ExpressLane
Verified User
Exactly.The safety on early single-action pistols, muskets, and rifles is the half-cock. When the weapon is half cocked, it cannot be fired. The hammer has to be fully cocked before it can fire. If the hammer is in the down position, it must be manually cocked to fire. A trigger pull won't do it. Only double action pistols and rifles will fire from the down position on a trigger pull.