Are semi auto pistols really unreliable?

Question

I recently purchased a 38 revolver for protection. During a wave of armed robberies near my business, I went to the gun store and asked for a reliable piece that I could use in a pinch. I heard, as I always have, that you need a revolver, semi autos will jam up on you. Are they really that bad? Are there semis that I can count on like a revolver? I've had glock in mind, what should I ask to see next time I go back?

Answer 1

Semi autos are reliable. However, compared to a revolver, they do have more malfunctions, but a well maintained semi auto can be trusted.

The main difference is the way a malfunction is cleared. Semi autos malfunction more, but almost all are easily cleared by the user. A revolver malfunctions less, but will usually require tools to clear the problem.

The next biggest argument is capacity, but it would be unlikely for you to ever need more than 6 shots.

Answer 2

There is a trade off. A revolver is mechanically less complex than a semi auto, and therefore maintanence is less. The trade off is less shots (usually 5 or 6, versus a semi auto 10, 12, sometimes 15 shots!).

The semi-autos are more mechanically complex, need more maintanence, but you have more options for calibre and more shots.

I carry off duty and usually pick my 5 shot Smith and Wesson revolver 642. I also carry a speed loader in my pocket so I have ten shots total. I like the concealability and weight (easier to carry than a full size handgun) and I feel comfortable with the stopping power of .38 special +P 158 grain round.

Either won't do any good unless you practice often and are familiar with all laws and case law regarding use of firearms in self defense situations. Practice practice practice. Practice drawing from where you holster it, and practice reloading.

Answer 3

If you had to ask, there must be a reason. We have a veteran cop with a Glock and "VERY FEW" problems.

I ask you, would you prefer having six you could bet your life on or 15 that may jam on the first shot?

I know the auto lovers have "VERY FEW" problems, and I know my S&W wheel guns have fired "EVERY TIME" "THE FIRST TIME" "ZERO PROBLEMS". Call me old fashioned, I'll accept that but you have to ask yourself, "Are you feeling lucky" enough to stake your life on an auto. I'm not.

The auto loader has another problem, primarily aimed at occasional shooters. An auto is ready for the second shot (sometimes) whether the shooter is or not. That is to say, I have never double tapped a revolver. I frequently double tap an auto but I do it intentionally. The novice can and does double an auto accidentally on occasion.

I'll be 60 in a few weeks. I bought my first handgun when I was 12. I am retired military and a Vietnam Vet. I am an avid shooter, a non-practicing gunsmith and a practicing reloader. I have owned countless different firearms in my life including an assortment of auto loaders. And guess what, I shoot and carry a wheel gun. It is simply a matter of trust. If you trust one with "VERY FEW PROBLEMS” not to have one when it is life or death; buy the auto. Lots more rounds.

I just don't trust them to work when the chips are down.

Answer 4

Depending on the make and model SA are very reliable. I own two Springfield Armory XDs with very few jams. I would stay away from Smith and Wesson semi-autos and Hi-Points.
Rugers, Sigs, Walther, Beretta, Taurus, Glocks are all reliable handguns.

Thunderthighs - With all due respect; You should not teach what you do not know. Revolvers and Semi-Autos are two different style of handguns.

Answer 5

well revolvers are reliable and usually more powerful and accurate. because they have simple mechanics that dont create problems and are more powerful unlike semi autos because semi autos use both the force of the bullet to go forward and back. the only bad problems are revolvers are louder and hold less ammo. but if you do get a semi auto pistol it has more possibility to jam. but what you can do to minimize the problem is clean the gun after you use it. the good side of pistols is they have more ammo and are not as loud. so it all depends on your choice but for protection i would think a revolver is better to use but always have extra ammo on hand

Answer 6

Revolvers are kind of the Polaroid of handguns...just aim and shoot, not a bunch of things to twiddle with. If you can't take the guy down with a full revolver, you irked the wrong guy anyway.

I carry a Glock 33, however (small frame, concealable, chambered for 357 SIG) and consider it very reliable.

Answer 7

Both are reliable. It's all preference. Yes, a semi-auto has the potential to malfunction, but if it does, proper training will show you how to easily/quickly clear the problem and continue firing.

Biggest difference will be capacity. But if it's for self defense, I doubt you will need high capacity. Try a shooting range and borrow some examples of each handgun. Try shooting them and see which one YOU like best. It's all up to the individual!

Answer 8

I have a glock, and have had very few malfunctions with it.

However, if you aren't going to train consistently on how to deal with a jam if it occurs, you are betting your life that nothing will go wrong.

A revolver can't malfunction the way a semiauto can, and a 38 or 357 will have plenty of punch for self defense.

Answer 9

The hand gun I love is the semi-auto 45 (military style). It has more stopping power that a 38 pistol or even a 30 cal rifle. Distance shooting is not one of it's bright points but for in the house protection I prefer it or a 12 gage shotgun. (riot gun)

Answer 10

not too bad if kept clean, but nothing beats the reliability of a revolver