No worries MM!
Don’t let a debate on mechanics deter you from a great firearm. Simply put, the 1911 is an single action design, time tested, trusted and proven by many. Many of the younger crowd (or simply new to firearms) will encounter Double Action Automatics, as those are becoming more common than Single Action Automatics, same with revolvers. So there are many out there that have a misconception regarding Automatics, that often revolves around DA/SA differences. Many instinctively believe that pulling the trigger should raise and ten drop the hammer. This however is only true of double actions. In a single action, the hammer is either cocked back via action of the slide, or by a thumb (auto/revolver). Compare an old cowboy's revolver to Dirty Harry's .44 magnum. The cowboy has to thumb the hammer each time prior to pulling the trigger. Harry just pulls the trigger, and that raises then drops tha hammer in a faster action. With Automatics, this function is more elusive, because the slide always cocks the hammer, giving an initial impression that the single action and double action autos are the same. This is only partially true, and he in lies the debate. A double action auto is designed (most) to be carried with the hammer down. Pulling the trigger will give the first shot a long springy pull that raises and then releases the hammer much like a revolver. Upon firing, the slide recoils back, ejecting the shell, and cocks the hammer back, all shots after will be short easy pulls that auto's are known for. The 1911, being single action is different. If you were to carry it hammer down, then you would need to thumb the hammer back cowboy style prior to firing the first shot. Of course all shots after will have the hammer automatically cocked by action of the slide. Because the DA and SA function the same after the first shot, there is often confusion for new shooters on what exactly the difference is, or how to properly manage either when compared to the other.
- 1911 is a Single Action, and thus is designed to be loaded, chambered, and set on safety. This creates the "cocked and Locked" Condition-1 that we been debating. Condition-2, in other words, lowering the hammer manually, is not inherit in the design, and should be considered as an after thought that the design is simply capable of. Condition-2 in a 1911 can be dangerous in older models (pre series 80) that do not have a firing pin block. The half cocked position is a hold over from the old revolver days, that was re-utilized as a safety catch in the event the hammers full cocked notch were to fatigue and fail, thus dropping the hammer. Without the half cocked notch (and now a pin block helps too) the 1911 would have unleashed a burst of full auto fire if the full notch broke and gave way at some random point. Some modern 1911's have the half cocked notched deeper and can act as an actual locking point, much like the old revolvers. Most do not, and can be pulled off the half notch by pulling the trigger, and click, drops the hammer. I advise a notched hammer if you intend to use condition-2 (hammer down). Condition-2 in a 1911 is not the orthodox method, many are afraid of it, don’t understand it, and will preach against it with zeal. There is however a legitimate, and real need to understand, know how and why, when and where, you would lower the hammer of any weapon while a live round is under the firing pin. The 1911 is no exception.
- My final advice, "Hammer down" Condition-2 for a 1911 is something that needs to be carefully understood, both mechanically as well as tactically (even socially) and is really not a position a novice should consider. A novice carrier should consider Condition-3 (loaded magazine and empty chamber) and practice "Israeli" draw and rack technique, or Chamber a round to Condition-1 cocked and locked when he gets a little better at weapons handling and awareness. Remember, all firearms are potentially dangerous, can break and fail, can be used wrong..... or can save your life, and the lives of the ones you love. Simply put - it is a machine made with metal actuators, springs and levers that’s propels a projectile via combustion, much like your car.
- I hope this helps to give some food for thought. Do not be afraid to get a good 1911 and learn it for what it is.... a beautiful design that has survived from WW-I to today. It's reputation spans the world, and has more than earned a name for itself amongst the most famous of handguns ever built to date.
Be safe, and enjoy,
Bat
