Model 14 Single Action Question

[23669d]

Why did S&W offer the Model 14 in Single action only? As stated on page 181 of SCSW pulling the trigger only rotates the cylinder and does not lift the hammer. Whats the advantage over the standard model that you can use single or double action?

 

[23669d]

Why did S&W offer the Model 14 in Single action only? As stated on page 181 of SCSW pulling the trigger only rotates the cylinder and does not lift the hammer. Whats the advantage over the standard model that you can use single or double action?

 

[Alk8944]

They were intended as target pistols. They built them because there was a demand for them at the time.

 

[23669d]

I think all Model 14's were target guns. Why not just use a standard model in single action mode?

 

[SWID]

There are others here who could give you a better answer but basically a single action is simpler and a single action only gun just has a nicer trigger. I have three well tuned 14s, but the single action only is noticeably better.

It was an option because some courses of fire required rapid fire. Although those of us that really worked at it could fire a double action gun almost single action by stopping the trigger pull after the cylinder stop dropped in and then line up the sights one last time. I can't do that anymore.

Hope this helps.

 

[Bullet Bob]

I have 4 model 14's from various years; the factory single-action only is the one I shoot the best. Mind game? I don't know.

 

[pownal55]

my 14-3 is double action, the single action trigger pull is so good i don't believe it could be improved.

 

[23669d]

Pownal55,this is exactly what I meant.Could they possibly have improved the single action pull.Did they do something else to them besides the hammer without the double action sear? I don't understand how eliminating that sear would improve the single action pull,

 

[john traveler]

I recall the late, great Col Jeff Cooper refered to the M14 single action as an "affectation". He also called the LAPD changeover to double-action only revolvers as an engineering solution to a problem that was better solved with proper training and discipline.

This is purely conjecture, but I would think that removal of the DA feature was a move on the part of S&W to take the M14 out of the serious police and self-defense category and place it squarely in the sporting use and competition category of firearms. After all, a sporting competition instrument could not possibly be used for homicidal purposes, right??

 

[Ancient1]

I have the one I special ordered new in 1965. The hammer fall is 1/2 of what the D.A. model is.
This makes for a faster lock time,hence a greater X ring potential hit.

 

[BE Mike]

Not to hijack this thread, but I have a buddy who has a few model 14's in single action only. He is considering replacing the parts to make them double action. Would this decrease their value?

 

[23669d]

The blue book of gun values and the SCSW each state that the single action only model is worth a hundred dollars more than the standard model. If the gun letters as a true single action from the factory and not a converted gun I would think it would hurt its value to convert it to a standard model.

 

[DWFAN]

The single action was first offered with the 14-2 if my memory serves me correct. The lock time is very different.

DW

 

[pownal55]

what gives it faster lock time? shorter hammer fall, stiffer main spring?

 

[SWID]

Shorter hammer fall.

 

[Brassmaster]

I just aquired a Model 14-4 for competiting in the NRA Conventional Pistol (bullseye) Distinguished Revolver matches, expecting a double action and was amazed to find it a single action model. I was ready to ship it back to the dealer for repair (functioning double action) or replacement. then I through this forum/thread I learned that S&W made 14s in single action for competition and they are worth more than DA models. Also, the Blue Book says add 10-15% for pinned barrel. What's the advantage of a pinned barrel over lug?

 

[palmetto99]

my 14-3 is double action, the single action trigger pull is so good i don't believe it could be improved.

Same here.