Striker VS Hammer Fired - Roundtable Live EP7

Striker-Fired vs Hammer-Fired Overview

The hosts open the live roundtable by setting the main topic: striker-fired versus hammer-fired pistols. Brandon, John, and Josh each share quick preferences, noting that there are strong options on both sides. Hammer-fired standouts mentioned include classic 1911 and 2011 platforms and the CZ Shadow 2. On the striker-fired side, Glock models like the Glock 45 are highlighted. One host mentions only carrying a striker-fired pistol for concealed carry, specifically a SIG P365, while preferring to shoot a hammer-fired pistol from an outside-the-waistband setup. The group frames the discussion around use case rather than declaring a universal winner.

Carry vs Competition Roles

As comments roll in, the hosts react to a surprising number of viewers favoring hammer-fired pistols. They point out that in many competition settings, pistols like the CZ Shadow 2 and other CZ hammer-fired models are common choices. A viewer suggestion that striker-fired pistols work well for everyday carry or duty, while hammer-fired pistols excel in competition, is called a practical split. The crew agrees this division makes sense: striker-fired for simpler, consistent triggers in carry roles, and hammer-fired for refined triggers and control in performance-focused shooting. They emphasize that both systems have valid roles depending on how the pistol is used.

Glock, CZ Shadow 2, and SIG P226 Legion

The conversation shifts to specific models and viewer opinions. Several comments praise CZ pistols, especially the CZ Shadow 2, for competition use. Glock pistols are described as reliable, customizable, and somewhat “boring,” with one host comparing Glock to a Toyota: dependable, over-engineered, and widely supported. A viewer mentions the SIG Legion P226, and the hosts agree it is an excellent hammer-fired pistol with very smooth shooting characteristics. They note that the Legion variants and the P226 Reserve have strong ergonomics and refined triggers. The group acknowledges that while some find Glock plain, its aftermarket support and consistent performance keep it a staple choice.

2011s, P211, and Compensated Pistols

The hosts discuss 2011-style pistols and a model referred to as the P211. One host explains that the P211 was the first 2011 platform they owned and that it initially required some tuning with different bullet weights to run reliably. Once sorted, it became one of the flattest shooting pistols they had used. They highlight its three-port, 3D-printed compensator, describing the gun as very soft shooting and even preferring it over an XC model. The group also touches on the broader topic of comps on pistols. One host notes a personal shift away from wanting compensators on concealed carry pistols, even though they still appreciate comps on range and performance builds.

Walther PDP, CZ P10F, and Budget Picks

A viewer asks about good entry-level and mid-level pistols, prompting a price-based breakdown. For entry-level options under roughly $500, the hosts recommend looking at used law-enforcement trade-ins and models from Canik, noting that Canik pistols often have excellent out-of-the-box triggers for the price. For mid-level pistols in the $500–$1,000 range, they mention the CZ P10F, pointing out that the standard P10F can be found under $500, while the competition version is around $800 and offers a notably good trigger. Glock pistols in the $600–$700 range are also suggested as solid mid-tier choices. A viewer comment about carrying a Walther PDP F-series is acknowledged, with the hosts calling that line a strong but often overlooked striker-fired option.

Optics Talk: EOTech and Aimpoint T2

The chat brings up optics, specifically asking whether to wait for a new all-steel EOTech or save money with the original version. One host responds that they would simply go with the original model and, in many cases, would choose an Aimpoint T2 instead. Battery life is a key factor in that recommendation; unless the new EOTech significantly improves runtime beyond roughly 500 hours, they do not see a compelling reason to switch. Another viewer notes that the new EOTech has a shake-awake style feature, which the hosts acknowledge as interesting but not necessarily decisive. The discussion underscores how durability and battery life often drive optic choices for practical use.

Carry Setups, Truck Guns, and Safety

A viewer mentions carrying a 1911 in .45 ACP every day but keeping it in a truck. The hosts immediately raise questions about how it is stored, asking whether it is secured in a safe and where in the vehicle it sits. Their concern centers on safe storage and access, especially if the vehicle is left unattended. Elsewhere in the discussion, a viewer talks about a SIG P365 build with a Radian compensator used for concealed carry. The hosts describe that as a bold choice, noting that while they appreciate comps on pistols, they have become more cautious about using them on carry guns. Throughout, they emphasize balancing performance upgrades with reliability and safety considerations in real-world carry setups.

5.7x28 vs 9mm in PCC Platforms

Toward the end of the segment, a viewer asks about 5.7x28 for pistol-caliber carbines. The hosts mention that platforms like the PS9 and certain CMMG models make good use of the 5.7x28 cartridge. However, they question whether 5.7x28 offers clear advantages over 9mm in current PCC applications. One host points out that 9mm remains cheaper to shoot and widely available, which makes it more practical for most users. They note that 5.7x28 prices are improving as more manufacturers release firearms chambered in that caliber, but cost and logistics still favor 9mm for many shooters. The takeaway is that 5.7x28 is interesting and capable, yet not necessarily a better overall choice than 9mm for typical PCC use.