Importation & Verification of Firearms, Ammunition and Implements of War
Gun Control Act Definitions
Revolver
18 U.S.C., § 921(A)(29) and 27 CFR § 478.11
The term “Revolver” means a projectile weapon of the pistol type, having a breechloading chambered cylinder so arranged that the cocking of the hammer or movement of the trigger rotates it and brings the next cartridge in line with the barrel for firing.
Note: This illustration shows the primary characteristics exhibited in the revolver category. Since revolver configurations differ significantly, various models in this classification may exhibit any of the illustrated components in a revised configuration but not necessarily all components shown will be incorporated in any one given design.
![Various revolver types:double action, single action, and top break.](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/web/20120928162957im_/http://www.atf.gov/graphics/firearms/importation-guidebook/gca-revolver.jpg)