Striker-Fired or DA/SA?
Here’s What You Really Need to Know.
In a world full of trigger options, we’re breaking down how each system works
—and why we trust DA/SA for our own carry guns.
HOW IT WORKS
STRIKER-FIRED
Striker-fired pistols use a spring-loaded firing pin (called a striker) housed inside the slide. When you rack the slide, the striker is either partially or fully cocked. Pulling the trigger finishes cocking (in partially tensioned systems) or simply releases the striker (in fully tensioned systems), sending it forward to strike the primer. These systems are popular for their simplicity, consistent trigger pull, and compact design—but they rely heavily on internal safeties, since there’s often no manual safety or manual decocker as a backup.
HOW IT WORKS
DOUBLE ACTION SINGLE ACTION
DA/SA (Double Action/Single Action) pistols use two trigger modes. The first shot is double action, meaning the trigger pull both cocks and releases the hammer, which is typically heavier and longer. After the first shot, the slide cycles and cocks the hammer, switching the gun into single action mode—where the trigger only releases the hammer with a shorter, lighter pull for faster follow-up shots. This design offers a balance of safety and performance: a deliberate first pull, followed by fast, precise ones.
“I’ve seen trigger checks in real force-on-force.
Under stress, fingers wander. DA/SA gives people that last reminder before something goes wrong.”
Ernest Langdon — CEO, Founder
DA/SA Recommendations
At Langdon Tactical, we recommend DA/SA pistols like the Beretta 92 Elite LTT, PX4 Compact Carry, and HK P30 because they offer the ideal balance of performance, safety, and shootability. With our tuned trigger work, these pistols deliver smooth, consistent double-action pulls and crisp single-action breaks—making them both forgiving under stress and incredibly easy to shoot well. We believe in systems that prioritize control, confidence, and reliability in real-world conditions.
Striker Fired Recommendations
For striker-fired options, we recommend the HK VP9 series and the Springfield Hellcat Pro (LTT Edition). These pistols offer clean, consistent trigger pulls and compact profiles ideal for concealed carry or duty use. The VP9 stands out for its exceptional ergonomics and robust internal safeties—engineered to minimize mechanical failure points for the lifecycle of the firearm. The LTT Hellcat Pro brings our signature trigger refinement to a proven platform, offering a smoother break and better control in a carry-sized gun. If you want striker simplicity without sacrificing shootability or safety, these are solid choices.
Hooked & Want to Learn More?
We’ve been preaching the gospel of DA/SA for years—because control, confidence, and real-world safety matter. With a deliberate first shot and a smooth, consistent trigger pull after, DA/SA gives you options striker-fired guns just can’t.
But don’t just take our word for it—see what respected instructors, professionals, and industry experts have to say.