[ebluebill]

Hello, I am new to this forum and to guns in general. I just purchased a H & R SINGLE SHOT SHOTGUN, 16 GA., SN 196801, with a pat. date Feb 27, 1900.
From other answers I have read on this forum, especially by b.goforth, I understand that the 1900 is the model #, not the date of manufacture. Is there any way of telling what yr it was made by the SN 196801. I also assume it should not be fired, due to its age, even though the condition is good. Am I correct.
Also, what type of license, if any, should I have to own this and any other antique guns I may purchase later. Thank you for any responses.

[skullcrusher]

Originally Posted by ebluebill

Hello, I am new to this forum and to guns in general. I just purchased a H & R SINGLE SHOT SHOTGUN, 16 GA., SN 196801, with a pat. date Feb 27, 1900.
From other answers I have read on this forum, especially by b.goforth, I understand that the 1900 is the model #, not the date of manufacture. Is there any way of telling what yr it was made by the SN 196801. I also assume it should not be fired, due to its age, even though the condition is good. Am I correct.
Also, what type of license, if any, should I have to own this and any other antique guns I may purchase later. Thank you for any responses.

Pics might help. But, in most cases just because a gun is old, it does not mean it should not be fired. The case is unique to each gun. As far as the age, have you tried to contact H&R? They are now part of Marlin Arms, which is part of Remington, which is part of a huge conglomerate, but the records have been kept. Good luck.

I'm not sure of your state laws for gun registraion, etc. Most states do not have registration of firearms, especially for long guns. Check your local laws.

[robocop10mm]

Even if the patent date is 1900, most H&R's are far newer than that. Because they are inexpensive shooters, really old specimens are generally worn completely out and discarded. If it is not a rust bucket and seems to lock up fairly tight, take it to a competent gunsmith for a once over. If it gets a good bill of health, enjoy it.

[UnderFire]

Originally Posted by ebluebill

Also, what type of license, if any, should I have to own this and any other antique guns I may purchase later. Thank you for any responses.

Not sure about Maryland, but in Florida owners don't need licenses and firearms don't have to be registered. Only firearm permit in Florida I'm aware of is a CWP (Concealed Weapons Permit).

[ebluebill]

Thanks to every ones quick reply. There is a new problem with sale so may not get it anyway, but I will be looking for another if not.

[spittinfire]

I'll echo robocop10mm. I've got one in 410 and I don't plan on selling it until it's unshootable. Where else can you get a nice 410 for $75 in like new condition?

[skullcrusher]

Originally Posted by ebluebill

Thanks to every ones quick reply. There is a new problem with sale so may not get it anyway, but I will be looking for another if not.

You can get brand new H&R and NEF single shot shottys with wood stocks for not very much money. Less than $300. I love them. Beautiful wood and good shooters. I hope you find one you want and like.

[c3shooter]

Quick note on old shotguns- special attention 16 g owners- Shot shells come in different lengths. While the standard length for 12, 16, and 20 is 2 and 3/4s, THAT WAS NOT ALWAYS SO. The 16 g USED to have a standard length of 2 and 9/16th. The longer shell WILL chamber- but is unsafe to shoot in a short chambered gun.

Before deciding to shoot ANY firearm that is older than yer daddy, it is a really good idea to have a competent smith take a look, and see if you are about to explore that double indemnity clause on your life insurance policy.

I DO have some guns that I shoot that were made in the EIGHTEEN hundreds- but they are in very good condition- AND get fed the correct ammo.

'Scuse me- I will go put my soapbox away now........

[ebluebill]

Thanks again for the advice. I would never shoot an older gun without it being checked out first also.
There is one thing I dont understand though. Why do all the auction houses demand a FFL from collectors/individuals in order to purchase an "antique" firearm. This is the problem I am having at the moment with this purchase.

[skullcrusher]

Firearms manufactured after 1898 (I believe) need to be transferred through FFL. Just because it is an antique does not mean it is old enough to not have to go through FFL.