The double-action first shot isn’t an excuse, it’s a training issue

[TheHound]

I hear people say DA/SA guns are “safer” because of that heavier first pull. Maybe but if you can’t place that first shot under pressure, it’s a liability. Train it until it’s just as consistent as every shot that follows.

 

[Unshaven2897]

My .45 LC/ACP Ruger wheel guns are single action. The 7" Super Blackhawk Casual is double. It makes little difference of the trigger pull. The Casual is kind of difficult to not react in preparation. That's OK. I don't have to hit what I'm aiming at. The sight and/or the noise is sufficient.

 

[Tammy]

I totally agree with that. If your first double-action shot is always off, it’s not the gun, it just means you need more practice with that initial pull.

 

[Unshaven2897]

I have a picture I won't post of my wife shooting a Casual I bought for her. Same as mine but with the 5.5". It was a bear and big kitty side arm. 1st shots with it, she was kneeling, both hands but with the revolver way to close. She didn't knock any teeth out and it happened before I could yell to stop.

She emptied it double action, handed it back to me and said she would never shoot that gun again. 125# Army Vet. She is a small M1A1.

 

[Smasher]

That double-action trigger pull is just another thing to get used to not some safety net. Practice dry firing until you can’t tell the difference.

 

[Karate_kid]

My CZ 75 has that long initial stroke but it’s muscle memory now. If that pull trips you up, either put in the training or consider a different gun.

 

[BearBio]

DA revolvers usually have a threshold point where it will break. Find that point and get used to it! I personally think good Colts have the best but better (older?) S & W's aren't too bad.

My Ruger LCP 380 sucks! Need to get a better trigger and install hit (after I get some money and my hand gets healed!)

 

[Unshaven2897]

I am with you on this.... Both my wrists are trashed from abuse and injuries. Long, long ago as a Maintenance Machinist apprentice I was working on something with a Master and was hitting something with my fist. He simply and quietly said "One day your gonna be sorry you use your hands like that." I took note but hands are such handy things. I haven't shot the Casual in years - it's genuinely painful. I can not, not react in anticipation.

So there it sits loaded with the super duper wicked hot solid copper hollow points for the day when nothing else will suffice and the 45-70 is out of reach. I hope that day never comes for me or the target.

I hope you heal up like new.