double-action

[ duhb-uhl-ak-shuhn ]

adjective

1. (of a firearm) requiring only one pull of the trigger to cock and fire it.

Word History and Origins

Origin of double-action¹

First recorded in 1850–55

Example Sentences

If so, he thought, a COVID-19 vaccine might bolster the population of those double-action B cells—and broaden survivors’ immunity.

From Science Magazine

A spokesman for the Beretta company called this unlikely because the gun’s double-action trigger was designed to prevent unintentional firing.

From Literature

As the two shook hands, an Italian immigrant named Giuseppe Zangara drew a nickel-plated .32 caliber double-action revolver and from 35ft fired off five shots in 15 seconds.

From The Guardian

Overall, this double-action handgun’s length is 7.9 inches with a 4.5-inch cold hammer-forged, stainless-steel threaded barrel and recessed target crown.

From Fox News

He heard four gunshots, but thinks a “double-action trigger” was used because the autopsy showed seven gunshot wounds.

From Time