Skip to the main content

First Time Owners

As a responsible firearm owner, you must read the USER MANUAL of your weapon thoroughly before you handle it. A product specific manual will be provided with each new Rock Island Armory weapon. 

This USER’S MANUAL is designed to assist you in learning the proper use and care of your handgun. After reading this manual, examine your handgun carefully and ensure that you understand all the features associated with it. This includes knowing it’s basic parts, how the safety features operate, how to open and close the action, and how to safely load and unload ammunition. Remember that improper use and handling of this handgun is dangerous, may void the warranty, and could cause severe injury or death.

Rock Island Armory weapons are as well made as modern technology allows and will give you a lifetime of reliable service, security, and pride of ownership. Use it properly and take good care of it, as per the instructions given in this USER’S MANUAL and do not hesitate to ask pertinent questions from the manufacturer or from competent gunsmiths.

The USER’S MANUAL that comes with your weapon should always be kept available for reference and should accompany the firearm if transferred to another party.

Single Action vs. Double Action: What the Terms Actually Mean

// Revolvers, 1911 Pistols, Guide

Single Action vs. Double Action: What the Terms Actually Mean

RIA_HammerTypes_AugBlog

Let’s break down firearm trigger actions.

Single action only (SAO) requires cocking the hammer before the trigger works. Double action/single action (DA/SA) has a long first pull that cocks the hammer, then lighter pulls after. Double action only (DAO) has no manual cocking; every pull is the same weight.

These terms describe hammer-fired guns specifically, a separate question from striker-fired vs. hammer-fired. Here's what each one means, with real examples from the Rock Island Armory and RIA-USA lineups.

Read Our Blog
Striker-Fired vs. Hammer-Fired: Which Pistol is Best

// Revolvers, 1911 Pistols, Guide

Striker-Fired vs. Hammer-Fired: Which Pistol is Best

RIAUSA_StrikerHammer_AugBlog

Ask ten shooters whether they prefer a striker-fired pistol or a hammer-fired pistol, and you will get ten confident answers.

What’s actually the difference between the two firing types?

A striker-fired pistol uses an internal, spring-loaded striker to hit the primer of ammunition. A hammer-fired pistol uses a pivoting hammer that falls onto the firing pin, igniting the primer. The practical difference shows up in trigger feel, how ready the gun is to break the first shot, and firearm maintenance needs.

This choice is one of the first forks in the road when choosing a handgun, right up there with caliber and size. There is no universal winner in the striker-fired vs. hammer-fired debate, only the choice that fits how you shoot. Learn more with John McClain from Team Armscor.

Read Our Blog
45 ACP vs. 9mm: Which Caliber Is Right for You?

// Ammunition

45 ACP vs. 9mm: Which Caliber Is Right for You?

RIAUSA_9mm45acp_JuneBlog

You may be here looking for a direct answer to which is better. Here is the truth about the .45 ACP vs. 9mm firearm debate.

There is no one winner. There never has been, but there may be a right choice in ammo for your specific needs and situation. Team Armscor's John McClain knows both calibers well enough to help you deduce which caliber is right for you. So let's compare .45 ACP and 9mm ammo.

Read Our Blog