What Is a Striker Fired Pistol?

If you’ve ever looked into buying a pistol, you’ve probably come across the term “striker-fired.” But what exactly does that mean? Striker-fired pistols don’t have a traditional hammer. Instead, they use a spring-loaded "striker" inside the gun to fire the round. This design has become popular since it tends to make the gun simpler and quicker to use. Let’s break down what makes these pistols unique.


What Is a Striker-Fired Pistol?

 

man aiming gun at shooting target
Credit: Envato Elements/ guyswhoshoot

A striker-fired pistol uses a firing pin (called a striker) inside the gun to ignite the bullet, unlike traditional hammer-fired pistols that have a visible hammer to strike the bullet. But how exactly does it work?

When you pull the trigger, the striker, which is spring-loaded, moves forward and hits the primer of the round, causing it to fire. It's a pretty simple design, which is one of the reasons why so many people like them. These pistols are often referred to as having a "consistent trigger pull." That means the trigger feels the same every time you fire, which isn't always the case with hammer-fired guns.


Tips on How to Fire a Striker-Fired Pistol

 

hand holding gun upright
Credit: Envato Elements/ AydinovKamran

Firing a striker-fired pistol is pretty simple. Here are a few tips to help you out:


Focus on the Trigger Pull

One of the key features of a striker-fired pistol is its consistent trigger pull, but that doesn't mean you can just yank it back and expect perfect accuracy. The trick is to apply slow, steady pressure with the pad of your index finger for trigger releases. Rushing or jerking the trigger can throw off your aim. A slow pull helps the gun stay steady.


Find the Trigger Reset

You don’t need to release the trigger all the way after each shot. Every striker-fired pistol has something called a “trigger reset,” which is the point where the trigger is ready to fire again after you’ve shot. If you only release the trigger enough to reach the reset, you can fire quicker and with more control.


Grip Control Matters

A lot of people think a tight grip is always better, but that’s not necessarily true. Yes, you want to hold the gun firmly, but squeezing too tightly can make your shots go off target. Keep a firm yet comfortable grip, and make sure your support hand (if you’re using both hands) is doing some of the work too.


Practice Dry Firing

Try "dry firing." This means practicing pulling the trigger without any ammunition in the gun. This is a great way to get a feel for the first trigger pull and reset without the distraction of a loud bang. For the subsequent shot, focus on controlling the recoil and the technique you use. Before dry firing, be sure to always double-check that the gun is unloaded before trying this.


Pay Attention to Recoil Control

Unlike hammer-fired handguns or double-action triggers where you need to cock the hammer, striker-fired pistols tend to have a bit more "snap" to the recoil. A lot of people don’t expect that. To manage recoil, focus on locking your wrists and keep your arms slightly bent. Let your body absorb some of the shock rather than letting it all go to your hands.


How to Maintain a Striker-Fired Pistol

 

hand holding gun and aiming
Credit: Envato Elements/ Photology75

Here's how to maintain a striker fired pistol:


Regular Clean It After Use: Every time you fire your pistol, even if it's just a few rounds at the range, residue called "carbon buildup" collects in the barrel and other parts of the gun. This buildup can affect the accuracy and function of the gun over time. Make sure to clean your pistol after each use.

Focus on the Striker Channel: Since striker-fired pistols rely on the striker pin to fire, you need to keep this channel clean and free of debris. Use a small brush or a cotton swab to gently clean out the striker channel.

Don’t Over-Lubricate: Speaking of lubrication, it’s a common mistake to think that more oil equals better performance. In reality, over-lubricating your striker-fired pistol can lead to gunk buildup, especially in cold weather where oil can thicken. A thin, even coat of lubricant on the moving parts (like the slide and rails) is all you need. Avoid getting oil in the striker channel—this part should be kept as dry as possible.

Inspect the Springs: Over time, springs can weaken, which can affect the striker’s performance and the overall feel of the gun. It’s a good idea to check the tension on your recoil spring regularly and replace it if it feels too soft. This is something that a lot of people overlook, but it can make a huge difference in the long run.


Summary

Striker-fired handguns are popular since they're easy to use. Follow the tips above to learn how to maintain and fire them properly.

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