Infirmities? Auto vs. Revolver

[Shawn Dodson]

It depends.

A double action revolver usually has a longer and heavier trigger pull than an auto pistol, and can it be difficult for some people to operate.

Whereas, the slide of an auto pistol can be a problem for some people to retract. However, this can be solved by using the "push/pull" technique to work the slide. Push forward with the firing hand while simultaneously pulling rearward on the slide with the support hand.

 

[Riomouse911]

My 85 year old Dad relies on his Colt Huntsman as a HD pistol. Obviously he would prefer a more substantial caliber in a life or death scenario, but his ability to grasp/rack a centerfire slide or pull through a DA trigger stroke isn’t very dependable anymore.

He is still very good with the old Colt, so I think it’s better for him to have something that shoots rather than relying on just a loud voice and a Calloway 9 iron to swing. (Shhh, don’t mention the golf club around Tiger! )

Stay safe.

 

[JohnKSa]

In my experience, hand strength issues in adults are often seen in combination with recoil sensitivity. So while revolvers seem like an obvious answer, the more abrupt felt recoil in a typical centerfire revolver can be an issue, even if the DA trigger isn't.

It's easier, in my experience, to find an autopistol with a slide that's easy to rack than it is to find a revolver with a light DA trigger and light recoil.

 

[OS/N]

I like both. SA in either - I find fewer bullets are needed that way to stay on target. I won't have a DAO in either design. Just me - to each his own.

What can I say. The SAA and 1911 are both my favorite handguns. Have others but prefer those.

With all that said, I use a DA/SA J frame snub for CC. Rock solid, safe, and nothing to give a second thought about if needed.

 

[newstart2k]

It seems obvious to me that a one-size-fits-all answer will not work, You have to pick and choose based on your particular condition.
I have osteoarthritis, tendon damage, and chemo-induced extremity neuropathy among other things. If you were to wake me up in the middle of the night my left hand is pretty much just good for club use.
So, for me personally, as a nightstand weapon I keep a loaded GP100 44 spl with a custom grip that fits and fills my right hand. I keep two loaded speed loaders there as well. I am able to operate all the necessary controls (read "trigger") and have practiced and can pull off one handed speed loader operation with the help of the left hand "club". I don't need a second hand to clear a FTF. I still carry my CZ 97 during the day after I've gotten the hands working well enough to rack the slide and my neuropathy down enough that I can feel the safety. Besides, it's heavy enough I can beat somebody to death if I have to.
All that is to say, you have to find what works for you and then practice with it in ALL the situations where you might have to execute it.