Advantages & Dangers of Carry a DA/SA Handgun "Half Cocked"

Published on October 22, 2019
Duration: 10:27

Carrying a DA/SA handgun in the 'half-cocked' position does not significantly reduce trigger pull weight, contrary to common belief. The half-cock notch is a passive safety to catch the hammer, not a carry mode. Carrying half-cocked on guns not designed for it, like most Berettas, can damage internal components like the sear. Always carry your firearm as the manufacturer intends.

Quick Summary

Carrying a DA/SA handgun half-cocked does not significantly reduce trigger pull weight; tests show it remains around 6-7 lbs. The half-cock notch is a safety catch, not a performance feature. Carrying half-cocked on guns not designed for it can damage the sear.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: Half-Cocked DA/SA Carry
  2. 01:20Trigger Pull Myth Testing
  3. 02:27CZ 75 Trigger Test
  4. 03:11Purpose of Half-Cock
  5. 04:28Beretta vs. CZ Mechanical Differences
  6. 05:31Dangers of Half-Cocked Carry
  7. 07:13Conclusion & Recommendations

Frequently Asked Questions

Does carrying a DA/SA handgun half-cocked reduce trigger pull weight?

No, testing on firearms like the Beretta 92G and CZ 75 shows that carrying in the half-cocked position does not significantly lighten the double-action trigger pull. The pull weight remains approximately 6-7 pounds, similar to the fully forward hammer position.

What is the actual purpose of the half-cock notch on a handgun hammer?

The half-cock notch is a passive safety mechanism designed to catch the hammer if it slips during cocking or is dropped. It acts as a secondary safety, preventing the hammer from falling fully forward and potentially causing an accidental discharge.

What are the dangers of carrying a DA/SA handgun half-cocked?

Carrying a DA/SA handgun half-cocked on models not designed for it (like most Berettas) can damage internal components, particularly the sear. If the hammer is forced forward by an impact, it can shear these parts, compromising the firearm's safety and function.

How should I carry my Beretta 92G or CZ 75?

For a Beretta 92G, carry with the hammer fully forward as intended by the manufacturer. For a CZ 75, the half-cocked position is the standard decocked carry position due to its design.

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