H&R Sportsman 22 LR

[jamesjo]

Karl,
You made an excellent choice over the Heritage.
They are ok, not in the class of the Sportsman.
Sportsman are well known for issues with the rear sight,if you shoot it, be sure you take a little screwdriver, and continually check the windage screws as you adjust the sights, and keep them tight.
When you get them set, take out one side and put a drop of blue loctite on the threads, put it back in, and repeat other side.
This will save you trying to find a replacement sight later.
Trust me.
I have two 4" Sportsman models, one is unfired, one has been lightly fired.
So, I am lucky, I have one I will never shoot, and one ready to go.
I paid around $ 500 for the unfired piece, quite a bit less for the other. so, you can see why Jim was curious., the prices are beginning to rival some of the mainstream makers!
Do you have the box?
They have truly reached collectible status.
There is no reason you can't fire it though.
H&R's were made to be shooters, and I think you will be pleased with the results!
just giving you a hard time about the offer, nice 999, enjoy it, what ever you decide.
You now have 2, which makes you officially afflicted, welcome to the family!!!!!!

[KDPalmer]

Ah! Well I appriciate the information. No I don't have the box. Thanks especially about the sight info I would have been really disappointed to potentially have lost a part. Thanks for the welcome, maybe I'll get some counciling for the affliction, but then I suppose ALL of man kind is afflicted in some way.
I also purchased a Colt Police Positive Special .38 at the time I got the Sportsman at the gun show, the .38 is from about 1920 to 25 and is in about the same condition as the .22 but I'm trying to get better grips for it.

[Jim Hauff]

KD,
JimJo answered for me - which is OK with me (we're both H&R collectors and have been collaborating for a number of years), and he's correct in interpreting my question. I've been tracking H&R firearm's prices for about 15 years - and have been especially diligent in updating RETAIL price ranges for the past four years for a published pricing guide. I've noticed the drastic upswing in selling prices for the SPORTSMAN series - all models, variations and conditions seem to have shown at least a 100% (2x) increase. I've wondered whether people are buying them primarily (especially the newer, unused or boxed examples) as investment/collectible pieces or as shooters. So far I'd say the answers have been about even. I own a "few" dozen pieces covering the range of production from circa 1932 - 1999, and in fact just added three more already this year, and I find that there are only a few that I would shoot and only one on a regular basis. Curiosity is a driving factor for collectors - that's how we learn, and then try to pass along that garnered info.
There is no cure to the collecting affliction - other than death or bankruptcy.
Welcome to the forum. Come back often.

[jamesjo]

Jim,
Sorry to hijack!
You know how my intended 2 line answer comment turns into a 3 paragraph rambling, mostly from info you provided my earlier!

[Jim Hauff]

Hey Jim,
No problem...I need all the help I can get!

[snider4]

Originally Posted by mbomb1

I was looking for information on a H&R Sportsman 9 shot single action revolver. It is blued with a checkered walnut grip, 6" Barrell and is in pristine condition only has been shot a dozen times or so. I do not have the original box. I have looked high and low and can not find anything else other than double action. It is about 50 or 60 years old. I am looking for the value. Is the single action more rare? I have been to gun shows and alot of dealers try to buy it for $100 - $150 going on book price for the double action. There was nothing in anyones books on the SA. They are very eager to purchase it but not for more than $150. Any help would be appreciated. Email is ggallet1@twcny.rr.com.

Thanks

I have 2 of those, one is the sportsman, mine is the double action. I found on the Internet (can't remember the site)but it was worth in the $400/$450 price range. It's in the safety box at the bank and can't remember the serial number but it started with "B" Hope someone has better information

[Dave B]

Originally Posted by LAWMANMIKEUTPD

Bill,

It's been a while since my last post, but I have (2) H&R 999's and I was wondering what year they were produced and possibly a value? #1 is 85 to 90% condition with a serial # P2329. #2 is 99% condition with a serial # AM55055. Any info would be appreciated. Gun #1 was the first gun I ever shot with my Grandfather @ the age of 4 (1970). It was handed down to me when he passed. I'll try to attach some pictures. Any info would be appreciated, Mike...

_________________________________________________________

I also have a 22 pistol that was the first gun I ever shot at age 8 with my grandfather. He left me the gun when he passed. It looks exacly like your #1 gun figuring #1 is the lower gun in the picture and mine is S/N R22222. I have not seen the letter "R" in the discusions yet. It's almost in as good of condition but can tell it was used by the grips and bluing worn at the tip of the barrel from being in the holster. The holster is very simular too.

I'll send a picture when I'm done re-tru-oling the grips. I have the emblems out right now. It's a nice gun to shoot. It meens alot to me and if re-oiling the grips causes value to go down... that's fine... I'd rather protect them so they last for my son and potential grandkids to enjoy. My grandfather also taught me how to re-finish wood using Tru Oil and it has been a pleasure doing these grips that he held over 30 years ago teaching me how to shoot. I hear him saying "many light coats and steel wool in between every coat... you can't rush it" and "never brag about firearms to your friends". I had to memorize all his shooting rules before I could handle the gun.

