Handguns are among the most popular firearms, renowned for their compact size, ease of use, and versatility. Whether you are a gun enthusiast or a beginner shooter, understanding the different types of handguns is crucial.

This blog will explore the various categories of handguns, highlighting their characteristics, common uses, and notable examples.

Handgun Terminology Explained

The world of handguns can be overwhelming with its array of terms and classifications, primarily when others use many of the terms incorrectly or interchangeably.

From pistols and revolvers to single-stack, double-stack, single-action, double-action, etc. — it’s no wonder confusion can set in. In this article, we aim to clarify the different types of handguns and provide a better understanding of these terms.

What is a Handgun?

A handgun is a firearm designed to be held and fired with one hand, although using two hands is often recommended. This term generally encompasses two main categories: revolvers and pistols.

What is a Revolver?

Revolvers, also called “wheel guns,” are the oldest type of handgun, known for their iconic rotating cylinder design. They operate on the principle of chambering rounds in separate chambers within the cylinder. When you pull the trigger, the cylinder rotates, aligning the chamber with the barrel for firing.

Revolvers offer reliability and simplicity and are available in single-action and double-action variants. People commonly use them for self-defense, competition shooting, and as backup weapons by law enforcement. Notable examples include the Smith & Wesson Model 686 and the Colt Python.

Single Action vs. Double Action Revolvers

These terms describe the trigger mechanism of handguns.

Single-Action-Only Revolver (SAO):

Single-action handguns require the shooter to manually cock the hammer before pulling the trigger. This action provides a lighter and more precise trigger pull, often preferred by competitive shooters

Double-Action-Only Revolver (DAO):

In a double-action revolver, pulling the trigger automatically cocks the hammer. Since two actions occur with a single trigger pull, we refer to it as a double-action revolver.

The trigger pull is typically longer and heavier than that of a single-action handgun, but it allows for consecutive shots without manual cocking. Generally, you also have the option to manually cock the hammer on a DA revolver, which results in a lighter trigger pull.

Double-Action/Single-Action Revolver (DA/SA):

Depending on the configuration, DA/SA revolvers are a more modern hybrid design that allows for both single-action and double-action operations. They provide the versatility of switching between the two modes, offering the best of both worlds.

What is a Pistol?

Understanding the distinction between pistols and revolvers can be complex, but it primarily revolves around the design of their chambers and loading mechanisms.

The pistol’s chamber, or multiple chambers in traditional designs, is integrated with the bore/barrel of the gun. Therefore, the barrel and the ammunition chamber have a shared relationship. Some pistols feature multiple bores and chambers for those who appreciate the charm of old-school designs.

Regardless, pistols are still held and fired with one hand, adhering to the definition of a handgun. People often use terms like pistol, gun, and handgun interchangeably, but remember, not all handguns are pistols.

Semi-Automatic Pistols

Semi-automatic pistols, also known as auto pistols, use energy from the fired round to automatically reload the next round from a detachable magazine into the chamber. Their slide mechanism cycles during firing, ejecting spent casings, and loading fresh rounds.

Semi-automatic pistols are popular for their higher ammunition capacity and faster reloading times than revolvers. Civilians, law enforcement, and military personnel widely utilize them. Notable examples include the Glock 17, SIG Sauer P226, and the 1911.

Single Stack vs. Double Stack:

These terms refer to the magazine configuration of semi-automatic pistols.

Single-Stack:

A single-stack pistol has a magazine in which the rounds stack in a single column. This design results in a slimmer grip, making it more comfortable for individuals with smaller hands. However, it typically offers a lower ammunition capacity.

Double-Stack:

In contrast, a double-stack pistol has a magazine with rounds stacked in two columns. This design increases ammunition capacity but may result in a slightly wider grip. It is favored by those who prioritize higher rounds capacity.

Single-Action Pistols

Single-action pistols are a subset of semi-automatic pistols that require the shooter to manually cock the hammer before firing. Once the hammer is cocked, pulling the trigger releases it, causing the firing pin to strike the primer.

