gc70 says, “Based on this statement, EOD Guy in VA could equally prefer either SA or DAO, or both. The statement says nothing about the differences in SA and DAO and the rationale for chosing between those types of actions.”
As I clearly stated, my preference is primarily DAO, secondarily striker-fired. But since you asked… for concealed carry SAO e.g. most 1911s, is not a wise choice, in my view because you must a) take the extra unnecessary step of cocking the hammer, or b) carry the pistol “cocked and locked”. I tried the latter only to have the safety moved to the off position several times when inward-forward pressure was applied to a holster resulting in “cocked and unlocked”. I don’t know about you, but I’m not a fan of that mode.
gc70 says, “SA designs usually have manual safety devices to prevent accidental discharges.” Educate me… when I’m holding a 1911, safety off, and finger on the trigger, what device prevents the trigger from being pulled?
gc70 says, “DAO designs have heavier trigger pulls because they both cock (or partially cock) the action and release the sear.” That’s not always true… HK’s variant 1 has a pull of 4.5 lbs. identical to your SA. Para Ordnance’s LDA is even lighter.
gc70 also implied that DAO trigger pull weight is their only characteristic. Once again, that’s not always true. DAO triggers often have a longer trigger travel distance. A good DAO, however, like the HK LEM still allows for rapid follow-up shots by having a trigger reset of only 0.28”
gc70 says, “DAO designs substitute heavier trigger pull for manual safety devices…” and, “DAO's design rationale goes away and you are left with essentially the same dangers as a SA design, but without the offset of manual safety devices.” Again, not always true. The Para Carry’s LDA has a manual safety. Even light trigger pull systems like those on S&W’s M&P semi-autos have optional manual safeties.
I’m not trying to convert anyone to any particular trigger mechanism. I’m merely stating my personal preference, and accurately describing some of the options… which is the nice part of forums like THR… we can learn from each other.