Little help for a newbie!

[Bigpops]

Ok...please don't shoot me (pardon the pun) but I am new to all of this and there are several terms I need help on.  I have run search's but no joy.  If you all would be so kind PLEASE help me with these questions;

1. What is a "single stack" and a "double stack", or what is the difference? (please don't just answer with "two")

2. In regards to Para USA....how does a LDA compare to a single action, or double action for that matter?

3. Again in regards to Para...why do most of their 1911's come in 45 only?

Ok, I said I was new so please don't beat me up to bad.

BP

[m25operator]

WELCOME

1a)  Single stack refers to a single column magazine were all the rounds are on top of each other vertically.

1b)  Double stack refers to a twin column magazine were the rounds are staggered on top of each other, to increase magazine capacity.

2)  I like the LIGHT DOUBLE ACTION, it's not as light as a well tuned single action, although one of my LDA'S trips at 2lbs, and it's much lighter than any other double action semi-auto I have tried, the hammer spring is pre-compressed, and so you don't have that additional weight to go against.

3)  Para makes 1911's in 9mm, .38 super, 40 S&W, and .45 acp.


 

[MikeBjerum]

Bigpops,

Welcome!!!  Don't be affraid to ask questions.  We all enjoy helping and informing, and sometimes we even learn because we're to embarassed. 

Your question on 1911's needs to be sent to every gun maker in the nation!  I have often wondered why they can't make stock guns in other calibers instead of making us buy more parts.  On the other hand, the hours spent customizing can save money by giving "gun time" without actually burning ammo.

[jaybet]

Hey Bigfella...maybe they make 1911's in .45 mostly because it's a really FUN round to shoot!

[gunman1911]

Hey Bigfella...maybe they make 1911's in .45 mostly because it's a really FUN round to shoot!

OOOOOH yes they are!  And I believe (If I'm wrong I will here about it) that when the Army first adopted this fine firearm back some 75 years ago that was the caliber  they chose because the .38 was not doing the job . and the .45 did.

[Sponsor]

[wisconsin]

BIGPOPS. You will find that if you hang around here long enough. You'll find a wealth of knowledge here on all subjects and  even when a subject has been brought up more than once,you'll still get an answer to your questions so don't be afraid to ask. There are good people here on the DRTV forum. Stick around it only gets better. WELCOME

[TexGun]

Bigpops:

Take it from another newbie, this is one of the best sites i've found.  I haven't had experience with Para and I was curious about LDA myself.

[Bigpops]

Thank you very much!  I sort of figured it had to do with the magazine but was not sure.  Now I know!

ALSO...thanks for the welcome.  I was expecting a lot of "do a search stupid" or other nice responses.  Again, thank you!

OK, now that I have a free "newbie pass", another question.  On the range....what are the advantages and disadvantages of a single action, double, or LDA?

Ohhh, one more.  I have been watching Todd Jarrett training videos, along with several others.  How in the world do they control muzzle jump the way they do?

Ok, I have used up my frequent newbie points....

BP

[jaybet]

a single action, double, or LDA?

That's actually a big question. A lot of it is preference. In general, double action has a harder trigger pull (more pounds to pull it) which can affect your aim. A revolver in DA could be a ten or twelve pound trigger pull where a 1911 (SA) is typically around 4 pounds. The harder you have to yank on the trigger the less accurate you will be.
LDA is just what it says, "Light Double Action". If you can get to a range where you can try a few different guns thats the BEST thing you can do, because it's all about what you feel comfortable with and what you feel safe in handling or carrying.

[DDMac]

Muzzle jump? Every shooter practices to overcome it. Some, like me, with less success than others. Number one suggestion is getting a good master hand grip. Firm, but sustainable. Your support hand, during recoil, adds weight against rise, so keep'em together. I often see shooters let go of the grip with the support hand during recoil, especially on the big boomers.. Stay tight on follow through.

Next is stance. As you watch the training videos, notice the weight distribution and shoulder roll adopted during firing, all designed to absorb the energy directed back at the shooter. Good shooters have developed muscle memory to counteract the recoil effect and speed the return to on target. That is where I run into problems.

Anticipating the recoil too much will affect your ability to maintain proper aim and follow through. Being too relaxed and pulling off an unanticipated shot will be more accurate, but won't allow your muscle memory to get involved untill full recoil takes effect and more time is required to return to the target. It is that magic blend of anticipation and surprise that makes a great shooter. New shooters always get the same advice. Remember, BRASS. Breath, Relax, Aim, Squeeze Slowly. The muscles will learn, speed will come, recoil becomes controllable. Fun breaks out.  Keep shooting.  Mac.