These pistols offer lighter trigger pulls preferred by competitive shooters and gun enthusiasts who appreciate precise trigger control. The most famous example is the M1911 platform.

Double-Action Pistols

Double-action pistols are another variant of semi-automatic pistols that you can fire in either single-action or double-action mode. In double-action mode, pulling the trigger both cocks and releases the hammer, allowing for consecutive shots without manually cocking the hammer.

Double-action pistols provide a longer, heavier trigger pull option, which enhances safety and reduces the risk of accidental discharges. Notable examples include the Beretta Px4 Storm Compact, CZ P-01, and Canik TP9DA.

Striker-Fired Pistols

Striker-fired pistols are a popular choice in modern firearms. Unlike hammer-fired pistols, these handguns rely on a spring-loaded striker to initiate the firing process. The striker is released when the trigger pulls, striking the cartridge primer and igniting the round.

This design eliminates the need for a visible hammer, making the firearm sleeker and more streamlined. Examples of striker-fired pistols include the Glock 19, Smith & Wesson M&P Shield, and Springfield XD.

Hammer-Fired Pistols

Hammer-fired pistols utilize a hammer mechanism to fire the gun. When you squeeze the trigger, a spring-loaded hammer is released. The hammer strikes the firing pin, which hits the cartridge primer and initiates the firing sequence.

These pistols can feature external hammers, like the iconic 1911, or internal hammers for a more compact design. Hammer-fired pistols offer a distinct trigger feel and can have different hammer configurations. Popular examples include the Sig Sauer P226, Beretta 92, and CZ 75.

Single-Shot Handguns

As the name suggests, single-shot handguns can hold only one round at a time. These handguns are typically used in hunting applications or as specialized self-defense firearms. The design of single-shot pistols is accurate and powerful, making them suitable for precise shots.

While they may have limited ammunition capacity, their simplicity and reliability can be advantageous in specific scenarios. Examples of single-shot handguns include the Thompson Center Arms Contender and the Remington XP-100.

Break-Action Handguns

Break-action handguns share similarities with break-action shotguns. They feature a hinge mechanism that allows you to manually open the firearm, exposing the chamber for loading and unloading. By breaking the handgun open, it “breaks in half,” except for the lynchpin that holds it together.

Break-action handguns often come in twin-barreled derringers explicitly designed for self-defense purposes. However, older break-action revolvers are available, which have become collectible firearms. Examples of break-action handguns include the Bond Arms Snake Slayer and the American Derringer M1.

What’s a Derringer?

The original Philadelphia Deringer, introduced in 1825 by Henry Deringer, was a single-shot muzzleloading caplock pistol. The term “derringer” gained popularity through a misspelling during the reporting of the Lincoln assassination, which involved a concealed Philadelphia Deringer pistol.

Gunmakers worldwide produced numerous copies of the original Philadelphia Deringer, and the double-r misspelling became widespread. It soon became a generic term for any pocket pistol, alongside the phrase “palm pistol,” invented and used by Deringer’s competitors in their advertising.

Today’s derringers are small, compact handguns with a distinctive design characterized by their two-barrel configuration. They typically have a single-action trigger mechanism and are known for their portability and concealability. Derringers are often used as backup weapons or for concealed carry due to their small size and lightweight nature. Notable examples include the Bond Arms Derringers and models by Old West Firearms.

Reliable Ammunition for Your Handgun Needs

Understanding the different types of handguns is essential for both seasoned firearm enthusiasts and beginners. Whether you’re interested in revolvers or pistols, single-action or double-action triggers, or prefer striker-fired or hammer-fired mechanisms, there is a handgun out there to suit your preferences and needs.

At Ammo Planet, we understand the importance of having reliable ammunition and quality firearms accessories to complement your handgun. We offer various ammunition options, magazines, holsters, and other accessories to enhance your shooting experience and ensure you have everything you need for responsible and enjoyable firearm use.

Visit Ammo Planet today to explore our extensive inventory and find the perfect ammunition and accessories for your handgun. Remember, responsible firearm ownership starts with reliable ammunition and accessories, and Ammo Planet is here to support you every step of the way.