I recently recieved my restricted firearms license and would like to buy one of the 9mm P Series pistols by Sturm Ruger. I am uncertain which one to get because I don't know the differences between a "manual safety", a "decocker" and "double- action only". Can anyone fill me in? Which ones are semi- auto?

Let's see if I can explain it.....double action only may or may not have a manual safety...probably not though. It means that starting with the hammer down, you have a long, probably heavy trigger pull which cocks and releases the hammer, firing the pistol. A decocker allows you to safely lower the hammer from the fully cocked position without actually firing the round in the chamber. A manual safety is just that, a safety, although it may additionally be a decocker as described above. Hope this helps.

Thanks alot for that! It all makes sense now. I had no idea there were such great differences.

Of all the handguns I've ever shot, none have disappointed me like a Ruger P series. A friend of mine had one and brought it out on a fishing trip. After we were done, I asked to shoot it. He handed the gun to me, I took the safety off and pulled the trigger. Nothing happened. I pulled again, still nothing. What's freakin going on?!?! I hadn't pulled the trigger back far enough!!! That thing must have a 1.5" trigger travel. Absolutely disgusting!!! The only Ruger product that I shun on a regular basis...

Artic Gun
Before you get the Ruger, take a look at the Glock, the SIG, the Berretta, the H&K, [and the Browning High Power, and the Kimber 9MM, if you are comfortable with cocked and locked.]

They may be more expensive, but well worth it.

PS you have a PM.

the Glock is the most tested and reliable 9mm their is , the glock 19 is also one of the most carried CCW handguns( the one I carry)

Well that is very surprising! I've read nothing but good things about the P series by Ruger, but I haven't tried or even held one. Guess you can't believe everything you read. Thanks for the warning! My mind is quickly changing about the pistol.

Arctic Gun try one on for size if you know what I mean. A great gun that will not fit well in your hand is not very usefull. Hold them, point them, see how they fit your hand. I have very thick hands and not all that large, and for me the ruger does not fit well. The 1911's fit well, Browning HP fit well, Glock 19 but not the 17. See what fits your hand well. All of the major makers put out good products. If it fits you will shoot it better, and it will point better for you. You will shoot better, and have more confidence in the gun. I also love the Sig's. Also, here in ND I cary a summer gun and a winter gun to compisate for winter chothing if that is what you are thinking.