Q: Can you explain the difference between single-action and double-action revolvers?
A: A single-action revolver is a type of a revolver in which the hammer must be cocked manually to rotate the cylinder for each shot. The firearm is then discharged by a pull of the trigger. This process is repeated for each shot.
In double-action revolvers, all three processes--rotation of the cylinder, cocking and firing--are performed by a single pull of the trigger. However, most double-action revolvers can also be fired in the single-action mode by manually cocking the hammer.