Colt Double Action Revolvers

A double-action revolver is any revolver that is both cocked and fired by single pull of the trigger. The trigger commits two actions, hence the double in double action. Double-action revolvers were designed as far back as percussion revolvers, however, they were never widely successful or well designed.

The first successful double-action revolver was the Colt M1877, which was known by a variety of non-official monikers. Double-action revolvers quickly replaced the single-action revolver for police and military after the success of the M1877.

The double-action revolver is easy to operate, fast to fire, and easy to draw. Double-action revolvers served with the military until World War I and with most police until the mid-'80s. The double-action revolver is capable of firing more powerful rounds when compared to an automatic. It remains popular with civilian shooters to this day, especially small, easy-to-conceal models used for self defense.

Quick Facts

• The M1877 was known as the gunsmith’s favorite due to its intricate and delicate design
• The use of polymers is becoming more and more prevalent in double-action revolvers, as observed by designs sold by Ruger and Taurus
• The most powerful production handgun in the world is a double-action revolver, the Smith & Wesson .500