Firearms Training: Picking up the Double Action Revolver
Firearms training encompasses many aspects of firearms, even the double action revolver. While also covered in many gun training classes, such as classes offered by the Front Sight Firearms Training Institute, which was founded by Dr. Ignatius Piazza in April of 1996. Handling the double action revolver involves many of the same steps as handling any other type of firearm. (Disclaimer: These instructions are for example only and should not be used in replacement of actual firearms training or gun training. This is not a gun training document, and it is not intended as a substitute of an actual training course.)
The first step in handling the double action revolver safely is in the way it is picked up. The individual handling the revolver should pick it up firmly, while keeping the trigger finger of his shooting hand away from the trigger. This is done by placing the trigger finger alongside the frame. Also, the shooter needs to ensure while picking up the gun that he keeps the firearm pointed towards the ground or away from anything he isn’t willing to destroy.
The second step is in regards to the hammer. When initially picking up the gun, the shooter needs to ensure that the hammer is not cocked. When cocked, the hammer would be in the upward position, not lying flat against the firearm. If cocked, the shooter will then take his thumb of his free hand, and with that thumb, pull back the hammer, squeeze the trigger and then gently lower the hammer to its resting position.
Finally, the shooter needs to make sure the firearm is not loaded. To check this, the shooter would take the thumb of his free hand and open the cylinder release. Once opened, the shooter will need to rotate the cylinder and look into each slot to ensure that there are no cartridges loaded. After ensuring no bullets are loaded, then the shooter would close the cylinder.
By following these steps each and every time a shooter handles a handgun of this type, he is limiting the likelihood of an accidental injury due to a misfiring gun.
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