Pocket pistols with double action trigger is a kind of pistol that utilizes just one trigger mechanism to fire the gun in both single-action and double-action modes.
The trigger pull is short and light in single-action mode because the hammer is already cocked. In double-action mode, the trigger pull is long and heavy because the hammer must be cocked by the trigger pull before the gun can fire.
The Double Action Trigger Mechanism
One notable feature of pocket pistols is the double action trigger mechanism. Unlike single-action triggers, which require manually cocking the hammer before firing, double action triggers perform two actions with one motivation pull.
When it pulls the trigger, it cocks and releases the hammer, causing the pistol to fire. It eliminates the need for manually cocking the hammer before each shot, simplifying the firing process and allowing for quicker follow-up shots if necessary.
Advantages of Double Action Trigger
The advantage of pocket pistols with double action triggers. Firstly, it enhances user safety by providing a longer and heavier trigger pull, reducing the chances of accidental discharges.
This additional trigger resistance minimizes the risk of unintentional firing when a pocket carries the pistol or a holster.
Secondly, pocket pistols with double action triggers allow for a simpler and faster shooting process. Since the hammer is cocked automatically with each trigger pull, users can fire the pistol without manually preparing the firearm beforehand.
This feature is especially crucial in self-defense situations, where quick and decisive actions can make a significant difference.
Pocket Pistol Size and Concealability
One of the primary reasons people choose pocket pistols with double-action triggers is their compact size and ease of concealment.
It is the design of weaponry to be lightweight and small enough to fit comfortably in a pocket or a concealed holster.
The pocket pistols with double-action trigger mechanisms complement this by eliminating external hammer spurs or levers that could snag on clothing or impede the draw from a pocket.
This streamlined design allows for a smooth and snag-free firearm presentation when needed.
Pocket Pistol Calibers
Pocket pistols with double-action triggers are available in various calibers, ranging from .22 LR to .380 ACP and even 9mm. The choice of caliber depends on factors such as personal preference, intended use, and the shooter's ability to handle recoil.
Smaller calibers like .22 LR are commonly found in pocket pistols due to their reduced recoil and lightweight ammunition, making them easier to shoot accurately.
Top 15 Best Pocket Pistols with Double Action Trigger
Here is a list of the top 15 best pocket pistols with double-action triggers. If any pistol is missing, please mention it in the comment section below.
Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 380
The Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 380 is a compact .380 ACP pocket pistol with double action trigger. It features manual thumb safety and a built-in laser sight, enhancing accuracy and target acquisition.
The pistol's low recoil makes it easy to control, while the stainless steel slide and polymer frame ensure durability and reliability.
The M&P Bodyguard 380 is excellent for concealed carry and personal defense. Its compact size, lightweight design, and pocket pistol with double action trigger provide a reliable, easy-to-use self-defense option.
Ruger LCR
The Ruger LCR (Lightweight Compact Revolver) is a highly regarded pocket pistol renowned for its innovative design and exceptional features.
One of its standout characteristics is the double-action trigger mechanism. With a double-action trigger, the Ruger LCR allows the shooter to both cock and release the hammer by simply pulling the trigger, eliminating the need for manual hammer cocking.
This feature enhances the pistol's ease of use and provides a consistent and smooth trigger pull for every shot.
The Ruger LCR's compact size and lightweight construction make it an ideal choice for concealed carry and personal defense.
It offers excellent ergonomics, ensuring a comfortable grip and natural point ability. Despite its small dimensions, the LCR's robust build and high-quality materials provide durability and reliability.
Smith & Wesson Model 642
The Smith & Wesson Model 642 is a lightweight revolver chambered in .38 Special. It features pocket pistols with double action triggers and a snag-free enclosed hammer, making it ideal for pocket carry.
The revolver's compact size and aluminum alloy frame ensure easy concealment and reduced weight. The Model 642's pocket pistol with double action trigger provides a smooth and consistent pull, contributing to accurate shooting.
