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Common Handgun Actions

There are four common types of handgun actions.

  • Revolver
  • Semi-automatic pistol
  • Break-action pistol
  • Bolt-action handgun

Handguns generally have short barrels. Because of these lighter, shorter barrels, it is more difficult to maintain safe control of a handgun than it is with a shotgun or rifle with a longer barrel. Be extremely careful when handling handguns!

Locations of safeties on a handgun

The red outlines indicate where safeties are typically located on a handgun.

Common actions on handguns