DA/SA Revolvers Don't Have Sears!?!..Here is How the DA/SA Sear Works! (Boring Technical Video)

Published on March 10, 2026
Duration: 6:57

This video, presented by TheYankeeMarshal, clarifies the function and location of the sear mechanism in Double-Action/Single-Action (DA/SA) revolvers, addressing common viewer confusion. It visually demonstrates how the hammer and trigger interact to cock and fire the weapon in single-action mode, emphasizing the simplicity of the design. The explanation is geared towards intermediate users familiar with basic firearm components.

Quick Summary

The sear in a DA/SA revolver is formed by the engagement surfaces of the hammer and trigger, specifically a notch on the hammer and a leg on the trigger. When cocked, the trigger locks into this notch, holding the hammer. Pulling the trigger disengages the sear, allowing the hammer to fire the gun.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Viewer Questions
  2. 00:25Revolver Passion & Sear Focus
  3. 00:48Clarifying Sear Location
  4. 01:29Debunking Sear Non-Existence Claims
  5. 01:55Visualizing Hammer & Trigger
  6. 02:09Mainspring's Role
  7. 02:37Identifying the Sear Mechanism
  8. 03:02Cocking for Single Action
  9. 03:28Hammer Cocked & Trigger Lock
  10. 04:04Single Action Firing Sequence
  11. 05:06Trigger Reset & Cycle Completion
  12. 05:30Simplicity of Revolver Sear

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the sear in a DA/SA revolver?

The sear in a DA/SA revolver is the engagement point between the hammer and the trigger. It's typically a notch on the hammer that a leg on the trigger engages with to hold the hammer in a cocked position for single-action firing.

How does the sear work in single-action mode?

When cocking the hammer, the trigger moves rearward with it. At full cock, the trigger moves forward slightly, and its leg locks into the hammer's sear notch. Pulling the trigger further disengages the sear, allowing the hammer to fall.

Can you find the sear easily on a revolver?

The sear isn't always a distinct, separate part. It's formed by the interacting surfaces of the hammer and trigger. Understanding their overlap and the specific notch on the hammer is key to locating and understanding the sear.

Why do some people think revolvers don't have sears?

This confusion often arises because the sear isn't a single, easily identifiable component like in some other firearm designs. Viewers might not find a separate 'sear' part after removing the side plate, leading them to believe it doesn't exist.

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