Dave

[Dave B]

Originally Posted by b.goforth

serial number P2329 manufactured in 1954 and is a Second Model.
serial number AM55055 manufactured in 1974 and is a Third Model

MODEL 999 SPORTSMAN SECOND MODEL (NEW FRAME)-----------1953-1972
Top Break, Double Action, 22 Long Rifle Caliber, 9 shot, Blue Finish, Barrel Length 6 inches, Adjustable Sights
VALUE: NIB:=$425, 95%=$365, 60%=$195

MODEL 999 SILVER SPORTSMAN-------------------------------1963-1966
Top Break, Double Action, 22 Long Rifle Caliber, 9 shot, Chrome Finish, Barrel Length 6 inches only, serial number letter codes Z, AA, AB only
VALUE: (very seldom seen) 100%=$450 60%=$325

MODEL 999 SPORTSMAN THIRD MODEL (TRANSFER BAR IGNITION)-----------1973-1986
Top Break, Double Action, 22 Long Rifle Caliber, 9 shot, Blue Finish, Barrel Length 4 & 6 inches (4 inch not added until 1979, Adjustable Sights, In 1979 Only, the Model name was advertised as Model 999 Automatic-Ejecting and it was offered in that year only in 32 S&W Long caliber, 6 shot.
VALUE: NIB:=$425, 95%=$350, 60%=$175

MODEL 999 SPORTSMAN I OF 999 (TRANSFER BAR IGNITION)----1979-1986
Engraved with Fitted Wood Case, Top Break, Double Action, 22 Long Rifle Caliber, 9 shot, Blue Finish, Barrel Length 6 inches, Adjustable Sights
VALUE: Collector value only if unfired, with all original tags, manuals, commemorative medallion, wooden presentation case and cardboard box;
100%=$700+ if in other than described condition it is valued as the Model 999 3rd Model plus 20% premium for engraving.

bill

Bill,

I have one exacly like the lower gun in his picture and is SN R22222. It also has letters "P", "Y" and "U" stamped in the face were the grips cover.

Can you give me a date?

What do the single stamped letters meen?

Thank you.

Dave

[jamesjo]

Dave,
Unfortunately, expert bill Goforth passed away last year, and now expert Jim Hauff is also out of commission for the time being.
I can help you a little.
The "R" prefix of serial # = 1955 manufacture.
I cannot tell you what the letters under the grips are for.
Your 999 appears to be in very nice condition!!
I have 2 1955 models myself, both nice, but, not as clean as yours!!

1955 Sportsman Blue




1955 Sportsman chrome

[Dave B]

Thanks for sharing and including the pictures.

The post before in reply to LAWMANMIKEUTPD post was from me and tells a little story about my history with the gun if your interested.

I've had it for years and just reciently took it to the shooting range. I never gave it much thought on how it would shoot and found I really enjoy the gun for what it is on top of my personal attachment.

I'll post a better pic of mine once I put the grips back on.

I would love to get my son a matching gun. He has a freind with two matching short barrel 22 H&R Sportsman with dual holster and belt. I have not seen them yet but seem to be turning into an H&R Spotsman fan and will buy if I can.

If you ever want to let yours go, let me know. It is a nice looking gun.

Thanks again

[jamesjo]

Dave B,
I have a pair of 4" barrel Sportsman also.
Both are of 1980 manufacture.
I is unfired, 1 has been fired only 9 times, I bought it as unfired also, but, had to try it out.

1980 Sportsman with after market Jay Scott grips





Factory grips

[retriever]

Hello to all..new member here. I just acquired my first H&R. It is a sportsman model 999 with the vented rib. Serial number is AT 029xxx. The gun looks as if it has never been fired and comes with original box and papers. Can anyone tell me where I can find manufacture date for this revolver and approximate value? I wish I could post photos but I will have to spend Some time on that. Thanks in advance...RETRIEVER

[Jim Hauff]

retriever,
'AT' prefix = 1979. If NIB and never fired, current RETAIL value will range from $450 - $500 depending upon the market - SPORTSMAN prices have been on the rise for the past few years and show little sign of slacking off.

[JoeKC]

Jim and Jim

I've thoroughly enjoyed reading this thread and thank you in advance for any help you might offer in narrowing down the date of manufacture of my Sportsman. I believe it is a sixth variation but would like to narrow the date further if possible. It has a serial number of 6974x. The numbers on the frame and above the cylinder all match.

It has the safety ring around the cylinder and has two patents stamped into the cylinder. The firing pin is on the hammer. Cylinder release is a button just in front of the cylinder. It's hard to see in the last picture, but it also has an "O" stamped in the frame at the lowest point in handle on the left side.

Your thoughts on a general value would also be treaty appreciated. I've no plans to sell her, but would like your thoughts.

