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definitions

double-action

[duhb-uh l-ak-shuh n]
adjective
  1. (of a firearm) requiring only one pull of the trigger to cock and fire it.

Origin of double-action

First recorded in 1850–55
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018

Examples from the Web for double-action

Historical Examples of double-action

  • A double-action force-pump is seen in Fig. 177, making an upward stroke.

    How it Works

    Archibald Williams

  • I do not like a double-action revolver, except for a pocket one, as it cannot do accurate shooting when cocking with the trigger.

  • One double-action folding machine will fold fifty sheets in a minute.

    The Pictorial Press

    Mason Jackson

  • Even in rapid-fire shooting better results are obtained with a double-action arm if used as a single action.

    Pistol and Revolver Shooting

    A. L. A. Himmelwright

  • It is also more difficult to make the trigger pull smooth and short in double-action mechanisms.

    Pistol and Revolver Shooting

    A. L. A. Himmelwright