H&R Model 1904 question

[Gaucho Gringo]

Hi

I just bought an H&R Model 1904 .32 S&W revolver that is in good condition. The one question I have is the cylinder supposed to freewheel when the hammer is all the way down? When cocked the bolt come up and locks the cylinder tight. I remember reading somewhere that the cylinder on some guns are supposed to freewheel. Trying to find out if this is one of them or something is broken. The nickle finish on this gun is one of the best I have ever personally seen.

 

[Old Fuff]

I just bought an H&R Model 1904 .32 S&W revolver that is in good condition. The one question I have is the cylinder supposed to freewheel when the hammer is all the way down?

Yes it is.

The H&R Model 1904 is about the least expensive revolver you can make, which is about the only good thing you can say about it. In 1909, Sears, Roebuck & Co. sold them by mail order for $1.44 plus postage. At the same time a Colt Single Action Army .45 would have set you back $13.50.

 

[murdoc rose]

yep yep they do that

 

[Onward Allusion]

Gaucho Gringo
H&R Model 1904 question

Like the others said, that's the way they're suppose to be. Believe it or not, those H&R's are becoming more collectible, especially the ones in good condition. I have a couple of those mint condition H&R's and Iver Johnsons sitting in a safety deposit box. However, they will never be as collectible as S&W's or Colts. How about a pic?

 

[Gaucho Gringo]

Here are the pictures

 

[murdoc rose]

They are collectable because they are cheap,common,nearly unlimited variant's and all around cool. A great way to start getting into vintage firearms but rarely is it advised to actually fire one. If I had to vote the same thing may have been said when they where new.

 

[Onward Allusion]

That's in good shape. As long as it times and locks properly, I'd shoot it. Although I would not shoot 32S&W Long (what it is chambered for), I wouldn't hesitate shooting 32S&W Short (if you can still find 'em) from it.

 

[Gaucho Gringo]

I have 5 boxes of Magtech .32 S&W short that I recently bought for my Iver Johnson top break. I bought the ammo to shoot and to have a supply of brass to reload when I shot it up. It cost me around $23.00 a box which is about the lowest I have seen for .32 S&W short ammo. New brass is not to be found. I have checked every place I can think of and came up none to be had. I now have 3 guns that will shoot .32 S&W short, an Iver Johnson top break, the H&R 1904 I just bought and the conversion cylinder for my Uberti Baby Dragoon. 250 rounds of ammo for 3 guns is not that much. I wish I could find some more brass.