Handguns

[FlyingClayDisk]

I think for reliability alone though, I'd rather have a single action over a semi-automatic or even a double action. The less moving parts and spring-loaded mechanisms, the less that can go wrong. It would really suck being in a dire situation and having your gun jam on you.

When you say 'single action', I'm assuming you are referring to a revolver given this is what you compared it to.  There are both single and double action revolvers, and there are both single and double action semi-autos, although a single action semi-auto is a bit confusing to some.  A single action revolver will not fire unless the hammer is manually pulled back for every shot, nor will the cylinder advance.  A double action revolver will fire with the hammer in the down position simply by pulling the trigger.  This action also advances the cylinder when the trigger is pulled.  An example of a single action semi-auto is the Colt 1911a1 style pistol (technically, it's a DA/SA action).  The 1911 will not fire with the hammer in the down position, it must be put into "battery" by either cycling the slide (which will eject a cartridge if one is in the chamber) or pulling back the hammer.  After the 1st shot is fired, the pistol is then in battery for a second shot only by pulling the trigger.  No hammer activation is required.  A double action semi-automatic works differently and will fire from the hammer down position, and then continue to fire subsequent shots.  There are several different types of double action semi-auto's; one requires a full trigger spring compression for every shot, and the other only requires a trigger spring compression for the first shot, and only the sear holds the trigger for subsequent shots.  Some are striker fired and some are DAO (Double Action Only) (no hammer).  There are some other variants, but these go beyond the scope of this reply.

It is true that a revolver is typically a more reliable pistol than a semi-auto, but there are negatives also.  Revolvers have less capacity and are heavier for the same caliber and cartridge size.  Revolvers also tend to have slightly higher felt recoil than semi-automatics.  I personally prefer revolvers, but my carry pistols are semi's.  I avidly shoot both styles.
 

Another thing that used to bug me about SA's is that constant depressed state and spring tension of clips that are kept loaded in case you need it in a hurry. It's probably a good idea to have an extra clip or two for periodic loading/unloading and probably increases the life of the spring mechanism to not be kept in a compressed and loaded state for long periods of time. An occasional drop or two of oil on the spring and moving gun parts as well.

The compressed spring thing is a myth.  Modern spring steel does not have memory.  You can leave a mag spring compressed for years and it will still have the same strength.  This has been debunked countless times over the years.  Just FYI.
 

Of course the SA's are a little faster(if they don't jam) when every second counts. When I first got my S & W(SA) .22 it would frequently misfire because the clip wasn't properly inserted all the way. You really needed to force that clip up in there with the meat of your palm to get that one last little click.

Again, your terminology might need a little help here.  If you are referring to SA semi's vs. DA semi's, then from "Condition 2" (magazine inserted, round chambered and hammer down (w/safety on)), then a DA semi is faster (always).  This because the hammer does not require cocking.  On the other hand, if you're referring to a DA/SA semi vs. a DA semi in 'Condition 0' (round chambered, safety off, hammer cocked) (or condition 1, safety on) then the speed between these two pistols is virtually identical.  Now, if you are referring to a revolver vs any semi, then the 1st shot in a revolver is generally always faster (with an experienced shooter), but subsequent follow up shots with a semi are faster. 

A note about "magazines" (they're not 'clips'...saying 'clip' when referring to a magazine is bad form).  A magazine should be inserted into a pistol aggressively and with a positive action.  Magazines should not be gently slid into the pistol and pushed until they click.  This is a recipe for a misfire and/or jam.  They should be inserted aggressively and then struck firmly with the heel of your hand.

Fun factoid...an experienced cowboy action shooter can draw and fire a single action revolver faster than most highly experienced shooters can draw and fire the same number of rounds (usually 6) from a semi-auto!  Some of these guys amaze me.

Hope this helps some.  Enjoy your range time!!    Shoot regularly!!

- Firearms instructor