How to Fan a Single Action Revolver

Apart from its prevalence in Hollywood Westerns, the sport of fast drawing is gaining popularity in the U.S. The major component of the fast draw is fanning your gun to get as many shots in as short a time as possible. Using what is commonly known as the slap-cock technique to fan your revolver lets you maximize your speed.

Things You'll Need

  • Wax bullets
  • Shooting range
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Ready your drawing hand by holding it close to your gun without actually touching it. Keep your index finger ready to slide inside the trigger guard.

    • 2

      Cross your non-dominant hand across your waist and keep it poised to fan the hammer. Get ready to slap the hammer back with the palm of your hand.

    • 3

      Draw your gun by twisting it backward out of the holster. Keep it at waist level to avoid wasting time. This is commonly called shooting from the hip.

    • 4

      Slap the hammer back with your non-dominant hand. The gun is now cocked and ready to begin your series of shots.

    • 5

      Pull the trigger and immediately slap the hammer back again. As soon as the hammer strikes the bullet, it is ready to be cocked again. Work on slapping it back as soon as you pull the trigger. Try to develop a steady two-part rhythm, then work on speeding up your tempo.

    • 6

      Repeat until you've expended all your shots.