Single action vs. double action differences

[RackedShotty]

kennymo you're right that's a good approach, I should just start by learning as much as possible about the gun I want. I am interested in owning a 1911 .45 so hence my original concern but yeah safety first and there should be no problems. I like the idea that before joining most clubs there's a 3 month period of observation with the range master (or so I was explained).. I wouldn't feel safe out there on my own at first anyways.

lone-wolf that cleared it up a bit more, I had forgotten about DAO mode where the slider doesn't rack the next one for you.
I was reading some on Wikipedia that with some single actions, leaving it uncocked is actually the worst thing but it didn't' say why. Still grasping here but I think its cuz that allows pin/primer contact (on older models not law enforcement Glocks) so a halfcock was actually a recommended carry mode in WW2 or something. So much to learn. But then as Kane says unless fully cocked there shouldnt be enough power.

Kane I think what I heard at the course was (I think!) as I mentioned above the older single actions uncocked and chambered would have essentially a firing pin resting against the primer cap and this was prone to going off from shock but he was probably talking about the old old days or something. I guess most modern versions would be 'drop safe' for sure so I should stop worrying!

BrotherRockEye good to know thanks. Ill try to refer to shot guns as shot guns from now on

[Kane63]

Kane I think what I heard at the course was (I think!) as I mentioned above the older single actions uncocked and chambered would have essentially a firing pin resting against the primer cap and this was prone to going off from shock but he was probably talking about the old old days or something. I guess most modern versions would be 'drop safe' for sure so I should stop worrying!

That's like authentic cowboy era revolver stuff. Even though it was an actual issue, they just started carrying with one empty chamber and the hammer would rest there. Voila, no discharge.

Police cruisers with 870s would also carry them without a round in the chamber because if they got into a collision the gun, with a live round in the chamber, could fire. Not a drop safe firearm.

Not all modern firearms are drop safe either, even if it is I would do my best to not drop the firearm.