H&R Topper Model 158 .22 Hornet Single-Shot Rifle, 22” Barrel, Color-Case-Hardened Receiver
Produced in 1975, this first-year .22 Hornet variant of the H&R Topper Model 158 pairs a lightweight break-action design with an uncommon factory color-case-hardened receiver. A 22-inch blued steel barrel, drilled and tapped for optics, and a straight-grip hardwood stock fitted with an aftermarket Pachmayr “White Line” recoil pad round out a utilitarian rifle prized by varmint hunters and collectors alike.
Condition
Overall Condition: Very good condition, showing only light, superficial signs of prior handling or use.
Bore Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Rifling Condition: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: Minimal handling marks are present on the stock and forend; the aftermarket Pachmayr recoil pad is firmly fitted with no gaps.
What’s Included
- H&R Topper Model 158 .22 Hornet rifle
- Installed Pachmayr “White Line” ventilated recoil pad
- Factory iron sights
- Scope mount bases (installed)
The AN-prefix serial number confirms 1975 production—the inaugural year H&R offered the Model 158 as a rifle-only platform in .22 Hornet. That early run makes this example a relatively scarce configuration within the Topper series.
The receiver’s vivid color-case-hardening is an uncommon upgrade on H&R’s budget-minded line, offering both aesthetic appeal and added surface hardness. The finish contrasts cleanly with the deep bluing on the 22-inch round barrel.
Designed for simplicity, the single-shot break-action uses an external rebounding hammer and a robust steel locking lug. The action opens quickly for loading, and the rebounding hammer serves as a built-in safety by keeping the firing pin off the primer until the trigger is pulled.
The hardwood straight-grip stock and slim splinter forend keep weight down, while the aftermarket Pachmayr pad softens recoil and improves shoulder purchase. A 13-inch length of pull makes the rifle comfortable for most shooters.
Factory iron sights comprise a ramped front blade and a folding elevator-adjustable rear leaf. Because the barrel is drilled and tapped and mount bases are already installed, adding a low-power scope for longer-range varmint work is straightforward.