Double Action Only (DAO) triggers are a popular choice for firearms, offering a unique blend of safety and simplicity. Understanding their mechanics, advantages, and disadvantages is crucial for responsible gun ownership and informed purchasing decisions. This guide delves into the intricacies of DAO triggers, helping you determine if this mechanism is the right fit for your needs.
What is a Double Action Only Trigger?
Unlike single-action or double-action/single-action (DA/SA) systems, a DAO trigger requires a separate, heavier pull for every shot. There's no pre-cocking step; each trigger pull both cocks the hammer and releases it to fire the cartridge. This eliminates the possibility of accidental discharge from a cocked hammer, a key safety feature highly valued by many shooters.
How a DAO Trigger Works:
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Initial Pull: The first pull of the trigger is significantly heavier. This longer and more forceful pull simultaneously cocks the hammer and releases it, firing the round.
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Subsequent Shots: Every subsequent trigger pull follows the same process – a long, heavy pull that both cocks and releases the hammer, ensuring a consistent firing cycle.
Advantages of DAO Triggers:
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Enhanced Safety: The absence of a manually cocked hammer significantly reduces the risk of accidental discharge. This is a significant advantage for those prioritizing safety, particularly in concealed carry situations.
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Simplicity: The consistent trigger pull for every shot simplifies the shooting process, requiring less training and mental focus on hammer manipulation. This consistency can be particularly beneficial for less experienced shooters.
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Reduced Chance of Misfires: With no manual cocking involved, the risk of misfires caused by improper hammer manipulation is eliminated.
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Improved Reliability: In some designs, the DAO system can provide improved reliability, especially in harsh conditions, as there are fewer moving parts involved in the firing sequence compared to DA/SA systems.
Disadvantages of DAO Triggers:
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Heavier Trigger Pull: The heavier pull weight required for every shot can lead to reduced accuracy, especially for rapid-fire situations or less experienced shooters. This can also contribute to fatigue during extended shooting sessions.
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Longer Trigger Reset: The reset distance (the distance the trigger needs to travel back to its firing position) can be longer than in single-action or DA/SA systems. This can affect the speed of follow-up shots.
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Less Controllable Trigger Break: The heavier and longer trigger pull can make it more difficult to achieve a clean, crisp trigger break, which is crucial for accuracy.
DAO Triggers in Different Firearms:
DAO triggers are prevalent in a wide range of firearms, including:
- Handguns: Many concealed carry pistols utilize DAO triggers for their inherent safety features.
- Revolvers: Some revolvers feature DAO mechanisms, offering a similar level of safety and simplicity.
Choosing the Right Trigger Mechanism:
The choice between DAO and other trigger mechanisms is largely a matter of personal preference and intended use. Factors to consider include:
- Level of shooting experience: Beginners might find the consistent pull of a DAO trigger easier to manage.
- Intended use: For concealed carry, the enhanced safety of a DAO system is a significant benefit.
- Desired level of accuracy: Shooters prioritizing accuracy might find the heavier pull of a DAO trigger less desirable.
Choosing the right trigger mechanism requires careful consideration of your individual needs and shooting style. It is always recommended to handle and test-fire firearms with different trigger systems before making a purchase.
Conclusion:
Double Action Only triggers represent a viable option for many firearm users. Their inherent safety features and operational simplicity make them an attractive choice for self-defense and recreational shooting. However, the heavier trigger pull and longer reset should be carefully considered, especially if accuracy and rapid follow-up shots are priorities. Ultimately, the best trigger mechanism depends on the individual shooter’s needs and preferences.
