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Just got back earlier this week from a few days at Panama City Beach Florida. From the enclosed photos you can see that I kept company with my favorite Enfield No. 2 MK I* and a break-top, Webley-looking, Harrington & Richardson Model 925 snubbie. Both chambered in .38S&W and both charged with 200-grain LRN .38S&W ammo. This ammo was carefully reloaded, staying as close to the old .380-200 loading specs as possible. For self defense purposes and off duty missions, I very much, like this round. The pictured H&R is better known as "The Defender", and was manufactured by H&R for many years, with production halt in the mid-80's, I believe.

With my familiarity with both arms, and described ammo, I considered my beautiful bride of 35-years and me, well guarded! You can see from the Enfield photo, a book on The Zulu War, a classic wrote by Mr. David Clammer, and a super read for me, while sitting, looking upon the ocean sunset in the afternoons. I love a good book, fine cold adult beverage, and a ringside seat to some beauty, that only "GOD" could create in these magnificent sunsets at Panama City Beach. Of course, the company of my best friend and mate, Miss Charlotte, and this made for a trip to remember! I had also carried some firearms data in the form of old copied gun magazine articles concerning the Enfield, Webley, and H&R firearms that made for a fine learning experience, while in Florida.

I purchased the H&R 925 from a gun show several years ago. The "looks" captured me because it looked for the world like an arm that Sherlock Holmes or Dr. Watson might carry. Maybe even British secret agent, Miss Emma Peel of the 1960's tv show, The Avengers. She surely could have packed such an arm in her adventures with partner Steed. She actually carried small frame Webley Revolvers in the show, along the .320 caliber chambering with a nicely engraved Webley MK III for the shows introduction segment. In other words my friends, this H&R Model 925 brought back many wonderful memories of British personalities and firearms they carried or might have. I do hope you enjoy the pictures and post.

David

I have the same H&R Defender, except for mine having the somewhat more scarce 4" barrel. I remember paying about $100 for it back in the early 2000s, in like-new condition. From its SN, mine was made in 1964, so it is now a C&R. It has a rear sight which is adjustable for windage and a front sight adjustable for elevation. It is close to being my favorite Fun Gun and shoots groups about as tight as any other revolver I have. I did need to replace the hammer spring strut, as the original plastic (I think Nylon) one broke. Numrich has them made of metal, and it is a very simple swap. If yours has the plastic one, I'd advise ordering a new metal one. I shoot .38 S&W handloads a little hotter than factory. That bird's head grip looks strange, but is very ergonomic.

One thing I forgot - the rear sight has a tendency to loosen. I put a drop of Super Glue on each windage screw to prevent that.

You don't see these very often today. I'd advise anyone interested to grab one if at a good price if you don't mind the .38 S&W caliber. They will probably never have much collector value, but are great and well-made shooters. They ride well stuck in your waistband under your belt, no holster needed, almost like they were designed to be carried that way. I don't carry it for personal protection, but it would certainly work very well in that role with good handloads.

Regarding the British angle, H&R made a similar model (but in .32) for the London Metropolitan Police during WWII called the "Bobby." They are exceptionally rare, virtually all having been destroyed after the war. BTW, it was Mrs. Emma Peel, not Miss.

Was there a similar model made in .32 SW Long?

David, as usual a great post. Sounds like an idyllic and well earned vacation at your favorite get away spot. Particularly after your recent adventure in meeting the Georgia pistol qualifications!!! I certainly enjoyed seeing some of your favorite sidearms. I am still enjoying reading bothe the Enfield book that you recommended, as well as "The Handgun" volume recommended by Texas Star!

Best Regards, Your friend, Les

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SWCA 3084, SWHF 495, PGCA 3064