Da/Sa guns and the various types: Hammer down!

Published on April 23, 2021
Duration: 13:24

This video provides an expert-level overview of Double-Action/Single-Action (DA/SA) handgun mechanisms, demonstrating various types including those with manual safeties and decockers. It explains the operational difference between the first DA trigger pull and subsequent SA pulls, and details safe carry methods for different DA/SA firearm designs like the CZ 75 variants, third-generation Smith & Wesson, and Bulgarian Makarov.

Quick Summary

Double-Action/Single-Action (DA/SA) handguns offer versatility. The first trigger pull is double-action (cocking and firing the hammer), while subsequent shots are single-action (only firing the hammer). Safely carrying these firearms involves methods like 'cocked and locked' with a manual safety or using a decocker to lower the hammer for a double-action first shot.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to DA/SA Handguns
  2. 00:35CZ 75: Double-Action/Single-Action Explained
  3. 00:45DA/SA First Shot vs. Consecutive Shots
  4. 00:50CZ 75 B: Safety Features and Carry Options
  5. 01:08Cocked and Locked Carry Method
  6. 01:32Half-Cocked Carry Method (Caution Advised)
  7. 01:51Live Fire Demonstration (CZ 75 B)
  8. 02:37CZ Variant with Decocker
  9. 02:48Decocker Operation and Carry Method
  10. 03:23Live Fire Demonstration (Decocker CZ)
  11. 03:55Third-Gen Smith & Wesson: Safety/Decocker Lever
  12. 04:11S&W Lever Function and Carry Options
  13. 04:42Comparison to Beretta 92
  14. 05:41Live Fire Demonstration (S&W 3rd Gen)
  15. 05:89Bulgarian Makarov: DA/SA Operation
  16. 06:03Makarov Safety/Decocker Lever Function
  17. 06:25Makarov Carry Methods and Ergonomics
  18. 06:70Live Fire Demonstration (Makarov)
  19. 07:05Instructor's Favorite: CZ 75 D PCR and Decocker Style
  20. 07:32Conclusion and Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between double-action and single-action on a handgun?

In a double-action/single-action (DA/SA) handgun, the first trigger pull cocks the hammer and then releases it to fire the round. Subsequent shots are single-action, meaning the hammer is already cocked by the slide's movement, resulting in a lighter, shorter trigger pull.

How can I safely carry a CZ 75 B pistol?

For a CZ 75 B, you can carry it 'cocked and locked' with a round chambered, the hammer cocked, and the manual safety engaged. Alternatively, you can chamber a round and thumb the hammer down to a half-cocked position, though this is less recommended. The first shot will always be double-action in these configurations.

What is the function of a decocker on a DA/SA handgun?

A decocker on a DA/SA handgun allows you to safely lower the hammer from a cocked position without firing the weapon. This is a common feature on many CZ variants and other DA/SA pistols, enabling carry with the hammer forward, making the first shot a double-action pull.

Are there different types of safety mechanisms on DA/SA handguns?

Yes, DA/SA handguns can feature manual safeties (often frame or slide-mounted) that must be disengaged before firing, or decockers that safely lower the hammer. Some models combine both functions on a single lever, while others rely solely on the long double-action trigger pull as a safety measure.

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