The primary difference between a single action revolver and a double action revolver lies in the operation of the firearm's trigger and hammer. The design and functionality of each type of revolver impact how they are fired and the overall shooting experience.
Single Action Revolver:
A single action revolver requires the shooter to manually cock the hammer before pulling the trigger to fire the weapon. When the hammer is cocked, the firearm's cylinder rotates, aligning the next chamber with the barrel. The trigger's sole function is to release the hammer, which in turn strikes the firing pin, igniting the cartridge and discharging the round.
This design means that the trigger's only action is to release the hammer, thus performing a single action. After firing, the shooter must manually cock the hammer again for the next shot. It's worth noting that the term "single action" refers specifically to the trigger's action, not the operation of the cylinder, which still rotates for each shot.
Historically, single action revolvers were prominent during the 19th century, such as the Colt Single Action Army (also known as the Colt Peacemaker), and were favored by cowboys, lawmen, and outlaws of the American West. Today, single action revolvers are often used in cowboy action shooting and as collectible firearms due to their historical significance.
Double Action Revolver:
In contrast, a double action revolver is capable of both cocking the hammer and firing the weapon with a single pull of the trigger. When the shooter pulls the trigger, it both cocks the hammer and rotates the cylinder, aligning the next chamber with the barrel. As the trigger continues its rearward travel, it ultimately releases the hammer to ignite the cartridge, discharging the weapon.
The "double action" term refers to the trigger's dual functions of cocking the hammer and releasing it to fire the revolver. However, it's important to note that most double action revolvers can also be manually cocked for a lighter and shorter trigger pull, effectively converting the firearm into a single action mode for firing.
Double action revolvers are known for their flexibility in firing options, as the shooter has the choice of either using a longer, heavier trigger pull for double action firing or manually cocking the hammer for a single action shot. This versatility makes double action revolvers popular for self-defense, law enforcement, and general shooting purposes.
In summary, the fundamental distinction between single action and double action revolvers lies in how the trigger interacts with the hammer. Single action revolvers require the hammer to be manually cocked before pulling the trigger, while double action revolvers are capable of both cocking the hammer and firing the weapon with a single action of the trigger. Understanding these operational differences is crucial for shooters selecting the right firearm for their intended use and preference in shooting style.
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