Single-Action Revolvers Guide: Best Handguns for Hunting & Target Shooting

From the Bench: Exploring the enduring appeal and practical considerations of single-action revolvers

By Hootey Cline, Blue Coat Arms Company

Originally published June 12, 2019 | Updated July 2, 2025

After years of working on revolvers and talking with customers about their handgun choices, I've developed a deep appreciation for single-action revolvers. These firearms represent something uniquely American – a blend of history, craftsmanship, and practical design that continues to captivate shooters more than a century after their heyday.

As someone still learning about the intricacies of revolver mechanics, let me share what I've discovered about single-action pistols – their strengths, limitations, and why they remain relevant in today's firearms landscape.

Single-Action Revolver Cylinder Capacity: 6-shot vs High-Capacity

More Rounds Isn't Always Better

One of the first things I learned about revolvers is that more rounds doesn't always equal better performance. This might seem counter intuitive in our high-capacity world, but the mechanics tell a different story.

Here's what I've discovered about cylinder design:

The ratchet pads on the cylinder are what keep revolvers properly timed – they're critical for safe, accurate function. When manufacturers try to squeeze 7 or 8 shots into a cylinder designed for 6, something has to give.

What happens with high-capacity cylinders:

• Less material between chambers weakens the overall cylinder

• Thinner ratchet pads wear faster under stress

• Reduced structural integrity can affect timing over time

• Potential safety concerns with worn components

My observation: The traditional 6-shot cylinder represents an optimal balance between capacity and structural integrity that's stood the test of time.

America's Love Affair with Single-Action

Cultural and Historical Significance

America has always had a love affair with single-action revolvers, and it's easy to understand why:

Cultural influences:

• Western movies and television romanticized the single-action

• Historical significance in frontier development and law enforcement

• The "feel-good factor" of connecting with American heritage

• Craftsmanship appreciation for simpler, more elegant mechanisms

What I find interesting is how these revolvers represent a connection to our past while remaining relevant today. There's something satisfying about the deliberate nature of cocking the hammer and the crisp break of a well-tuned single-action trigger.

Why Single-Action Revolvers Are More Reliable Than Double-Action

Gunsmithing Perspective

From a gunsmithing standpoint, single-action revolvers are still among the most durable and reliable firearms available today. After working on countless handguns, I've developed tremendous respect for their mechanical simplicity.

Why they're so robust:

• Fewer moving parts than double-action revolvers

• Mechanically very stout construction

• Time-tested design with over a century of refinement

• Easier to maintain and repair when issues arise

What I've learned: The simplicity that some see as a limitation is actually a strength. Fewer parts mean fewer potential failure points and easier troubleshooting when problems do occur.

Performance Capabilities

Statistically, single-action revolvers are still the fastest-firing handguns in the world when operated by skilled shooters. This might surprise people focused on semi-automatic speed.

Speed shooting reality:

• Most speed-shooting records are held by single-action revolvers

• Skilled operators can achieve incredible rates of fire

• Natural pointing characteristics contribute to accuracy

• Consistent trigger pull aids in precision shooting

Natural Pointing and Accuracy

Ergonomic Advantages

Single-action revolvers are natural pointers – they seem to align instinctively with your target. This isn't just marketing; there's real ergonomic science behind it.

Why they point naturally:

• Grip angle developed through decades of use and refinement

• Balance point typically favors natural hand position

• Sight alignment works intuitively with most shooters

• Trigger reach suits a wide range of hand sizes

My experience: New shooters often find single-actions easier to shoot accurately than other handgun types, despite the manual cocking requirement.

Hunting Applications

Single-Action vs. Double-Action for Hunting

Single-action is better for handgun hunting than double-action, and here's why this matters:

Practical hunting considerations:

• You'll never truly utilize double-action in the field – hunting shots are deliberate

• Double-action costs more and is mechanically weaker due to complexity

• More moving parts mean more potential failure points

• Single-action triggers are typically superior for precision shooting

Field reality: In hunting situations, you're not dependent on rapid reloading. If you miss your shot at hunting distances, the game will be gone regardless of how fast you can reload.

Cartridge Performance

Single-action revolvers excel with powerful hunting cartridges:

• Stronger frames can handle higher pressures

• Longer barrels available for velocity optimization

• Superior accuracy for precise shot placement

• Reliable ignition in adverse conditions

Concealed Carry Considerations

When Single-Actions Work for CCW

We do NOT recommend single-action revolvers for concealed carry UNLESS you are highly proficient with the platform. This is important guidance I give to customers.

Why most people shouldn't carry single-actions:

• Manual cocking requirement slows deployment

• Limited capacity compared to modern alternatives

• Reload complexity under stress

• Training requirements are more demanding

The 90% rule: For 90% of people, if they can operate a semi-automatic, that's a better choice for concealed carry. Single-actions require dedicated training and practice to be effective defensive tools.

