Revolvers For Sale

Often referred to as a "wheel gun," a revolver operates with the use of a cylinder or wheel. The cylinder holds the bullets and the capacity of these guns is determined by the number of chambers in the cylinder. Wheel guns most often have a 6-round capacity, giving them the nickname "six-shooter."

When the gun is fired, the cylinder revolves. The revolving motion moves another round in front of the barrel and into the "ready" position, while the used casing remains in the wheel instead of being ejected like with a semi-automatic pistol. This process repeats until all of the bullets have been used. The gun is then reloaded by sliding the wheel out, where the used casings can be removed and replaced with new bullets.

Revolvers are made to be either single-action, meaning the hammer must be pulled after each shot is fired to place the next round in the proper position, or double-action, meaning the next round is automatically placed at the appropriate position when a shot is fired.

These guns are available in a tremendous array of calibers, from the 22, which is perfect for plinking and target practice, to the 500 S&W Mag, which is powerful enough to take down North American big game.

While wheel guns are made in a large range of styles and for a vast array of uses, some models continuously see the most sales. These include models made by Ruger, Smith & Wesson, and Taurus, among others.

Among Ruger's most popular models are the LCR, GP100, SP101, and the Blackhawk. A top choice for concealed carry and available in several different calibers, the LCR is short for "Lightweight Compact Revolver." The GP100 is chambered in 357 Mag and available with a 7-shot capacity, while the SP101 is also chambered in 357 Mag but offers a 5-shot capacity and a 2.25" barrel. A single-action wheel gun with old-west style, the Blackhawk has been produced for over six decades.

Smith & Wesson's top sellers include the 642 and the 629, both of which offer stainless steel construction. Suitable for concealed carry, the 642 is small, lightweight, and chambered in 38 Special +P with a 5-shot capacity and enclosed hammer. A popular choice among competitors and big game hunters, the 629 is chambered in 44 Mag with a 6-round capacity.

The most popular models made by Taurus are the Model 85 and the Judge. Suitable for personal protection, the Model 85 is sub-compact, chambered in 38 Special +P, and offers a 5-round capacity. Named for the number of judges that carried it for self-defense, the Judge accepts 45 Long Colt and 410 bore shotgun shells.

Like most guns, the price of revolvers ranges drastically and depends on a number of different factors. With a plethora of options, there is something for just about any sized budget.

One of the most popular cowboy action guns is the 22-caliber Heritage Arms Rough Rider, which can be purchased new for around $100, while the Colt Python can sell used for $4,500, or more. And there are hundreds of options in between.

Ruger models can sell from less than $300 to $800, or more, while Smith & Wesson wheel guns start at about $300 and go up to well over $1,000. Taurus models range from less than $200 to about $900. Of course, antiques, collector's items, and limited-edition models can easily fetch a higher price tag.