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H&R 38 defender 5 shot

29K views 43 replies 13 participants last post by  TheOldMan 
#1 ·
I have An H&R Arms revolver 5 shot 38. Blueing has been redone. Not a good job of it either. Has plastic 1 piece grips with H&R logo. It is a break top. The numbers on the frame under the grip are as follows. 4657
This is all I have on this gun.
 
#27 · (Edited)
My thought is that these 4" Defender Specials were among the first batch of pre war 4", flat sided barrel revolvers made. Why else would they have the Defender Special barrel stamp a and the finger rest trigger guard, both characteristics of the 2" Defender Special.

Had H&R simply been scrounging for parts to complete revolvers during the war they might have used frames with old serial numbers and might have used finger rest trigger guards. But why use the old Defender Special barrel stamp? I bought this last fall at a local gun show for $200, which I considered to be top dollar. But finding these revolvers in good condition is getting hard in my area and the apparent inconstancy of the markings and design features aroused my curiosity.
 
#30 · (Edited)
I just picked up a Defender 38. The S/N is 11298. It is marked on the fronstrap, left side of frame under the plastic one piece grip, and under the top strap. It has the last 3 numbers marked on cylinder, extractor, and barrel catch. On the right side under grip it looks like it has an upside down 1 next to a K. I will need to replace the barrel catch because it is bent and the rear sight flops around and it is missing the firing pin spring(?). It locks up solidly, but the rear sight drops low and interferes with the hammer.
The barrel is marked DEFENDER 38 on the left side, 38S&W CTGE on the right, WORCHESTER, MASS, USA on top.
I believe it has adjustable sights, as it has an adjustment type screw in the front of the barrel.
My question is regarding Numrich Gun Parts. What model is it listed as, so I may order those few parts I need. I want to make it a shooter. Not worried much about value as I got it for great deal. Just would like to know specifically what variation it is. Thanks. Sorry no pics, as my card reader is not working.
 
#31 ·
leadsled,
the defender 38's were basically buitl on the model 999 sportsman frames so the top latch from a 1940's era sportsman may work. when dealing with used parts suppliers like numrich i have found it very helpful to send in the old parts and let them try to match it up with something in their inventory.

according to the serial number this is most likely one of the model made during WWll 1939-1944. i have one just a couple of hundred number after this one.
bill
 
#34 ·
dondone,
Unfortunately Mr. Goforth passed away back in Jan. of this year. I've been trying to fill his shoes. I believe you posted this info on another site??? Sorry can't help you here with confirmation - but if you find your source, I'll be very gratified to include it in the research literature. Thanks, and good luck.
 
#35 ·
I know this is a very old thread but I found it while surfing for info on a model 25 top-break I have in the shop for repair. I'm trying to find a "hook spring". I have pictures showing how I got the revolver. Serial number is: 14103 which is located exposed on the frame below the trigger guard. The frame has a very interesting finish to it. Almost like a copper wash anodized look. I really would
Gun Revolver Trigger
like some help finding this part. Numrich is no help. Thanks in advance...
 
#37 ·
Are you looking for the part that goes where this arrow is pointing?

If so, the Sportsman 999 part should fit.

http://www.gunpartscorp.com/Products/276690A.htm

The color difference is kinda goofy on that gun.. ...like as if the barrel is a replacement.
 

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#38 ·
Yes sir, that is the part I am looking for. I'll go ahead and order one. If it doesn't work, I'll have one as a spare for another job =). You might have something there about the barrel being a replacement. The whole top half of this firearm has a different look. But so does the cylinder. Anyway, I'll place my order this morning and let you know how it works out.

Thanks again.
 
#42 ·
I'm really beginning to think this is a Frank'n-Gun... I'm going to try and fabricate a hook slide for this revolver and see how that goes...
 
#44 · (Edited)
Ok, I fabricated a hook slide and installed it. When I break open the action, the extractor will push up but then it will not fall back...!?! Do I have the wrong hook in there ?? The picture I posted shows the hook that is in the revolver and the hook slide that I ordered that "should" have worked. Schematics are working off the model 999... HELP!!

One last thing... It looks like the Hook that I have is for the .22 caliber revolver.. Mine is a .38. Maybe that is my issue? wrong Hook?
 
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