Revolvers seem to be either a mystery to people or an obsession. Of course, there are some people that fall in between. However, most of the shooters I’ve spoken to about revolvers have either never shot one or swear by and collect them. 

Regardless of which category you fall into, I have a piece of advice. If you’re going to carry a gun or use one for home protection, it should be a revolver because they are 100-percent reliable. 

Well, actually, hopefully you read to this point to see that I am only providing the first myth I plan to touch on. While they are indeed reliable, no gun is 100 percent. Let’s take a look at a few of the more common myths floating around out there.
 

REVOLVERS ARE 100-PERCENT RELIABLE

Semi-auto handguns have more types of malfunctions that can arise due to the additional parts and components, but revolvers are definitely not exempt from experiencing their own issues. Even something as simple recoil can cause extractor rods to come loose and bullets to jump forward. 

Operator errors such as short stroking the trigger can also cause issues. You should incorporate malfunction clearing and dry firing into your training regimen, just as you would with a semi-auto handgun to be safe.

YOU DON’T HAVE TO CLEAN REVOLVERS
 

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve encountered people that say they’ve never cleaned their revolver and don’t plan to either. It’s a common misconception that revolvers will continue to perform flawlessly regardless of how dirty they get. 

However, excessive powder and residue can cause the gun to bind and even stop the cylinder from turning. In short, if you clean your other guns after a certain number of rounds, do the same with your revolver. 

REVOLVERS DON’T MAKE GOOD CARRY GUNS

Sure, they have their pros and cons like any other gun, but to say they don’t make good carry guns is inaccurate. I always say the best gun to carry is one that you shoot well and are comfortable with. Revolvers are concealable, easy to operate, and have plenty of ammo choices. And, as I mentioned above, they are very reliable. 

While capacity can be a concern for some folks, and rightfully so, you can always carry extra ammo in something like an ammo pouch or even a speed loader. If you’re comfortable and confident with your revolver, go ahead and carry it!  
 

REVOLVERS ARE EASIER TO OBTAIN
 

The myth that there are less stringent requirements – or no background checks required – to purchase revolvers is one of the more shocking myths. Not only have I heard this personally, but I have also read it online. The requirements are no different than your typical semi-auto pistols, and the background checks are most definitely still required. Just because revolvers tend to have a lower capacity than semi-autos, the eye of the law doesn’t look the other way. 
 

FINAL THOUGHTS

Revolvers seem to be making a comeback, which is nice to see. I have noticed them popping up more in stores and on social media. They are great firearms to have in your collection, whether you plan to use them for home protection, range toys, or for concealed carry purposes. Make sure to not let the myths about them lead you astray.