High Standard Sentinel R-100 .22 LR Revolver, 6-inch, 9-Shot, DA/SA (1950s, USA)
This 1950s High Standard Sentinel R-100 stands out as a 9-shot, .22 LR double-action/single-action revolver with a 6-inch steel barrel and an aluminum-alloy frame for lighter carry. Designed by Harry H. Sefried II and also sold by Sears as the J.C. Higgins Model 88, it combines distinctive period engineering with practical features, including case-colored controls, fixed sights, and clear factory markings.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Overall Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: The firearm is in solid shape. It has various cosmetic imperfections, scratches, blemishes, and areas of finish loss. The bore remains clean and shiny.
What's Included
- Black leather belt holster with snap retention strap
The Sentinel R-100 features a 6-inch round steel barrel paired with a 9-shot fluted steel cylinder. The cylinder swings out to the left on a crane and is released by a forward pull on the knurled ejector-rod head, a hallmark handling feature of this series.
Construction includes an aluminum-alloy frame originally finished in black anodizing, paired with a blued barrel and cylinder. On this example, the frame’s anodizing is largely worn/stripped to silver/gray alloy with only traces of dark finish remaining. The hammer and trigger are case-colored, and the hammer spur is textured for positive control. Factory literature lists approximately 11 inches overall length and about 25 ounces for this 6-inch variant.
Sighting is straightforward and durable: a serrated ramp front sight and a fixed square-notch rear cut into the topstrap. The revolver wears brown checkered plastic grips with Sentinel medallions for a firm, period-correct hold.
Markings are clear and correct: "HI-STANDARD .22 CAL." on the left side of the barrel, "HIGH STANDARD MFG. CORP., HAMDEN, CONN., U.S.A." on the right, and "R-100" on the frame. This example reflects an early extractor ratchet pattern with nine drilled holes, adding to its period character and collector interest.
Designed by Harry H. Sefried II and made in the USA during the 1950s, the Sentinel R-100 was also retailed by Sears as the J.C. Higgins Model 88, tying it to a notable chapter of mid-century American firearms distribution.