Differences between Single Action and Double Action
Contents
Single-Action vs. Double-Action
In firearms terminology, "action" refers to the mechanism that handles the loading, firing, and unloading of ammunition.[1] Among the most common types are single-action (SA) and double-action (DA), which primarily describe the function of the trigger and hammer. The core difference lies in the tasks performed by pulling the trigger.[2]
In a single-action firearm, the trigger performs only one function: releasing a cocked hammer or striker to fire the weapon.[3] Before the first shot, the hammer must be manually cocked, for example, by pulling it back with the thumb on a revolver.[4] For subsequent shots in a single-action revolver, the hammer must be manually cocked each time.[3] In a single-action semi-automatic pistol, racking the slide cocks the hammer for the first shot, and the reciprocating action of the slide automatically cocks the hammer for following shots.[5]
A double-action firearm's trigger performs two functions: it cocks the hammer and then releases it. This allows the firearm to be fired without manually cocking the hammer first, resulting in a longer and heavier trigger pull compared to a single-action.[2] Many double-action revolvers and pistols can also be fired in a single-action mode by manually cocking the hammer, which then provides a shorter and lighter trigger pull for that shot. Some firearms are double-action only (DAO), where the trigger pull is the only way to cock and fire the weapon for every shot.[5]
Comparison Table
| Category | Single-Action (SA) | Double-Action (DA) |
|---|---|---|
| Trigger Function | Performs one action: releases the hammer.[3] | Performs two actions: cocks and releases the hammer. |
| Hammer Preparation | Must be manually cocked before the first shot.[4] | Can be fired from a hammer-down position; trigger pull cocks the hammer.[2] |
| Trigger Pull | Short, light, and crisp.[2] | Long and heavy.[5] |
| Rate of Fire | Slower, as the hammer must be cocked for each shot (on revolvers). | Faster, as a continuous trigger pull can fire successive shots. |
| First Shot Readiness | Slower; requires the separate action of cocking the hammer.[2] | Faster; pulling the trigger is sufficient to fire.[2] |
| Common Examples | Colt Single Action Army, 1911-style pistols. | Most modern revolvers, Beretta 92 and SIG Sauer P226 series pistols. |
Characteristics of Single-Action Firearms
Single-action mechanisms are the oldest type of firearm action. They are known for a light and crisp trigger pull, which can contribute to greater accuracy, making them popular for target shooting and some types of competition. The necessity of manually cocking the hammer before firing is seen by some as an inherent safety feature. However, this extra step makes them slower to bring into action, particularly in high-stress situations.[2]
Characteristics of Double-Action Firearms
The primary advantage of a double-action firearm is its readiness to fire. A user can fire the weapon simply by pulling the trigger, which is beneficial in self-defense scenarios.[2] The long and heavy trigger pull is considered a built-in safety measure by many, as it reduces the likelihood of an accidental discharge.[2] However, this heavier pull can make it more difficult for some shooters to achieve the same level of accuracy as with a single-action, especially for the first shot in a DA/SA pistol or for all shots with a DAO firearm.[5] Many modern double-action firearms offer the versatility of being able to fire in single-action mode as well, giving the shooter a choice between a fast first shot or a more deliberate, precise shot.[4]
References
- ↑ "libertysafe.com". Retrieved November 26, 2025.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 2.7 2.8 "usconcealedcarry.com". Retrieved November 26, 2025.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 "tacticalhyve.com". Retrieved November 26, 2025.
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 "wikipedia.org". Retrieved November 26, 2025.
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 "gungoddess.com". Retrieved November 26, 2025.
