Okay, so managing the defensive revolver is not really an art form, but you get the idea. Fifty years ago, the double-action revolver was considered the top of the heap when it came to personal protection. The fact that the semi-automatic pistol began to gain in popularity does not, and never did, diminish the revolver as a defensive tool in the right hands. One is not better than the other; they are just different... just like people are different. And, even after all these years, a well-trained person with a revolver should not be taken lightly.
As with any firearm-related skills, the best "shortcut" is good training. Gunsite Academy offers revolver classes, and one would be well advised to talk to Ken Campbell or Lew Gosnell. Clint Smith, the head honcho at Thunder Ranch, is another instructor who cut his teeth on revolvers and does a great job of teaching those skills. In addition, my friends Daryl Bolke, Wayne Dobbs, Bryan Eastridge and Chuck Haggard are all savvy six gun men and great teachers; you won’t regret signing up for their classes.
While many of the six-gunners from years past are no longer with us, much of their writing remains. I would suggest that a person read anything written by Bill Jordan (“No Second Place Winner”), Skeeter Skelton, Ed McGivern, and Elmer Keith, just to name a few.
As one begins to get involved in shooting and carrying the double-action revolver, they begin to learn about the importance of selecting the properly fitting stocks, suitable holsters and practice and defensive ammunition. The draw stroke that most of us teach today will work fine for the revolver, with some consideration being given to the management of the double-action trigger press.
In fact, learning to manage the double-action trigger is an important part of success with the revolver. Again, it’s not right or wrong, good or bad, it’s just different. It takes understanding and practice. But, the fact is that a lot of folks survived, and survive today, having properly applied the double-action trigger stroke to a bad situation.
I got serious about learning the double-action revolver as a young peace officer more years ago than I care to remember; however, it was in fact after the black-powder era. Those old six guns saved my life and the lives of several of my co-workers over the years. And I am glad to see this old friend coming back in popularity after all this time.
So, if you are interested in the double-action revolver just have at one, be sure to take advantage of the knowledge of six-gun instructors, past and present and enjoy the learning process. Properly applied, the double-action revolver will solve the problems that armed citizens face. History has proven that.
