Single-Shot Pistols for Sale

GunBroker is the largest online marketplace for firearms, including single-shot pistols from top sellers nationwide. You can also browse a huge assortment of handgun ammo. Buy new and used single-shot pistols from thousands of listings that are updated daily.

What is a Single-Shot Pistol and How Does It Work?

A single-shot pistol is a handgun that only holds one cartridge at a time. Each time it is fired, the empty casing is manually removed before the pistol can be reloaded. They are most often break-action, although there are also bolt-action models available.

Single-shot pistols are also the oldest handgun design, going back to black powder and muzzleloader pistols. Pre-dating the cartridge, these were loaded from the muzzle of the barrel instead of the breech. These are still available for purchase today and are popular among collectors and historical re-enactors.

What Are Single-Shot Pistols Commonly Used For?

Today’s single-shot pistols are most commonly used for target shooting, hunting, benchrest competition, and entry-level firearms for training. Collectors also seek out old single-shot derringers that were once a commonly carried self-defense gun, as their small size made them highly concealable, if not very powerful or accurate.

Not counting short-barreled derringers, longer-barreled models are often used for long-range pistol shooting. With good fundamentals, single-shot pistols are very accurate. This is why some hunters choose them, along with the extra challenge that comes with not relying on a follow-up shot. There are even some Olympic shooting events that are restricted to single-shots.

Are Single-Shot Pistols Good for Beginners?

Yes, single-shot pistols are a good choice for beginners. They are simple to operate and reinforce focusing on each shot to increase accuracy. They also encourage responsible firearms handling, as there are more steps to reload and more opportunities to ingrain habits like always knowing where the muzzle is pointing.

What Calibers Are Available for Single-Shot Pistols?

One of the advantages of single-shot pistols is the wide range of calibers available. Common calibers include .22 LR, .45 Long Colt, and .44 Magnum. However, they can be found in everything from .22 Short up to large rifle calibers. The right caliber should be paired with your intended use, whether for plinking, small or big game hunting, or long-range benchrest shooting.

Can I Change Barrels on a Single-Shot Pistol?

Yes, certain single-shot pistols feature modular designs that allow for swapping barrels. The Thompson Center Encore and Contender pistols are specifically designed around this feature. This allows for different barrel lengths and a huge variety of calibers all using the same frame.

Related Articles & Videos

• Rossi’s Beefed-Up Brawler Now Comes in .223 and 300 Blackout
• Rossi Brawler 300 BLK & 5.56 Single Shot Pistol – Full Features & Specs Overview [Video]
• Features of Bond Arms Cyclops .50AE “Thumper” – Newest Evolution in Big Bore Pistols [Video]
• Highlights of the Trailblazer LifeCard – Single-Shot Pocket Firepower [Video]

Now that you’re ready to buy, find your perfect single-shot pistol from thousands of updated listings at GunBroker today.