Handgun Loading and Handling

Hunting with handguns has grown in popularity in recent years. Many of the fundamentals of rifle firing also apply to shooting handguns.

• Single-action revolvers typically load through a gate on the right side of the frame. To rotate the cylinder, pull the hammer back to half-cock. For a safer carry in the holster or hand, leave an empty chamber in front of the hammer.
• Double-action revolvers have cylinders that fall downward, exposing all chambers for loading.
• Semi-automatics usually fire rounds stored in a magazine that is inserted in the grip or handle.