H&R Sportsman Double Action .22 LR Top-Break Revolver, 6" Barrel, 9-Shot, 1940 A-Prefix
This pre-model-number H&R Sportsman Double Action stands out as a 1940 production revolver on the Rice-frame with a triple-lug hinge and automatic star extractor. It features a 6" ribbed, tapered barrel, a nine-shot fluted cylinder, and target-style sights with an adjustable rear and pinned Patridge front. The barrel is rollmarked with the Worcester, Mass., U.S.A. address, and the A-prefix serial indicates 1940 per H&R’s year-letter system.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair condition, showing extensive signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: The finish shows significant wear with areas of thinning, dings, and scattered pitting. The cylinder lockup is loose and will need to be addressed.
What’s Included
- Harrington & Richardson Sportsman Double Action .22 LR revolver
Built on H&R’s Rice-frame with a robust triple-lug hinge, this top-break, double-action/single-action design uses an automatic ejector and star extractor to clear the cylinder efficiently. The nine-shot fluted cylinder maximizes capacity in a compact rimfire package.
The 6" steel barrel is ribbed and tapered, giving a steady sighting plane and balanced feel. Target-oriented sights include an adjustable square-notch rear mounted on the topstrap and a pinned square Patridge-style front sight.
Markings are correct for the period: the barrel is rollmarked "H.&R. 'SPORTSMAN' DOUBLE ACTION" alongside the Worcester, Mass., U.S.A. address. The A-prefix serial aligns with 1940 production per H&R’s year-letter system, placing this revolver squarely in its pre-model-number era.
Construction is all steel for the frame, receiver, barrel, and cylinder, paired with a one-piece checkered walnut target-style grip and a spur hammer. Chambered in .22 LR with a 9-round capacity, it reflects the Sportsman line’s focus on rimfire target and field utility during this period.