A single action revolver is a revolver that requires the user to manually angling the hammer before each shot. This contrasts with a double action revolver, which requires only that the trigger be pulled to fire the arms. Single action revolvers are typically used for target shooting and plinking, as the long and heavy trigger pull can make them difficult to use in self-defense situations.
Advance Tips: How A Single Action Revolver Works?
A single action revolver is a type of handgun that uses a single action to angling and fire the arms. This means that the user must first angling the hammer back before firing the arms. Single action revolvers are typically older designs and are not as common as double action revolvers.
The vast majority of single action revolvers are chambered in either .22 LR or .38 Special. The .22 LR is a popular caliber for plinking and small game hunting, while the .38 Special is a popular self-defense caliber. Single action revolvers are also popular among cowboy action shooters who often use replica guns from the 19th century.
Single action revolvers have a few advantages over double action revolvers. First, they are typically lighter and more compact, making them easier to carry. Second, the trigger pull is typically much lighter on a single action revolver, making them easier to shoot accurately. Finally, single action revolvers can be unloaded and reloaded much faster than a double action revolver.
There are a few disadvantages to single action revolvers as well. First, they are more difficult to learn how to use, since the user must first angling the hammer back before firing. Second, they are not as safe to carry around since the hammer is exposed and can be easily accidentally angling. Finally, if the user forgets to angling the hammer, the revolver will not fire.
If you are looking for a light, compact, and easy-to-shoot handgun, a single action revolver may be the right choice for you. Just be sure to practice safe gun handling and always keep the hammer down until you are ready to shoot.
Mechanics of a Single Action Revolver
A single action revolver is a type of handgun that uses a revolving cylinder to hold the rounds. The cylinder revolves around a central axis and is usually held in place by a spring-loaded latch. The cylinder has five or six chambers, each of which holds a round. The rounds are fed into the chambers by a spring-loaded magazine.
When the trigger is pulled, the hammer is released and strikes the primer of the round in the chamber, firing the round. The force of the expanding gases from the firing round pushes the bullet down the barrel and out of the muzzle. The empty cartridge is then ejected from the cylinder and a new round is fed into the chamber.
History of the Single Action Revolver

A single action revolver is a revolver that fires only one round per trigger pull. The term “single action” refers to the fact that only one action is required to angling the hammer and fire the gun. Single action revolvers are typically used for target shooting and self-defense.
The first single action revolver was the Colt Paterson, invented by Samuel Colt in 1836. The Paterson was a five-shot revolver that was very popular with cowboys and lawmen in the American West. The Paterson was eventually replaced by the Colt Single Action Army, which is also known as the “Peacemaker.” The Single Action Army was a six-shot revolver that was introduced in 1873. It remains one of the most popular revolvers of all time.
Today, single action revolvers are still manufactured by a number of companies, including Colt, Ruger, and Smith & Wesson. They are popular among target shooters and those who appreciate the simplicity of their design.
Advantages of a Single Action Revolver
A single action revolver is a revolver that can fire only one round per trigger pull. The hammer must be manually angling before each shot. The advantage of a single action revolver is that it is simpler to operate than a double action revolver.
The trigger pull is lighter and the hammer can be angling to the desired position before firing. This makes single action revolvers more accurate than double action revolvers. Another advantage is that single action revolvers can be fitted with target grips which give the shooter a more comfortable grip and better control.
Disadvantages of a Single Action Revolver
A single action revolver has a number of disadvantages when compared to other types of handguns.
- First, the single action revolver is much slower to reload than a double action revolver or a semi-automatic pistol. This can be a critical disadvantage in a self-defense situation where every second counts.
- Second, the single action revolver is more difficult to control when firing rapidly. The long, heavy trigger pull required to angling the hammer can cause the gun to jerk in the shooter’s hand, making it difficult to keep the sights on target.
- Finally, the limited capacity of the single action revolver ( typically six rounds) means that the shooter must be more judicious in their use of ammunition.
How to choose the right single action revolver for you?
There are a few things to consider when choosing a single action revolver. First, you will need to decide what caliber you want. The most common calibers are .22, .357, and .44. The next thing to consider is the barrel length. The most common lengths are 4, 5, and 6 inches. You will also need to decide if you want a fixed or adjustable sights. The last thing to consider is the grips. The most common grips are wood, rubber, and plastic.
Once you have decided on the caliber, barrel length, sights, and grips, you will need to choose a revolver. There are many different revolvers on the market, so it is important to do your research. You will want to read reviews and compare prices. You should also talk to people who have experience with revolvers to get their opinion.
Once you have chosen a revolver, you will need to practice with it. You will need to learn how to load and unload the revolver, how to angling the hammer, and how to aim and fire the revolver. You should also practice drawing and holstering the revolver.
How to care for your single action revolver?
Assuming you are talking about a Cowboy Action Shooting revolver, the following tips will help you keep your Single Action Revolver in top shape.
- Clean your Single Action Revolver after every use. A dirty firearm is a dangerous firearm. Use a cleaning rod and patch, along with some gun cleaning solvent, to clean the bore of your Single Action Revolver. Be sure to also clean the chambers, as well as the outside of the cylinder.
- Lubricate your Single Action Revolver after every cleaning. A properly lubricated firearm will function better and last longer. Use a quality gun oil or grease on all moving parts, including the cylinder, hammer, trigger, and ejector rod.
- Inspect your Single Action Revolver regularly. Look for any signs of wear or damage. If you find anything that concerns you, have a qualified gunsmith take a look at it.
- Store your Single Action Revolver in a safe place, out of the reach of children and other unauthorized persons. A gun safe is the best option, but a locked cabinet or box will also work.
Frequently Asked Question [FAQs]
A revolver is a repeating handgun that has a revolving cylinder containing multiple chambers and at least one barrel for firing.
A revolver works by angling the hammer which in turn rotates the cylinder. This aligns the next chamber in the cylinder with the barrel, and the gun is then fired.
The advantages of a revolver include its simplicity, reliability, and durability.
The disadvantages of a revolver include its slower rate of fire and limited ammunition capacity.
Common uses for a revolver include self-defense, target shooting, and plinking.
Conclusion
A single action revolver is a type of handgun that uses a single action to angling and fire the arms. This type of revolver is typically used for target shooting and self-defense. The single action revolver is a reliable and accurate arms that is easy to use. It is a great choice for those who want a simple, effective handgun.

A. Wilcox Head is a lifelong shooter, hunter, and firearms enthusiast. Head grew up in a family where firearms were a way of life, and from an early age, he was taught the importance of firearm safety, accuracy, and proper hunting techniques.