Hammer Lever Action vs. Striker Pump Action

Attribute	Hammer Lever Action	Striker Pump Action
Trigger Mechanism	Hammer	Striker
Action Type	Lever	Pump
Firearm Type	Rifle	Shotgun
Reload Method	Manual	Manual

Introduction

Shotguns are versatile firearms that are popular for hunting, sport shooting, and self-defense. Two common types of shotguns are the Hammer Lever Action and Striker Pump Action. Both have their own unique attributes that make them suitable for different purposes. In this article, we will compare the features of these two types of shotguns to help you make an informed decision when choosing the right firearm for your needs.

Hammer Lever Action

The Hammer Lever Action shotgun is a classic design that has been around for centuries. It features a lever that is used to cock the hammer and chamber a new round. This action is smooth and reliable, making it a favorite among many shooters. The hammer on this type of shotgun is external, meaning it is visible on the outside of the firearm.

One of the main advantages of the Hammer Lever Action shotgun is its simplicity. There are fewer moving parts compared to other types of shotguns, which means there is less chance of mechanical failure. This makes it a great choice for beginners or those who prefer a straightforward design.

Another benefit of the Hammer Lever Action shotgun is its quick follow-up shots. The lever action allows for rapid cycling of rounds, making it ideal for hunting or sport shooting situations where speed is crucial. Additionally, the external hammer provides a tactile and audible indication that the firearm is cocked and ready to fire.

However, one drawback of the Hammer Lever Action shotgun is that it can be slower to reload compared to other types of shotguns. Since the rounds are loaded one at a time through the ejection port, it may take longer to get back into action after firing all the rounds in the magazine. This can be a disadvantage in situations where quick reloads are necessary.

In terms of accuracy, the Hammer Lever Action shotgun is known for its precision. The lever action design allows for a smooth and consistent trigger pull, which can help improve accuracy when shooting at targets. This makes it a popular choice among competitive shooters who require pinpoint accuracy in their shots.

Striker Pump Action

The Striker Pump Action shotgun is another popular choice among shooters for its reliability and versatility. This type of shotgun features a pump mechanism that is used to chamber a new round and cock the firing pin. The pump action is smooth and easy to operate, making it a favorite among many shooters.

One of the main advantages of the Striker Pump Action shotgun is its fast reloading capabilities. The pump action allows for quick and efficient reloading of rounds, making it ideal for situations where rapid follow-up shots are necessary. This can be especially useful in self-defense scenarios where every second counts.

Another benefit of the Striker Pump Action shotgun is its durability. The pump action design is known for its ruggedness and ability to withstand harsh conditions. This makes it a great choice for outdoor activities such as hunting or shooting in inclement weather.

However, one drawback of the Striker Pump Action shotgun is its complexity. The pump action design has more moving parts compared to other types of shotguns, which can increase the risk of mechanical failure. This may require more maintenance and care to ensure the firearm functions properly over time.

In terms of versatility, the Striker Pump Action shotgun is known for its adaptability to different types of ammunition. This type of shotgun can typically shoot a wide range of loads, from light target loads to heavy hunting loads. This makes it a versatile choice for shooters who may use their firearm for various purposes.

Conclusion

Both the Hammer Lever Action and Striker Pump Action shotguns have their own unique attributes that make them suitable for different shooting scenarios. The Hammer Lever Action shotgun is known for its simplicity, quick follow-up shots, and accuracy, while the Striker Pump Action shotgun excels in fast reloading, durability, and versatility. Ultimately, the choice between these two types of shotguns will depend on your personal preferences and intended use. Consider factors such as ease of operation, reliability, and intended shooting activities when selecting the right firearm for your needs.