CCW Minute: Hammer-Fired Concealment Guns

Striker-fired concealed-carry guns have "ruled the roost" for years, but don't count out hammer-fired CCW pistols!

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posted on October 3, 2024

All handguns, whether they're semi-automatics, revolvers or single-shot guns, either use a hammer or a striker to set off the projectile. But what's the difference? The simplest way you can tell them apart is that if you can see a hammer at the end of the slide, it's a hammer-fire. Striker-fired guns never have a visible widget there. Some revolvers have a "concealed" hammer, but if it's a revolver, it's always a hammer-fire. (If you'd like more information about the difference, don't miss this great article from our friends at NRA Women!)

Does it make a difference when it comes to concealed carry? Well, the short answer is a "yes" with a "but," and the long answer is a "no" with an "and." In this great (and very brief) video from Shooting Illustrated's Kevin Creighton, you'll learn about CCW with a hammer-fired pistol, and why many people choose to carry them for personal protection. 

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