop even offering a 30% discount coupon on switches advertised as "Airsoft Auto Fidget Toys". The gun switch price typically ranges from $20 to $250, making them alarmingly affordable.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives reports that Glock switch recoveries increased by a staggering 570% between 2017 and 2021. More recent data shows law enforcement recovered 5,816 auto sears in 2023 alone, representing a 784% increase since 2019.

If you're interested in understanding more about firearm regulations and the legal implications of these devices, I encourage you to learn more through official ATF resources rather than pursuing these illegal modifications.