Best of H&R and High Standard revolvers?

C

Casimer

New member
I don't know much about either of these makes, but I've run into some examples that seem decently built. Though I've also seen a lot that haven't held up well.

What are some good models and series to look for among the H&R's and High Standards?

Are the later ones generally better than the early ones, or vice versa?

Are the 32 & 38 S&W break top H&Rs typically shootable w/ modern loads?
 
Most old top break revolvers, you'll want to shoot lightened loads in them. I've heard that modern ammo is downloaded to account for it. There's also a lot to say about the old IJ's, H&Rs and HSs concerning whether or not they can accept smokeless powder. When you get down to talking about a specific revolver, you'll find all the answers you need.

I've got a 47 Iver Johnson Sealed 8, which is a .22 Revolver, and ran a few hundred rounds of high velocity .22lr through it every week until the lockup went bad and ended up shooting myself in the gut with shaved lead. (I thought I got hit with a ricochet and was afraid to look at my stomach for a few seconds). I'm not sure if the HV rounds did it or the revolver is just so old. So, there's a anecdote pertaining to caution for you.
 
H&R produced several very well built, good shooting models.
Mostly all, utility grade revolvers.
I think mosr will agree with me when I say the Sportsman models, produced from the early 1930's through 1990 something were for the most part thier biggest claim to fame.
Several varaitions, from single action competition target shooter, to double action hunter/plinker.
They were just all around, quality pieces!

I only have 2 western style High Standards, which I really like also, but can't really say too much about the company as a whole, other than at one time, they were some popular pistols.
 
I had a 38s&w top break in about 1975, and it was less than a year old at the time. It always seemed to work well for the time that I had it,even tho the factory ammo was pretty anemic.

I traded it off not too long after I aquired it,so don't know how it would have held up,but I actually miss it now.
Sorry, don't remember the model number.
 
Best H&R is the early model Sportsman. Best Hi Standard is the Double Nine. Of the two I prefer the Sportsman.
 
Here's a pic of my personal favorite H&R.
1939 model 777 Ultra Sportsman.
Single Action., factory built competition target shooter.
2-2.5# trigger, crazy accurate, just a true joy to shoot
approx. 1000 made.

dscn16302.jpg


Here's a couple more
1955 model 999
dscn16292.jpg


1951 Sportsman
dscn17192.jpg


Set of 3 1980 model 999's
2 4", and 1 6"
1 4", and the 6" are unfired
All are wearing aftemarket Jay Scott grips.
cylinder0112.jpg
 
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I had one like that 51 but think my grips were wider. Was a real joy to shoot. First wife has it now.
 
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