Final answer:
A single-action gun requires the hammer to be manually cocked before each shot, while a double-action gun performs both cocking the hammer and releasing it with a single pull of the trigger. Examples of single-action guns include the Colt 1911, while examples of double-action guns include Smith & Wesson revolvers.
Step-by-step explanation:
A single-action gun is one where the trigger performs only one function, which is releasing the hammer to strike the firing pin. The trigger must be manually cocked before each shot. An example of a single-action gun is a Colt 1911.
A double-action gun is one where the trigger performs two functions - both cocking the hammer and releasing it to strike the firing pin. This allows for a single pull of the trigger to fire the gun. An example of a double-action gun is a Smith & Wesson revolver.