H&R 32 Revolver Serial Numbers: Detailed Review
The Harrington Richardson 32 revolver shotgun is one of the iconic and reputable handguns in the market. Knowing the H&R 32 revolver serial numbers will help you identify the manufacture date. This post will consider the H&R 32 revolver serial numbers data, the H&R 32 double action revolver specifications, and its history.
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Harrington and Richardson Revolver Serial Numbers Data
Variant | Production Year | Letter Code and Details |
The First Variant | 1905 | They featured a letter code above A40000 and were located at the bottom of the butt strap. |
Second Variant | 1906 | Featured a letter code above A75000 |
Second Variant | 1907 – 1908 | The serial numbers ranged from 00001 to 150000 and were a continuation of the large frame auto ejector third model. |
Third Variant | 1909-1913 | The serial number range was approximately 150000 to 289000. There was an overlapping of the serial numbers on the higher range since old barrels were used with new frames. |
Fourth Variant | 1916-1924 | The serial numbers ranged between A 288300 to A 300000. However, there was an overlapping with the third Harrington Richardson model variation. |
Fifth variant | 1925-1941 | The serial number ranged between A 300000 to A 357000 with some overlapping other variations. |
In the early production pieces, serialization was the batch numbers which ran up to 9999, then returned to 01. To record the serial number, you had to remove the cylinder and view the number, which had a letter prefix stamped on the bottom side of the top strap.
The second model represented a change in frame and grip contour and shape. This model also introduced patented black, rigid rubber grip panels with a target logo molded on the top.
The serial numbers had six or seven numbers and a letter prefix. However, the double-action Harrington Richardson revolver numbers have changed over the years depending on the variations released.
Do They Still Make Harrington Richardson Model Shotguns?
Yes, Harrington Richardson still manufactures shotguns. Harrington Richardson had been producing the Harrington Richardson revolver since its beginning in 1871.
Harrington and Richardson 32 Double Action Revolver
The first Harrington and Richardson arms were manufactured in 1871. The firm was founded by Daniel Wesson’s brother and Frank Wesson, who later formed the Harrington Richardson firm with Augustus Harrington.
In 1878, the New Model Army Revolver was introduced. This handgun featured an improved Single Action Army Model. It had a top strap, making it more rigid and durable than the other revolver, and was produced until 1885.
As a follow-up to the New Model Army Revolver, Harrington and Richardson created the Double Action First Model revolver in 1886. This was a double-action revolver with the option of a trigger guard. They were produced until 1892.
In 1892, the Harrington Richardson Double Action Revolver Second Model was released. This weapon was similar to First Model, with a few minor modifications. These second-model revolvers were produced until 1897.
Specifications
- Small frame, double action, top break revolver with a double top post barrel latch.
- Calibers and cylinder release capacity: – 22 rimfire has a capacity of 7 rounds while the 32 centerfire has five rounds; the 22 S&W long cartridge listing was dropped from the catalogs about 1913 and replaced with the 22 long rifles.
- Standard barrel length – 3 inches, with 2, 4, 5, and 6 inches available as options.
- The Harrington Richardson model features a frame, cylinder, barrel, and double action mechanism designed for use with smokeless powder.
- The double-action revolver has an automatic cylinder stop, a two-piece hard rubber grip frame, and a target logo at the top. It is available in small and oversize target styles. The Ivory and pearl grips are also available.
- The cartridge chambering on the left part of the barrel indicates that it was made for smokeless powder and was made after 1900. The Five shot cylinder means it only chambers the .32 S&W.
- Weight – the 22 caliber weighs 13 ounces, while the 32 caliber weighs 12 ounces.
- Finish – The Harrington Richardson double-action break revolver features a nickel finish or an alternative blue finish.
Model variations
The Single Action Army Model – First Variation
This was the first Harrington Richardson 32 revolver.
It was manufactured between 1905 to 1908.
This firearm was remarkably similar to the Colt Single Action Army revolver, one of history’s most recognizable firearms. The primary distinction between the two revolvers is that the double-action H&R model has a shorter barrel length.
The model name and caliber were located on the left part of the barrel.
The male threads were on the cylinder arbor, and the female threads were on the cylinder bushing.
Second Variation
They were manufactured between 1909 to 1912.
