They're supposed to be different, and it's more than the grips. The configuration of each gun is different too. The single actions have barrels higher in relation to the grips and tend to recoil with a good deal more muzzle flip. The double actions tend to recoil rearward more forcefully. Neither is better, but they are different. My issue with wooden single action grips is that they're slippery and don't fit my hand. I do, however, like rubber grips on a Ruger, like those made by Pachmayr.