Clips: Single, Double, and Triple Action. What did it mean?

Published on October 15, 2021
Duration: 7:41

This video clarifies the historical evolution and modern understanding of 'single action,' 'double action,' and 'triple action' firearm terminology, primarily focusing on revolvers. It explains that single action means the trigger performs only one function (releasing the hammer), while double action means the trigger performs two functions (cocking and releasing the hammer). The concept of 'triple action' is discussed as the ability to perform both, though its usage has largely been superseded by the combined understanding of single and double action capabilities.

Quick Summary

The modern understanding of single action revolvers means the trigger only releases the hammer, which must be manually cocked. Double action revolvers allow the trigger to both cock and release the hammer. Historically, 'triple action' described firearms capable of both, though this term is less common today.

Chapters

  1. 00:03Introduction: Clips Series
  2. 00:12Guest: Jonathan Ferguson & Language Evolution
  3. 00:38Colt Single Action Army: Modern Single Action
  4. 01:44Japanese Type 26: Modern Double Action Only
  5. 02:40Historical Revolver Designs: Colt 1851 Navy vs. Adams
  6. 03:35Early Terminology: 'One Action' vs. 'Two Action'
  7. 04:07John Henry Walsh: 'Single Action' Broadening
  8. 04:33Colt 1877/1878: Marketed as 'Double Action'
  9. 04:50Chambers Encyclopedia: Modern Definitions Emerge
  10. 05:18Notes of Military Interest: 'Triple Action' Nagan
  11. 05:58Webley Kaufman: Double and Single Action ('Triple Action')
  12. 06:37Hopkins & Allen: 'Third Action' Branding Attempt
  13. 06:57Conclusion: Modern Terminology Settles

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary difference between single action and double action revolvers?

In a single action revolver, the trigger performs only one function: releasing the hammer. The hammer must be manually cocked first. In a double action revolver, pulling the trigger performs two functions: it cocks the hammer and then releases it to fire the weapon.

How did the term 'triple action' historically relate to revolvers?

Historically, 'triple action' referred to firearms capable of performing both single-action (manual hammer cocking) and double-action (trigger cocking and firing) operations. This term was used to highlight the versatility of such firearms.

Has the meaning of 'single action' and 'double action' always been the same?

No, the modern understanding of 'single action' (trigger only releases hammer) and 'double action' (trigger cocks and releases hammer) has evolved. Early terminology was less standardized, with terms like 'one action' and 'two action' being used to describe different functional aspects of revolvers.

What is a Double Action Only (DAO) revolver?

A Double Action Only (DAO) revolver is designed to fire only by pulling the trigger, which cocks and releases the hammer. These revolvers typically lack a hammer spur, as manual cocking is not intended or possible.

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