The model name was also located on the barrel’s left side.
Third Variation
It featured an auto-ejecting mechanism which Fredrick Smith patented.
Barrel markings were altered to reveal only the patent date.
The Harrington Richardson company overproduced it, and thus, it was more common in late production serial numbers.
Fourth Variation
Production years 1916-1924.
The auto-ejector featured a spring-loaded ejector plate and an expanded space added to the bottom of the top latch that kept the cylinder away from the threads on the cylinder arbor.
Fifth Variation
This Harrington Richardson model variant was produced between 1925 and 1941
It came with a new grip frame the same size as the rest of the frame and didn’t have a step-down for the grip panel.
The caliber was marked on the barrel’s left side.
What Type of Ammo Does a 32 Revolver Use?
The Harrington and Richardson 32 revolver uses a variety of ammo depending on the model. These include The 32 S&W Long cartridge, the 22 short cartridges, the 22 long rifle cartridge, and the 22 extended rifle cartridge.
Harrington Richardson Arms Company 5-round Revolver
From 1948 through 1986, the Harrington and Richardson 500 was a five-shot double-action revolver chambered in a 22 Long Rifle and manufactured by the Harrington and Richardson Company.
The 500 was constructed of stainless steel and had a two-inch barrel. The grips were black plastic and adorned with silver H&R emblems.
The Harrington Richardson revolver was designed for concealed carry and personal defense. It is small enough to be carried in a pocket or purse.
FAQ
Do they still make 32-caliber revolvers?
Yes, the Harrington and Richardson arms company has been manufacturing the 32 caliber revolvers since 1871. Their 32-caliber revolvers are still manufactured today and are backed by a longstanding tradition of quality craftsmanship.
What year was my revolver made?
To check the year of manufacture for your hr revolver, visit OldGuns.net‘s site and click on the U.S. Military Dates of Manufacture page. Choose whether your firearm is a handgun or a long gun, then click the corresponding link to access the lookup tool. Then, please search for the date your firearm was manufactured by entering its serial number.
Alternatively, Smith & Wesson and Harrington Richardson can help you by looking up the serial numbers in their records and sending you a nice certificate of authenticity telling where and when the gun was sold and how it was equipped. However, you will be charged for the service.
Is 32 S&W the same as 32 H&R?
No, Even though the 32 H&R Magnum or .32 S&W are perfect rounds for hunting, target shooting, and plinking, they differ in velocity and energy. The 32 Harrington Richardson Magnum has a higher velocity and energy than the 32 S&W.
Is a 32 a good carry gun?
Yes, the 32 is a good carry gun. Some people consider it too small for ‘proper’ self-defense. The guns are small, easily portable, and concealable. Convenience is a factor for most people regarding concealed carry, and the small 32 is often considered over larger guns that are more difficult to conceal.
How old is the .32 Smith and Wesson revolver?
The 32 S w revolver is over 140 years old. It was first manufactured in 1878 by the union metallic cartridge company for the Smith and Wesson Pocket revolvers.
What bullets can fit a 32 revolver?
The other bullets that can fit a 32 revolver include the .32 H&R Magnum, .327 Federal Magnum, and the .357 Magnum.
Is a 32 a good carry gun?
Yes, the 32 is a good carry gun. Some people consider it too small for ‘proper’ self-defense. The guns are small, easily portable, and concealable. Convenience is a factor for most people regarding concealed carry, and the small 32 is often considered over larger guns that are more difficult to conceal.
How old is the .32 Smith and Wesson revolver?
The 32 S w revolver is over 140 years old. It was first manufactured in 1878 by the union metallic cartridge company for the Smith and Wesson Pocket revolvers.
What bullets can fit a 32 revolver?
The other bullets that can fit a 32 revolver include the .32 H&R Magnum, .327 Federal Magnum, and the .357 Magnum.
Conclusion
Helping you understand your Harrington Richardson serial number was our primary goal. We have also looked into the Harrington and Richardson revolver history and outlined the key features. We hope you have got it right.
Do you have a Harrington Richardson double-action revolver? What is the serial number? Please share it with us in the comments section below.
Tyler Purols
Tyler Purol is a professional Bowhunter. He has professional training in hunting. For many years he hunts regularly.