When They Might Work

Single-actions can work for concealed carry if:

• You're highly trained in their operation

• You practice regularly with defensive scenarios

• You understand the limitations and plan accordingly

• Your lifestyle allows for the extra training commitment

Modern Single-Action Options

Ruger's Contribution

Ruger makes fantastic revolvers that have modernized the single-action concept while maintaining its essential character.

What Ruger does well:

• Wide hammer and trigger for better control

• Adjustable sights for precision shooting

• Modern materials and manufacturing quality

• Safety improvements over historical designs

One limitation I've noticed: The stock hand-grips often aren't optimal for recoil control with powerful cartridges. This is easily addressed with aftermarket grips, but it's worth considering.

Modern Improvements

Today's single-actions benefit from:

• Better metallurgy than historical examples

• Improved manufacturing tolerances for consistency

• Modern sight options including fiber optic and night sights

• Enhanced safety features like transfer bar systems

Addressing Common Concerns

The Reloading Question

Many people complain about slow reloading with single-actions, but context matters:

Hunting perspective: If you miss at hunting distances, the target will be gone anyway – reload speed is irrelevant.

Self-defense reality: In a combat situation, I wouldn't recommend single-action anyway. And honestly, if you can't resolve the situation in 6 shots, you'd better be a fast runner.

Training consideration: The reload limitation forces you to make every shot count, which can actually improve your shooting discipline.

Capacity vs. Reliability Trade-off

Modern shooters often focus on capacity, but single-actions offer different advantages:

• Absolute reliability in adverse conditions

• Superior accuracy for precision shooting

• Mechanical simplicity reduces training complexity

• Psychological confidence in the platform's dependability

Modern Developments Since 2019

Manufacturing Improvements

Single-action revolvers have benefited from modern manufacturing:

• CNC machining for better tolerances and consistency

• Improved materials for enhanced durability

• Better quality control across all price ranges

• Enhanced finishes for corrosion resistance

Accessory Options

The aftermarket has expanded significantly:

• Custom grips for better ergonomics and recoil control

• Improved sights including red dot mounting options

• Holster options designed for modern carry needs

• Action work from skilled gunsmiths for enhanced performance

Training Resources

Educational resources have improved:

• Online training courses specific to single-action operation

• Competition circuits that showcase single-action capabilities

• YouTube channels dedicated to single-action techniques

• Books and articles on advanced single-action shooting

Choosing the Right Single-Action

Intended Use Considerations

Before selecting a single-action revolver, consider:

Hunting applications:

• Cartridge requirements for your intended game

• Barrel length for velocity and accuracy needs

• Sight options for your shooting distances

• Frame size for cartridge compatibility

Target shooting:

• Trigger quality for precision work

• Sight adjustability for different loads

• Grip options for comfort during extended sessions

• Action smoothness for consistent performance

Collecting/Recreation:

• Historical accuracy if authenticity matters

• Finish options for aesthetic preferences

• Manufacturer reputation for long-term value

• Parts availability for maintenance needs

Practical Recommendations

For new single-action shooters:

• Start with .22 caliber to learn the manual of arms

• Focus on fundamentals before moving to larger calibers

• Invest in quality instruction specific to single-actions

• Practice regularly to maintain proficiency

For experienced shooters:

• Consider your specific needs rather than following trends

• Don't overlook older designs that might suit you better

• Invest in quality accessories like grips and sights

• Work with a qualified gunsmith for action improvements

Maintenance and Care

Single-Action Advantages

Single-actions are generally easier to maintain:

• Fewer parts to clean and inspect

• Simpler mechanisms are easier to understand

• Field stripping is typically straightforward

• Parts replacement is often less complex

Common Issues

What I see most often in the shop:

• Timing problems from worn ratchet pads (especially high-capacity cylinders)

• Trigger issues from improper adjustment or wear

• Cylinder binding from fouling or dimensional changes

• Sight problems from recoil or impact damage

Final Thoughts

After working with single-action revolvers for years, I've developed tremendous respect for their enduring design. They represent a perfect example of "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" – the basic mechanism has remained largely unchanged because it works so well.

What I've learned about single-actions:

• Simplicity is a feature, not a limitation in many applications

• They reward skill and practice more than other handgun types

• Quality matters more than capacity for most uses

• They connect us to firearms history while remaining practical today

For potential buyers: Don't let modern high-capacity trends overshadow the real advantages of single-actions. If your intended use aligns with their strengths – hunting, target shooting, or recreational shooting – they're hard to beat.

Remember: More rounds doesn't always equal better performance. Sometimes, six well-placed shots from a reliable, accurate platform are worth more than fifteen from a less suitable firearm.

Training consideration: Single-actions require more deliberate practice than other handgun types, but they reward that investment with superior accuracy and reliability.

No matter your era, we got your six – whether you're drawn to single-actions for their history, their accuracy, or their mechanical elegance, understanding their strengths and limitations will help you make the most of these remarkable firearms.

Questions about single-action revolvers, action work, or sight installation? Blue Coat Arms Company provides comprehensive revolver services including timing correction, trigger work, and accuracy enhancement. Contact us at 217-416-5962 or BlueCoatArms@gmail.com for expert guidance.