Q&A for How to Shoot a Revolver

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Are there any other methods to hold or grip a revolver?

Mark Schneider
Firearms Instructor
Mark Schneider is a Firearms Instructor based in Denver, Colorado. His journey into the world of firearms, novice gunsmithing, shooting, and tactics began nearly two decades ago. Over the course of his career, he has amassed over 18 years of firearms instruction experience and 10 years of security experience, predominantly in the realm of armed uniformed security. Mark has run a licensed security company and holds a license as an armed security guard with the City & County of Denver. Mark holds NRA certifications and has held multiple roles, including NRA Certified Pistol Instructor, NRA Inside The Home Protection Instructor, NRA Outside The Home Protection Instructor, NRA Refuse to Be a Victim Instructor, and NRA Chief Range Safety Officer. Mark’s extensive training history includes a wide array of tactical and security courses, encompassing advanced pistol, rifle, and shotgun training, close-quarter combat, ambushing tactics, and more.

Mark Schneider

Firearms Instructor

Expert Answer

You can also do a two-handed grip on the revolver by wrapping your fingers around it in a butterfly method. Ensure your fingers are close together with no gaps. Start with your right hand gripping the gun, wrapping your thumb around it if you're right-handed. Then, bring your left hand around, interlocking your fingers in a butterfly motion for a secure hold. For additional guidance, consider watching instructional videos or lessons to enhance your understanding and proficiency in employing the butterfly grip technique.

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Question

Do I have to cock a single action each time to fire each shot?

Community Answer

"Single-action" means you cock the weapon before firing, so yes.

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Question

If I put bullets in, can I shoot it without cocking it back?

Community Answer

It depends on whether the revolver is Single-Action or Double-Action. If it's a Double-Action revolver, you can freely fire it without cocking the hammer, as it will manually cock itself as you pull the trigger.

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Question

What is the recommended distance for target shooting?

Community Answer

There is no "recommended" distance, but most people shoot at 3, 5, and 15 yards (not meters). 15 yards would be 45 feet. If you are practicing for self-defense, then I suggest going to a range that has target retrievers, which allow you to position your target anywhere along the lane and practice at whatever distance feels comfortable to you. From there, you can gradually work your way farther out.

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Question

At the range do I always pull back the hammer first to shoot a revolver, or just squeeze the trigger when shooting?

Community Answer

If it is single action, you must pull the hammer back; if it's double, you can just pull the trigger.

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Question

Do I squint while aiming?

Community Answer

This all comes down to two things: distance and personal preference. Personally: I shoot with both eyes open on all handguns when the target is 15m or closer. If the target is further, I close my non-dominant eye.

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Question

What if my right hand is dominant, but my left eye is dominant when shooting a revolver?

Community Answer

Rotate your head so your dominant eye is lined up with the revolver (or pistol).

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Question

Is it bad to pull the trigger of an unloaded revolver?

Community Answer

On newer models, yes, this is a bad idea. Older models tend to have the firing pin break. Always check the chamber before dry firing.

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What should I load my gun with if I don't have any bullets?

Community Answer

It is very useful to load a pistol, revolver or semi-automatic, with "dummy" cartridges. These are often called snap caps. Using the dummy cartridges allows one to practice holding and firing the firearm.

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Question

Should I choose a multi-round revolver for self-defense, such as Smith & Wesson 617 (10 rounds)?

Edwin ng

Community Answer

No, use the pistol. You have to take out the revolver chamber and load each one singly, then load that chamber back into the revolver.

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