[dteed4094]

I got this H&R when my Dad passed and he acquired them not too long before. As far as I know Dad never fired it and I would like to Know exactly what it is and what type of Ammo to use in it. I'm pretty sure it's 38 S&W but Not sure if I can use modern ammo or not as the caliber is not anywhere on the gun. SN=49376 under the top strap, and on the heel of the grip, also notice the last 3 digits are on the back surface of the cylindar and on the ejector.The latest patent date is April 7,1896. It has MOP grips and looks as though it has been shot very little and kept very nice for as old as I think it may be. Any info would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.

[hiwall]

Modern 38 S&W ammo is loaded fairly weak, so likely fine in that model gun if it is in good working condition(something a picture can not show). Some of the early guns like that were made for black powder loads. But when smokeless came out everyone started shooting smokeless in every gun anyway. But why shoot it? Though I do admit to shooting a large number of early cartridge guns myself

[dteed4094]

The gun looks like 10 rounds were fired through it then properly stored. I think it's a 1903 mnfg and almost positive pre 1905. I just thought it would be a Hoot to shoot. My wife wants to carry it! Considering it's condition inside and out, it's hard to believe it's that old. Did they make 38 S&W in black powder?

[JTJ]

Just remember that 38S&W is not the same as 38S&W Special. The spl should not be able to fit in anyway but if you buy it by mistake you can send it to me.

[c3shooter]

Oh, my- yes. The .8 S&W was fielded in 1887 as a black powder cartridge. Many folks consider about 1899 as a changeover date to smokeless.

In GENERAL, would not suggest shooting smokeless loads in ANY BP gun, but that one appears to be in excellent condition. There s no major maker that is loading a SD or HP round for that, so you should be OK- Standard factory load seems to be about a mild 145 gr RNL, reported that Fiocchi makes a FMJ, but have not seen any.

Nice gun, BTW.

[dteed4094]

Thanks 4 the info. I have a little over a full box buy by the sound of things I should hold onto it. I'm caliber poor already but it's not like I'll shoot it often.

[twoolddogs]

Your H&R Double Actin Hammerless Large Frame, in this fine condition is a collector's item, even with MOP grips which may have been a factory option. These revolvers are rarely seen in this condition.

The Hammereless DA Model was chambered in .32 S&W Long and .38 S&W calibers. To determine the caliber, measure the diameter of the chambers in the cylinder. The diameter of the .32 S&W Long cartridge is 0.335" and the diameter if the .38 S&W cardtridge is 0.386". The current pressure standard (SAAMI) for the .32 S&W Long is 15,000 psi and for the .38 S&W, 14,500 psi, which is basically equivalent to Black Powder Pressures.

Serial Number 49376 would put the manufacture date after 1900 . I would not hesitate to fire this lovely revolver with currently loaded major factory(i.e. Winchester, Remington, etc.) ammunition..

[bamashooter68]

Man thats a nice gun. Your pops did a good job keeping it properly stored. As far as shooting it goes magtech makes a 98gr LRN 705fps and 108 ft-lbs energy and a 98gr SJHP 778fps and 132 ft-lbs energy. I would think the first one for sure and probably both loads would be fine in our gun. Sorry I goofed. These are 38 S&W Long. Im not sure if its compatable.

Whatever you decide, you have a very nice well maintained old gun. Keep up your dads good work.

[Colby]

That is such a nice gun in such good condition, I'm not sure I would want to see it possibly get beat up being used as a carry.
There are some excellent carry revolvers out that would do that with no loss.

[dteed4094]

Thanks for the compliment on the revolver. I Won't let it be carried but I'll probably have to get her a new one. She isn't conifindent with her LCP. The revolver has a nasty trigger but then so does the LCP.