Striker VS Hammer Fired - Roundtable Live EP7 ?

Striker vs hammer fired overview

The Classic Firearms crew opens a live roundtable focused on striker fired versus hammer fired pistols, with a shorter “bust your builds” segment planned for the end. Brandon, John, and Josh outline their preferences and how they actually use each system. One carries a striker fired pistol for concealed carry but prefers shooting a hammer fired pistol from an outside‑the‑waistband setup. The Sig P365 is mentioned as a primary concealed carry choice, while a CZ Shadow 2 serves as a favored hammer fired option. They acknowledge strong opinions on both sides and set the stage to dig into practical differences rather than declaring a simple winner.

Audience opinions and competition trends

As comments start rolling in, the hosts react to a surprising number of viewers favoring hammer fired pistols. Several chat messages highlight CZ pistols, especially the CZ Shadow 2, as go‑to competition guns. The crew notes that in many competition settings, hammer fired platforms like the Shadow 2 are common because of their triggers and shootability. Viewers also echo support for hammer fired setups in general, while others call for more recognition of striker fired pistols. One comment suggests a split approach: striker fired pistols for everyday carry or duty use, and hammer fired pistols for competition, which the hosts agree is a practical way to think about the roles.

Glock, CZ, Sig, HK and 2011 comparisons

The discussion shifts to specific models and brands. Glock pistols, including the Glock 45 and older generations, are described as reliable and somewhat plain, compared to Apple or a Toyota Tacoma: simple, dependable, and widely supported. Hammer fired classics like 1911 and 2011 pistols are praised for their triggers, with one 2011 described as one of the flattest shooting pistols the team has used once tuned for different 9mm grain weights. The gun features a three‑port, 3D‑printed compensator that keeps it soft shooting, and it is even preferred over the Staccato XC in this conversation. Viewers bring up Sig’s P226 Legion and HK hammer fired carry guns such as the P30L, which the hosts describe as smooth, accurate, and enjoyable to shoot.

Carry setups, comps, and P365 builds

Viewers and hosts compare carry choices and modifications. One host carries a striker fired Sig P365 for concealed carry while favoring a hammer fired CZ Shadow 2 for range and competition use, taking advantage of its double‑action/single‑action system and decocker for a heavier first pull in a carry context. A viewer mentions carrying a Sig P226 Legion and another talks about a P365 build with a Radian compensator. The crew notes that compensators can be excellent for range and performance pistols but expresses some hesitation about using comps on concealed carry guns, calling that setup a bold choice. They emphasize that preferences often split between practical carry configurations and more tuned, soft‑shooting hammer fired pistols for fun or competition.

Entry and mid-level pistol recommendations

When asked about good entry and mid‑level pistols, the hosts define entry level as under about $500 and mid‑level as roughly $500 to $1,000. For entry level, they suggest options like used law‑enforcement trade‑in Glocks and budget‑friendly striker fired pistols from Canik, such as SFX‑series models, noting that Canik offers some of the best out‑of‑the‑box triggers in that price range. For mid‑level, they highlight CZ’s P‑10 series, including the P‑10 F. The standard P‑10 F can often be found under $500, while the competition‑oriented P‑10 F variant sits closer to the $800 range and offers an excellent trigger. Glock models in the $600–$700 range are also framed as solid mid‑tier choices, with the understanding that many shooters will invest additional money into upgrades over time.

Optics talk and streaming notes

The conversation briefly turns to optics when a viewer asks about the new all‑steel EOTech versus the original model. One host says they would likely stick with the original EOTech or even choose an Aimpoint T2 instead, prioritizing long battery life, mentioning a preference for runtimes over 500 hours. A viewer notes that the new EOTech includes a shake‑awake style feature, which the hosts acknowledge but do not treat as a decisive factor. They also address the live streaming setup, explaining that YouTube is the primary platform and that they avoid running ads during the live show so viewers are not interrupted while interacting in real time. Ads are only added after the stream is posted as a standard video.

Truck carry, platforms, and calibers

A viewer mentions carrying a 1911 chambered in .45 ACP every day but keeping it in a truck. The hosts respond by asking how it is stored and whether a safe is used, signaling concerns about secure storage rather than debating the caliber or platform. Other comments compare striker fired and hammer fired pistols to smartphone ecosystems, with one viewer joking that Androids are for practical use and hammer fired pistols are for fun. The crew continues to reference popular platforms like CZ’s double‑action/single‑action pistols and various Glock models, reinforcing that many shooters separate their dedicated carry guns from the pistols they enjoy most for range time and recreational shooting.

5.7x28 vs 9mm in PCCs

Toward the end, a viewer asks about 5.7x28mm for pistol caliber carbines. The hosts acknowledge that 5.7x28 can be fun and mention platforms like the PS9 and CMMG offerings chambered in 5.7x28. However, they question whether 5.7x28 offers clear advantages over 9mm in a PCC for most users. They point out that 9mm remains cheaper to shoot and widely available, which makes it more practical for regular training and range use. At the same time, they note that 5.7x28 ammunition prices are gradually coming down as more manufacturers release firearms in that caliber, making it increasingly common for shooters who want something different from the standard 9mm PCC setup.