With its reliable performance and simplicity, the Model 642 is a trusted companion for personal protection. The Model 642's double-action trigger allows for quick and reliable follow-up shots, making it an excellent choice for self-defense purposes.
SIG Sauer P238
The SIG Sauer P238 is a compact .380 ACP pocket pistol known for its high-quality craftsmanship and double-action trigger.
It features a single-action operation with a crisp and light trigger pull, promoting precise shooting. The P238's all-metal frame and slide offer durability and a solid feel.
The pistol's compact size and low recoil make it easy to carry and shoot while delivering adequate stopping power.
The P238's double-action trigger allows for a consistent and smooth shooting experience, making it suitable for concealed carry and personal defense.
Smith & Wesson Model 638
The Smith & Wesson Model 638 is a pocket pistol with double action trigger lightweight revolver chambered in .38 Special. It features a double action trigger and a snag-free enclosed hammer, ensuring accessible pocket carry.
The revolver's aluminum alloy frame and stainless steel cylinder provide strength and durability while keeping the overall weight down.
The Model 638's double-action trigger offers a smooth and consistent pull, allowing for accurate and reliable shooting. It's compact size and lightweight design make it an excellent choice for concealed carry and self-defense.
Colt Mustang
The Colt Mustang is a compact .380 ACP pocket pistol with double action trigger. It features a lightweight aluminum frame and a stainless steel slide for durability. The Mustang's double-action trigger provides a smooth, consistent pull for accurate shooting.
The pistol's compact size and low recoil make it easy to handle and conceal. With its double-action trigger and reliable performance, the Colt Mustang offers a reliable and compact option for concealed carry and self-defense.
Glock 26
The Glock 26 is a subcompact 9mm pocket pistol with double action trigger. It features Glock's renowned Safe Action System, providing a consistent and reliable trigger pull.
The pistol's compact size, lightweight construction, and double-action trigger make it suitable for concealed carry.
The Glock 26 offers a high magazine capacity, allowing for more rounds without sacrificing portability. Its low recoil and ease of use make it an excellent choice for experienced shooters and those new to concealed carry.
Beretta Nano
The Beretta Nano is a slim, compact 9mm pocket pistol with double action trigger. It features a snag-free design with no external controls, ensuring a smooth draw from concealment.
The Nano's double-action trigger offers a consistent and predictable pull, promoting accurate shooting.
The pistol's low recoil and ergonomic grip design provide comfort and control during extended shooting sessions.
The Beretta Nano's compact size and reliable performance make it an ideal choice for concealed carry and personal defense.
Kahr PM9
The Kahr PM9 is a compact 9mm pocket pistol with double action trigger. Its sleek and lightweight design makes it easy to carry and conceal.
The PM9's pocket pistol with double action trigger provides a smooth, consistent pull for accurate shooting.
The pistol's low recoil and comfortable grip provide easy control and follow-up shots. The Kahr PM9's compact size, reliability, and ease of use make it a popular choice for concealed carry and self-defense.
Walther PPS M2
The Walther PPS M2 is a slim, ergonomic 9mm pocket pistol with double action trigger. It features a single-stack magazine design for a slim profile and easy concealment.
The PPS M2's double-action trigger offers a smooth and consistent pull, promoting accurate shooting.
The pistol's low recoil and comfortable grip enhance control and shooting comfort. The Walther PPS M2's reliable performance, excellent ergonomics, and compact design make it a top choice for concealed carry and personal defense.
Springfield Armory XD-S
The Springfield Armory XD-S is a compact and lightweight .45 ACP pocket pistol with double action trigger. It features a single-stack magazine for a slim profile and comfortable carry.
The XD-S's pocket pistol with double action trigger provides a smooth and consistent pull, contributing to accurate shooting.
The pistol's low recoil and aggressive grip texture ensure easy control and handling. The XD-S's compact size, reliability, and stopping power make it a preferred choice for those looking for a compact pocket pistol with double action trigger.
