The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 6 letter word PISTOL
I've seen this crossword clue in Financial Times
P
I
S
T
O
L
More clues leading to the result PISTOL
- Chap is told to carry this weapon
- Large amount brought back by very good shooter
- Opening drink set up: excited to get a slug?
- Many try to turn back shooter
- Dick twisted many an arm
- Gun that’s very good with many rounds
- Trump is to legitimise carrying a handgun
- Weapon has first round in place
- First cut back when circulating piece
- A good deal one rejected following P45, say
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "one of 25" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case one of 25 = pistol.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does PISTOL mean?
PISTOL noun- A handgun, typically with a chamber integrated in the barrel, a semi-automatic action and a box magazine.
- The mechanical component of a fuse in a bomb or torpedo responsible for firing the detonator.
- A creative and unpredictable jokester, a constant source of entertainment and surprises.
- A small boy who is bright, alert and very active.
- An offensive formation in which the quarterback receives the snap at a distance behind the center, but closer than in a shotgun formation, with a running back lined up behind him.
- To shoot (at) a target with a pistol.