This was possible with the old “break down” action revolvers, but when solid-frame revolvers were made to withstand the stronger pressure of the nitro powders, the extractor opening lever had to be put in the way of this thumb extension, so that the thumb was crooked to avoid the nail being split by the recoil, or the catch opened by the thumb striking it from the recoil.
The proper way to hold the duelling pistol is not very high up the grip, because if the hold is taken so high up as to make the barrel in line with the arm, the back sight is hidden by the hand.
This lower hold is not a disadvantage, as the obtuse slope of the handle and the perfect balance of the pistol have no tendency to drop the muzzle.
The thumb is curved downwards just enough to get the best grip.
The duelling pistol has a spur at the near end of the trigger guard, which some shooters put their second finger round (see Plate [6]). I find that this only gives one a clumsy handful and that it is better to have the second finger with the others together round the stock, and close under the back of the trigger guard.
PLATE 5. HOW TO HOLD THE DUELLING PISTOL (1)
I am sorry to find that some still cling to the absurd practice of using the second finger to press the trigger, holding the first finger along the pistol.
There is nothing to recommend this and everything to condemn it, and I have never seen it used by a good shot.
It is only a fashion, like the new one of jerking the elbow out at right angles to look at the wrist watch, or turning up the collar, and the bottom of the trousers, on a hot dry day.