Ruger LC9s
The Ruger LC9s is a slim, lightweight 9mm pocket pistol with double action trigger. It features a striker-fired system, providing a smooth and consistent trigger pull.
The LC9s's low recoil and slim design make it easy to carry and conceal. The pistol's glass-filled nylon frame and blued alloy steel slide offer durability and reliability.
The Ruger LC9s's compact size, reliability, and user-friendly features make it a popular choice for concealed carry and personal protection.
Smith & Wesson Shield 9mm
The Smith & Wesson Shield 9mm is a slim, lightweight pocket pistol with double-action triggers. It features a single-stack magazine for a slim profile and easy concealment.
The Shield 9mm's double-action trigger offers a smooth and consistent pull for accurate shooting.
The pistol's low recoil and comfortable grip ensure easy control and handling. The Smith & Wesson Shield 9mm's compact size, reliability, and excellent performance make it a popular choice for concealed carry and self-defense.
SIG Sauer P320 Subcompact
The SIG Sauer P320 Subcompact is a versatile pocket pistol with double action trigger of various calibers, including 9mm, .40 S&W, and .357 SIG.
It features a double-action trigger with a consistent and smooth pull. The P320 Subcompact's modular design allows easy customization and interchangeable grip modules, providing a personalized fit.
The pistol's low recoil and comfortable grip contribute to easy control and accurate shooting. The SIG Sauer P320 Subcompact's reliability, versatility, and modular options make it a top choice for those seeking a compact pocket pistol with double action trigger.
CZ 2075 RAMI
The CZ 2075 RAMI is a compact, lightweight 9mm pocket pistol with double action triggers. It features a robust alloy frame and a double-stack magazine for increased capacity. The RAMI's double-action trigger provides a smooth, consistent pull for accurate shooting.
The pistol's low recoil and comfortable grip ensure easy control and handling. The CZ 2075 RAMI's compact size, reliability, and solid construction make it a preferred choice for reliable pocket pistols with a double-action trigger.
Features to Consider When Choosing a Pocket Pistol
When selecting pocket pistols with double-action triggers, there are a few things to consider. These include size, weight, ergonomics, ammunition capacity, ease of operation, and safety features.
Choosing a firearm that fits comfortably in your hand, is easy to operate, and offers reliable performance to ensure practical self-defense is crucial.
Enhanced Safety Features
One notable advantage of pocket pistols with double action triggers is their enhanced safety features. The double-action trigger requires a more extended and heavier pull than single-action triggers, reducing the likelihood of accidental discharges.
Its added resistance provides an extra layer of safety, mainly when the gun is removed and placed in a pocket or a concealed holster where unintended trigger pulls can occur.
Quick and Responsive Shooting
Pocket pistols with double action triggers offer a quicker and more responsive shooting experience. Unlike single-action triggers that require manually cocking the hammer, the double-action trigger automatically cocks the hammer with each trigger pull.
This feature enables shooters to fire the pistol without additional preparation, resulting in faster follow-up shots if necessary.
Pocket Pistol Maintenance
Any firearm, especially pocket pistols with double action triggers, must be appropriately maintained to ensure its dependability and lifetime.
Regular cleaning and lubrication are necessary to keep the gun in optimal working condition. Additionally, following the manufacturer's guidelines for inspection and maintenance intervals is highly recommended.
Taking proper care of your pocket pistol will contribute to its performance and reliability when it matters most.
Pocket pistols with double action trigger offers a range of benefits for concealed carry and personal protection. The enhanced safety features, quick shooting capability, improved concealability, versatile caliber options, compact size, and overall reliability make them attractive for individuals seeking reliable self-defense firearms.
Consider ergonomics, size, and caliber when selecting a pocket pistol, ensuring it aligns with your needs and preferences. Remember to prioritize safety, practice responsible firearm ownership, and comply with local laws and regulations.
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