All About Handgun Actions: Single & Double Action

This guide demonstrates the proper handling and dry-fire techniques for a snub nose revolver, as shown by an experienced presenter from Arm&Gun. It covers cylinder manipulation, single-action and double-action trigger pulls, and essential safety checks. The video emphasizes smooth, deliberate movements and clear visualization of components.

This video discusses the use of single-action revolvers for defensive purposes, contrasting it with double-action. The speaker argues that while single-action can offer precision, it introduces risks in high-stress defensive scenarios due to the need to cock the hammer. These risks include accidental discharge, potential snagging, and legal implications. The speaker also advises against recommending revolvers to new shooters due to their complexity compared to other firearm types.

This guide details the shooting technique for the Smith & Wesson 686 Plus revolver, emphasizing proper grip, trigger control, and safety awareness, particularly concerning the cylinder gap. The video highlights the manageable recoil of this larger-frame revolver compared to smaller models, making it a good option for intermediate shooters looking to improve their handgun skills.

This guide details techniques for first-time shooters of the Smith & Wesson 637 Revolver, focusing on grip, double-action (DA) and single-action (SA) trigger manipulation, and recoil management. It highlights common issues like 'revolver knuckle' and offers solutions for a more comfortable and accurate shooting experience. The advice is geared towards intermediate enthusiasts transitioning to revolvers.

This guide, drawing from an experienced instructor on GUNS and American Handgunner Magazines, details the critical aspects of a smooth trigger press. It emphasizes understanding the take-up, the "smooth wall" before sear release, and the "moment of truth" for accurate shooting. The technique applies to both double-action and single-action firearms, stressing the importance of a calm, deliberate final press and follow-through.

This guide details the unique 'Fast Action' mechanism of the Daewoo K5 Korean service pistol, as demonstrated by an experienced shooter. It covers single, double, and the distinctive triple action, along with practical range testing including reloading and firing. The instruction emphasizes safe handling and proficiency with advanced firearm features.

This guide, informed by Roy Huntington, Editor of American Handgunner Magazine, details the critical differences between buckshot and birdshot for home defense. It covers their physical characteristics, penetration capabilities through walls, and effectiveness at close range. The advice emphasizes choosing a load based on concerns about over-penetration while stressing the universal importance of training, target identification, and using a light for any home defense scenario.

This guide details the field stripping process for a 1911 pistol, presented by Roy Huntington, Publisher of American Handgunner. It covers essential safety checks, step-by-step disassembly, and reassembly, emphasizing techniques to prevent damage. An alternative 'cheat' method for faster disassembly is also demonstrated, along with advice on using specialized tools for tight components.

This video showcases an exceptionally rare find: a first-generation 1873 Colt Single Action Peacemaker, discovered via metal detecting in Arizona. The expert speaker details its museum-quality condition, dating it to 1875, and analyzes the authentic patina and wear, including specific gutta-percha grip details and muzzle wear from holster friction. The firearm's discovery context among homestead ruins adds to its historical narrative.

This guide, presented by Roy Huntington, Editor of American Handgunner Magazine, outlines an efficient '5-minute clean' for modern semi-automatic pistols like the Glock 26/27. It emphasizes that over-cleaning is unnecessary and can cause premature wear. The process focuses on targeted cleaning of critical areas like the barrel and slide rails, with minimal lubrication applied only to high-friction points. Proper function checks after reassembly are also highlighted.