~ Harrington & Richardson (H&R) Model 940 Revolver Gardner Mass USA .22 Cal - EU Deactivated ~
The Harrington & Richardson (H&R) Model 940 is a .22 caliber double-action revolver manufactured by H&R Inc., a prominent American firearms company based in Gardner, Massachusetts. Known for producing affordable and reliable firearms, H&R catered to a wide range of users, from casual shooters to hunters and those seeking personal protection.
Historical Context
Manufacturer Overview:
H&R Inc. was founded in 1871 and became known for producing a variety of revolvers, shotguns, and rifles, often aimed at budget-conscious buyers.
The Model 940 is part of H&R’s extensive line of revolvers, which were popular in the mid-20th century for their simplicity and reliability.
Production Era:
The Model 940 was produced from the mid-20th century (likely the 1950s through the 1970s) during a time when revolvers were still widely favored for personal defense and recreational shooting.
It was designed as an affordable, entry-level firearm for target practice and small game hunting.
Description of the H&R Model 940
Caliber:
Chambered for .22 Long Rifle (LR), a versatile and widely available rimfire cartridge known for its low cost and minimal recoil.
Action:
Double-action revolver: Allows the user to fire by either manually cocking the hammer (single-action mode) or pulling the trigger directly (double-action mode).
Smooth and reliable trigger mechanism, typical of H&R’s revolver designs.
Cylinder:
9-shot cylinder: Offers a higher capacity than many other revolvers in its class, making it ideal for extended shooting sessions without frequent reloading.
Swing-out cylinder design for easier loading and unloading.
Barrel:
Available in various barrel lengths, typically ranging from 2.5 to 6 inches, catering to different preferences for portability or accuracy.
Rifled barrel for improved accuracy with .22 LR ammunition.
Construction:
Material: Steel frame and barrel, often with a blued finish for corrosion resistance and aesthetics.
Grips: Fitted with checkered wooden or synthetic grips, depending on the production year and variant.
Sights:
Fixed front blade sight and a rear notch sight, providing a simple and effective aiming system for short to medium ranges.
Markings:
The revolver is marked with “H&R INC. Gardner Mass USA” on the barrel or frame, along with the model number (940) and caliber designation (.22 Cal).
Significance and Legacy
Utility and Popularity:
The Model 940 was a practical firearm for casual shooters, beginners, and those seeking an inexpensive yet reliable revolver.
Its 9-shot capacity and .22 LR chambering made it a favorite for plinking, small game hunting, and informal target shooting.
Affordability:
H&R revolvers, including the Model 940, were marketed as budget-friendly options without sacrificing reliability, making them accessible to a wide audience.
Collectibility:
While not considered rare or highly valuable, the Model 940 holds appeal among collectors of vintage H&R firearms and those who appreciate mid-20th-century American revolvers.
