[rogerjames]

I'm a noobie to handguns. Proud new owner of Ruger Sp101 .357. I completely understand the difference between single-action and double-action when it comes to wheel guns. I want to add pistol in near future, probably .45ACP, but I am not clear on difference between SA vs. DA when it comes to automatic pistol. Any clarification would be much appreciated. This is the best place on the web I have found for info. Some sites are bigger and more comprehensive, but this seems to be the most concise and comprehensive without all the uneeded bells and whistles. MUCH LOVE TO THE THR COMMUNITY!

[FTF]

Basically, the main difference is... Do you want that long trigger pull for each shot, the first shot, or no shot.

If it's Double Action Only (DAO), then each shot will generally require a long and heavy (think revolver) trigger pull for each shot. Some Double Action pistols are only double action for the first shot, then revert to single action for subsequent shots. Some pistols, especially the 1911 variants only utilize a Single Action (SA) trigger pull.

Double action basically, (I'm sure some of these rocket scientists can clarify it) require the hammer to be pulled back and THEN released, hence the heavy pull and more work. Single action, the hammer is already cocked, so it's less effort and less trigger pull to shoot.

Some of the proponents of SA only (1911) pistols (me, lol)... prefer them because they generally know the safety rules, are comfortable with firearms and prefer that the first and every shot be single action. It's my opinion that I am more accurate with a lighter, consistent trigger pull. The cocked hammer may be visually intimidating, but it's really no biggie. Some people prefer DA/SA pistols because they feel it's safer to have that long first shot... kind of like an extra safety.

Whatever you are comfortable with is what I would pick. Rent all the guns you can at the range, or borrow someone elses to shoot a few with to see what feels good. Personally I hate Glocks, some people love them.... I have no problem packing a 1911, some people think they are unreliable. It all boils down to personal preference, but the semantics are pretty easy to grasp. I'm sure more people will chime in... I also like revolvers... they generally are jam-proof :D