The Letter

Revolver

A revolver (also called a wheel gun) is a repeating handgun that has a revolving cylinder containing multiple chambers and at least one barrel for firing. Revolvers are a subset of handguns, distinct from pistols, which are defined as handguns with an integral chamber-barrel assembly. The revolver allows the user to fire multiple rounds without reloading after every shot, unlike older single shot firearms. After a round is fired the hammer is cocked and the next chamber in the cylinder is aligned with the barrel by the shooter either manually pulling the hammer back (single action operation) or by rearward movement of the trigger (double action operation). Revolvers still remain popular as back-up and off-duty handguns among American law enforcement officers … more »