Revolvers

Double-Action vs. Single-Action Revolvers

Double-action revolvers fire with a long trigger pull that both cocks and releases the hammer—no manual cocking required. They are the standard for defensive carry and law enforcement revolvers. Single-action revolvers require manually cocking the hammer before each shot, producing a lighter, shorter trigger pull for improved accuracy. Single-action revolvers are the standard for cowboy action shooting and hunting. Most quality revolvers can be fired double-action (for defensive use) or single-action (for deliberate precision shots) as the shooter prefers. See: Cowboy Action Shooting and Snub-Nose Revolvers.

Smith & Wesson Revolvers: The Industry Standard

Smith & Wesson has manufactured revolvers since 1856 and produces the most comprehensive revolver lineup available, organized by frame size: J-frame (compact carry), K-frame (classic service), L-frame (heavy-duty .357 Mag), N-frame (.44 Magnum and larger), and X-frame (.500 S&W). The Model 686 (L-frame .357 Magnum) is the benchmark for a serious defensive or competition revolver. The Model 629 (N-frame .44 Magnum) is the most popular large-bore revolver for hunting. The Model 442 (J-frame .38 Special) is the most carried backup revolver in law enforcement history. See: S&W Revolvers.

Ruger Revolvers: Durability and Value

Ruger produces one of the most durable and value-oriented revolver lineups available, from the GP100 double-action .357 Magnum (one of the strongest production revolvers ever made) to the affordable Wrangler single-action .22 LR. The Ruger Blackhawk covers single-action hunting revolvers in .357 Magnum, .44 Magnum, and .45 Colt. The Super Redhawk handles .44 Magnum and .454 Casull for handgun hunters. See: Ruger Revolvers, Ruger GP100, and Ruger Blackhawk.

Caliber Guide: .38 Special, .357 Magnum, and Beyond

.38 Special is the standard defensive revolver caliber—manageable recoil, effective terminal performance with modern +P hollow point ammunition, and available in J-frame carry revolvers. .357 Magnum uses the same cylinder as .38 Special (in .357 Magnum revolvers) and provides significantly more power for hunting, home defense, and outdoors carry. .44 Magnum is the dominant large-bore hunting caliber, effective on deer and dangerous game at handgun distances. For cowboy action and traditional single-action use, .45 Colt provides classic power in a historically significant cartridge. See: .38 Special Ammo, .357 Magnum Ammo, and .44 Magnum Ammo.

Revolvers for Concealed Carry

Snub-nose revolvers remain one of the most practical concealed carry options for their simplicity of operation, reliability, and slim profile. The S&W J-frame 442/642 and similar 5-shot .38 Special snub-noses fit in a pocket holster and operate with zero manipulation required under stress—just draw and pull the trigger. For new shooters, elderly shooters, or anyone who wants the simplest possible defensive firearm, a quality snub-nose revolver is a legitimate carry choice. The primary tradeoff is capacity—5 rounds vs. 10–15 for compact semi-autos. See: Snub-Nose Revolvers and Concealed Carry.