Odd Shotgun markings

[Dr.Rob]

A buddy of mine tells me he inherited his Granfather's shotgun, a standard old H&R Single shot .410...

However the barrel is marked. .410-44 caliber.

Does this thing fire 44 specials or what?

Just curious because I've never seen one marked that way.

 

[Dave McCracken]

One of the old 44 cartridges, and I do not know which one, fit a 410 closely enough it could be fired safely. Not recommended these days.

 

[Dr.Rob]

I didn't recommend finding out the hard way.

I might be crazy but I ain't stupid. I'm not even sure if it's a 3 inch chamber.

My guess is it's a late 1920's-early 30's vintage gun, it has a few spots of surface rust that need to be cleaned up but the bore is bright and shiny.

Anyone know where to check serial numbers on H&Rs so I can tell him when it was made?

Rob

 

[mnrivrat]

If I recall correctly the gun would fire the old 44-40 round. It most certainly is not a 3 inch chamber .

If I get a chance I will varify the 44-40 reference.