H&R Topper Model 88 12 Gauge Single-Shot Shotgun, 30 in Barrel, Fixed Full Choke, 3 in Chamber, Color Case-Hardened, 1981 AX Prefix
This Harrington & Richardson Topper Model 88 is a 12 gauge, single-shot break-action shotgun with a 30 inch plain barrel and a fixed full choke. It features a color case-hardened steel receiver, an external hammer, and a transfer-bar safety marked by U.S. Patent 3,983,848. The AX serial prefix denotes 1981 manufacture in Gardner, Massachusetts, USA. A brass bead front sight and a 3 inch chamber round out this straightforward, American-made field gun.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Overall Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Specific Condition Notes: The firearm is in solid shape. It shows various cosmetic imperfections, scratches, blemishes, and areas of finish loss.
What's Included
- Harrington & Richardson Topper Model 88 12 gauge single-shot shotgun
The Topper Model 88 is built around a simple single-shot break-action with a top-mounted thumb latch and an external hammer. It holds one round and uses a transfer-bar safety system, with the safety patent number (U.S. Patent 3,983,848) marked on the receiver for quick identification.
Its 30 inch plain barrel is paired with a fixed full choke and a brass bead front sight, with no rear sight. The barrel is marked with a circled "P" at the breech end next to the "12 GA. 3" FULL" marking on the top of the barrel, and the chamber accepts 3 inch shells. The configuration is straightforward and purpose-built.
The steel receiver wears a color case-hardened finish, matching the overall finish treatment noted on the frame. The shotgun was manufactured in Gardner, Massachusetts, USA, and the AX serial prefix indicates 1981 production, placing it in the 1980s era of H&R manufacture.
Furniture includes a hardwood pistol-grip stock with a black hard-rubber H&R-logo buttplate and a slim hardwood forend. The stock is uncheckered, and the length of pull measures 14.0 inches, offering a classic, no-frills setup that aligns with the Topper line’s utilitarian design.