Again, thank you in advance for any help or thoughts you might offer. - Joe

[Jim Hauff]

JoeKC,
Welcome to the forum and THANKS for adding your data to my base. I concur with your ID - 1st Model and what we're calling the 6th Variation, it has all the standard "features" found at that time (7th Var. is merely a change to plastic monogrip and the use of the "letter code" serialization system - all else is the same.) The 'O' stamped into the grip frame is apparently an internal inspection stamp - sometimes up to three letters will be found stamped there and sometimes on the right side also - significance,at this time is unknown.
I'm still lacking "verified/verifiable" dates of assembly or inspection for the 60K and 70K serial series - so the best I can do right now is estimate 1937 - '38 time period.
Your gun, from the photos looks to be in high V.Good to low Excellent condition. As to RETAIL value - I'm currently seeing these pre WW2 guns - in that condition range - selling in the $375 to $425 range - depending upon the market in the area and on the on-line auction sites.
From my experience shooting SPORTSMAN pieces ranging in age from 1933 - '34 to the mid 1990's - I find the older ones to have better inherent accuracy and finer action work - probably because each one was hand fitted and honed and then TEST FIRED on an H&R proprietary gun rest for accuracy BEFORE being boxed for sale. Current research in period printed books - indicates this was the common practice back then - that and the "special" rifling machine H&R developed for the USRA Single Shot Target pistol and also used on their Models 999 DA and M199 SA.
Nice gun - shoot it, you'll like it.

[JoeKC]

Jim

Thank you! I appreciate your input and thoughts. You're providing a great service to those that enjoy these H&R firearms. Thank you for carrying on the work that Mr Goforth and others started.

It was a great pleasure to find this early Sportsman. I like many others, shot a H&R pistol when was a kid. My father (who was born in 1937) let me shoot his 922, which was given to him by his father. That little 922 is showing its age, but still going strong, and still in the family. Happy Easter. - Joe

[Jim Hauff]

Joe,
You're welcome - glad to share.

[Bluegrass]

Hello Jim, I see your not very far from me here in the LV.
I thought I would help advance your data base with info on my Sportsman specimen.
Seems it's a mid 37 to 38 year according to your list of mfgers info.
2 Pat #, ser 456xx, cylinder last 3 numbers match, cylinder has an outer rim, front sight is adjustable, rear sight is adjustable, fires off the hammer and small left side cylinder lock and 6 " barrel.
I purchused it about 1967. It's about my same age +/-.
Hope the photos do it justice as I believe it to be in very good conditon for it's age according to what I see on this board.
Good luck and glad your here to offer infor in these pieces of history.

[Bluegrass]

Here are a couple more images to round out this peice.

[Jim Hauff]

Bluegrass,
Howdy neighbor.
Thanks for the SPORTSMAN data! Your piece fits into the post March 1936 era with the two patent numbers - probably mid year from the numbers I'm seeing. It's the "standard" 1st Model 6th Variation. Looks to be in EXC. condition. RETAIL value - as I've estimated before is a bit lower for these older guns (even though they are, IMHO, better shooters than the newer ones, is in the $375 to $425 range. I hope you take some time to give it a work out at the range. Thanks for the kind words. I'm doing my best to promote the SPORTSMAN for what it truly is/was.

[Bluegrass]

Thank you again Jim.
It has been used in the past for target and general carry during small game season but does't get much use lately.
How this all come about was on Sunday my son brought to my attention a back page article in the latest issue of Trader mag. about these break tops that started me looking for the specific info and so here we are.
Good luck.

[Jim Hauff]

Bluegrass,
You're most welcome. And good luck to you, too!

[WestPacSailor]

I recently inherited an H&R Sportsman Double Action and was hoping the members here could help me out with some information about the age and value of the gun.

The gun was left to me by my wife's grandfather. Before his passing he stated that he acquired the gun in either 1940 or 1941, so I'm assuming it was manufactured in the late 1930s. The serial number is 38###. There are also two small patent numbers on the side of the cylinder, 203463 & 490473. I could be mistaken on the second number as it is partially obscured by a rust pit. The grip appears to be real wood. Also, there is a small, spring-loaded tab inside the rear of the trigger guard. What is the purpose of that?

As you can see in the photo, the gun is in rough shape, but it shoots straight so I'll probably hang on to it. My kids like to shoot and I think this will be a good target pistol for them.

Thank you in advance for any information.

[Jim Hauff]

WestPacSailor,
You have a 1st Model SPORTSMAN 999 6th Variation. The frame was most likely made and numbered sometime in 1934-'35, but the final assembly was made after March of 1936 (two patent dates on cylinder indicate this.)
The "little tab inside the trigger guard" is the single action sear release lever. Being a true Double Action - that gun was also capable of Single Action firing. The SPORTSMAN revolvers from that time frame were/are very accurate - each gun was tested for accuracy and function before being boxed for retail sale.
Enjoy it - your kids should be thrilled - single action pull from factory was set between 2 1/2 and 3 lbs.

[WestPacSailor]

Thank you, Jim. That's exactly what I was looking for. Since I intend to keep this gun and pass it down, I'm going to look into getting it refinished. Hopefully, it will last another 75 years.