H&R The American Double Action First Model .38 S&W, 2.5-Inch Octagonal Barrel, 5-Shot Antique Revolver (1888–1897)
This Harrington & Richardson The American Double Action First Model stands out for its documented 2.5-inch octagonal barrel variant, noted as less common than the longer offerings. It is an antique .38 S&W solid-frame revolver from the 1888–1897 era, with the top strap marked "THE AMERICAN DOUBLE ACTION" and an early-production cue of an unmarked left barrel flat. The blued steel finish is contrasted by a factory nickel-plated trigger guard that is included separately.
Condition
Overall Condition: Poor condition.
Bore Overall Condition: Fair - Generally clean, some residue or smudges, slight corrosion.
Specific Condition Notes: Markings from prior handling and use are present. Parts are missing, and gunsmithing is required for function. This revolver is sold as-is. Please refer to the photos for the included parts and overall state.
What’s Included
- Factory nickel-plated trigger guard (removed), assembly number 657
- Assorted small internal parts and screws as shown (springs and pins)
Made in the United States between 1888 and 1897, this First Model is a solid-frame hand-ejector pattern with a right-side loading window and a manual, knurled ejector rod beneath the barrel. The five-shot fluted cylinder and exposed hammer with a checkered spur reflect the model’s practical 19th-century design.
The 2.5-inch octagonal barrel is a documented short-barrel variant that is less common than longer configurations. The left barrel flat lacks caliber and address markings, an early-production characteristic often associated with the black-powder period for this model. Chambering is .38 S&W.
Markings include the top strap legend "THE AMERICAN DOUBLE ACTION." Sighting is via fixed iron sights with a half-moon front blade and a top-strap rear notch. The frame and cylinder are blued steel, paired with checkered black hard-rubber birdshead grips featuring a decorative pattern.
A factory nickel-plated trigger guard is included separately and shows assembly number "657," providing a useful reference for part matching. The contrasting nickel guard against the blued frame is a known configuration on examples of this model and era.