1911 vs other .45s?

[runway1]

Please describe the general differences. Is it simply ergo nuances or are there mechanical/tactical difference? Thanks!

[cineski]

There's definitely a tactical difference. The 1911 has a thumb safety which must be disengaged prior to firing and then reengaged after. Choose a trigger platform above all else when choosing a gun. Ergonomics, looks, caliber are all secondary to trigger platform.

[runway1]

There's definitely a tactical difference. The 1911 has a thumb safety which must be disengaged prior to firing and then reengaged after. Choose a trigger platform above all else when choosing a gun. Ergonomics, looks, caliber are all secondary to trigger platform.

Can you describe some trigger platforms for me to clarify? I'm a newbie. I'll be growing on a .22 for a while but just curious as to what that statement means. Thanks.

[kdm]

Think cineski is referring to single action, double action, double action only, etc. These terms describe how the firing system functions. Single action has a short, light trigger pull. Double action only has a long, heavier pull. Each system has its advantages/disadvantages. Research the types, and determine which would be best for you.

[Can't buy anything here]

Other trigger platforms would be double action only (DOA), the striker fired Glock style or double action/single action (DA/SA)...if you only plan to target shoot, the safety engagement of a 1911 won't be much of an issue...but the the crisp, light single action trigger of most higher end 1911s will be a joy to shoot...a great platform for the DA/SA gun would be the Sig 220...if you plan on keeping a gun by your bedside, then this type might be a better choice since you only need to pul the trigger to fire...it also is a pretty decent shooter for a DA/SA gin...

[runway1]

I understand the DA/SA. Are there any in reverse - SA/DA? I saw the Beretta M9 described as a "single action/double action". Just a typ-o?

[gotshotgun?]

Reverse could be a revolver if you cock the hammer on the first shot but not the rest.

[kdm]

Yep...like gotshotgun said. SA/DA, as on an M9, is the best of both worlds. Load gun and rack the slide, ready to shoot with the hammer cocked = single action. The trigger performs the "single action" of releasing the hammer. Next...with the chamber loaded, activate the decocker to drop the hammer. You can now fire the pistol double action...the trigger performs the "double action" of both cocking and releasing the hammer.

[runway1]

What are the advantages of a DA? I would think a combat weapon would be more suited for SA.

[kdm]

Here's a good write-up:

http://www.hipowersandhandguns.com/Single-Action%20Vs.%20Double-Action%20Automatics.htm

[FuzzyBrows]

the only thing i can think of that can count as a +1 for DA vs SA is in rare occasion where the firing pin doesnt fully hit the primer sending the round, you can pull the trigger one more time to try to ignite the round where as if theres a failure in the system in a single action, u pretty much have to tap rack shoot. if its dud than tap rack applies for both systems. its just pulling the trigger a 2nd time is faster than tap rack.

another thing about DA vs SA is the mode which you carry it in. SA if you want to carry loaded, one in the chamber is that it has to be cock and locked and saftey on. because of the light trigger and hammer pulled back, there could be an increase chance of accidental discharge due to various reasons/mistakes. DA enables the carrier to have one in the chamber with the hammer down (some models have a de-cocker to safely drop the hammer) safety on and because of the slightly heavier trigger pull the chances of accidental discharge while carrying loaded is reduced.

[runway1]

Lots of good info - thanks.

Back to the original 1911 question; Is that the essential difference in a 1911 vs. other .45s?...I.e....thumb safety which must be disengaged prior to firing and then reengaged after

[ilkhan]

Action differences are really the only thing you can describe in general terms between handguns. Its also a defining feature in how the gun is designed. Its kind've hard to describe, in broad terms, differences in handguns outside of the trigger. You can't describe grip feel in general terms, its small differences that determine if a gun feels good to you. Same for aesthetics. Mechanical complexity and weight/balance are also hard to describe. There are other designs that are great for large numbers of people, the 1911 design is fairly universal.

For example, try to describe the differences between a P220 SAO and a 1911. They are both SAO single stack .45ACP handguns. The feel of each is distinct, but hard to describe.

[redcliff]

Many of us who prefer to shoot SA pistols, especially 1911's, do NOT consider having a thumb safety a disadvantage, but rather an advantage. Properly utilized you have the benefit of very good carry safety as well as the benefit of the best possible trigger pull.

[Target19]

1911's come in many calibers besides .45 acp.
1911's are of a certain design and many different companies produce them.
Too many things to consider when trying to inform you of what your question asks since it is a broad and vague question.