The hosts film at Take Aim and Training Range in South Carolina and outline a head-to-head comparison of hammer-fired pistols. They previously did similar videos on striker-fired, micro-compact, and compact handguns, and now focus on metal-framed, hammer-fired designs. Each shooter will fire every pistol, score it privately, then compare results. The rating system is one to ten, matching their earlier striker-fired series, and they plan to compile all scores into a chart at the end. The goal is to see which hammer-fired models stand out for ergonomics, shootability, and overall performance without favoring any single brand or era.
The lineup begins with the classic 1911, described as an original design that has influenced countless later pistols and inspired the 2011 double-stack platforms. One host scores it 6.5, noting that while it is reliable and repeatable, the ergonomics are not ideal and it is not a personal favorite to shoot. The other host gives it an 8, emphasizing its historical role, widespread copying, and enduring presence. Capacity is a drawback at seven or eight rounds, and the design is acknowledged as old-school. This particular example is a newer-production 1911, which likely helps its feel and function compared to very early M1911A1 models.
Next is the FN High Power, identified as the newer FN-produced version rather than a traditional Browning-marked pistol. One host rates it a 9, praising how it feels in the hand, its repeatability, and how easy it is to keep on target. Recoil impulse is described as especially pleasant, and the checkering and upgrades on this modern iteration are highlighted. The other host scores it a 7, mainly due to a trigger feel that does not compare favorably to the 1911. There is also criticism that this updated High Power, released in the modern era, lacks an optics cut, which is expected on contemporary tactical-oriented pistols. Nostalgia and the model’s following still contribute positively to its score.
The discussion moves to the SIG P226, referred to as a classic service pistol with a history of use by naval special operations units and other experienced end users. The original-style P226 earns an 8 for its feel in the hand, soft recoil, and predictable behavior. It is described as doing everything it needs to do without surprises. The modernized P226 variant is then evaluated separately and receives an 8.5. The upgraded trigger is called out as excellent, more in line with a competition trigger than a pure combat setup. Optics-ready features and improved grips add to its appeal. One host notes that the older pattern is somewhat bulky around the decocker area, but both versions are regarded as solid, accurate shooters.
Among the other hammer-fired pistols on the table is the Beretta M9A4, presented as a modern evolution of the M9 with a strong service record. Some shooters feel it should have been more prominent in recent handgun selection programs, and it is recognized for its track record and updated features. The CZ75 is described as a 1975 design and a crowd favorite that had to be included. It is noted as one of the most copied metal, hammer-fired pistols after the 1911. The CZ Shadow, based on the CZ75, represents a competition-oriented variant that can still be carried if desired. It is characterized as a great shooting pistol with strong performance in practical use.
The HK P30 appears as a full-size hammer-fired option, with the hosts mentioning familiarity with the smaller P30SK. The FNX-45 is highlighted as one of the first offensive-style handguns to come optics-ready from the factory and to pair well with a suppressor. It is described as shooting well suppressed and having a dedicated following. The IMI Jericho, also known historically as the Baby Desert Eagle, is noted for its size and weight and for having its own cult following. The HK Mark 23 is introduced as a very large handgun, compared jokingly in size to other pistols. It is referenced as an offensive handgun concept that was considered for roles such as shipboarding, with the idea of a sidearm that could take on tasks usually reserved for carbines.
The table also includes a 2011-style pistol, described as a double-stack evolution of the 1911 concept that simply offers more rounds while retaining a similar operating system. A Makarov is mentioned as having a strong following and a reputation for being somewhat difficult to rack, with a reference to a television show that commented on this trait. The hosts acknowledge that carrying such pistols can require confidence but note the assurance they can provide when used effectively. Additional classic service-style pistols appear, including the Smith & Wesson 915, which is associated with past police agency use and evokes older action films. A Tangfolio Hexagon 9 is present, with its magazine marked “STD9,” and a Tokarev-pattern 1911-style pistol and a Spanish Star pistol are also on the table, representing mid-20th-century hammer-fired designs.
Before shooting, the hosts reiterate the plan: fire each hammer-fired pistol, rate it from one to ten, and then compare scores on camera. They reference previous striker-fired evaluations where the CZ P-10 and Smith & Wesson M&P 9 2.0 both earned perfect tens from one of the shooters. This sets a benchmark and raises the question of whether any hammer-fired models in the current lineup will reach that level. They emphasize factors such as ergonomics, trigger quality, recoil impulse, capacity, and modern features like optics cuts. After outlining the process and expectations, they prepare to start live-fire testing with the 1911 and work through the rest of the pistols in sequence.
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