It sounds as if the single action sear is damaged or gone.. If these are the old break action revolvers in caliber 32 & 38 then it may well have been made without a single action sear. These were double action only guns. They were pocket pistols usually carried in a pocket holster og a leather lined pocket, for personal protection. If they were used it would likely be at close range and the need extreme. Some were made without hammers or more correctly with totally hidden hammers to create a smoother profile for less hanging up on clothing.
