Figure 1

Basic Anatomy of a Revolver.Revolvers are handguns that store extra cartridges (1) in multiple chambers (2) within a rotating cylinder (3). When the trigger (4) is pulled, the hammer (5-uncocked position) falls from its cocked position (6-phantom), striking the firing pin (7) which impacts the cartridge (contains primer, powder, and bullet) causing the bullet to discharge out through the barrel (8). Other features include the grip (9), and the cylinder release lever (10). Revolvers can be designed with many intrinsic safety features including: A. Grip Safety; B. Drop Safety (transfer bar); and C. Built-in Lock. Note: Single-action handguns require the hammer to be manually cocked. Double-action handguns are cocked by pulling the trigger but can also be manually cocked. Double-action-only handguns can only be cocked when the trigger is pulled. Each of these types of actions can be found on revolvers and pistols.