Striker or hammer, I don't care. The lack of an external safety doesn't concern me as long as I'M the one responsible for the pistol (other's, not so sure about). Glocks have a reputation for durability and reliability that almost rivals the AK. IDK, I personally just don't like the "feel" of the gun in my hand. I loath that little scissors safety on the trigger, it's not comfortable on my long, very thin fingers. You can call me an old-schooler, but give me a beefy, steel, heavy, simple, .45 any day! That's why I have a CZ 97B. It fills my big paws well and is a JOY to shoot.