Not a Sportsman, but rather a Model 939 Ultra "Side-Kick" made in 1958 (the first year of production). The closeup shot shows the spring loaded button at the rear of the hammer which when pushed in releases the swing out cylinder. This button is a feature not found on any other H&R.
Other details include an aluminum ventilated rib and machine turning on the sides of the hammer (albeit subdued). The action is silky smooth. Like the Sportsman, clearly this was intended to be a a revolver that would appeal to a more sophisticated customer than did the company's generally more utilitarian offerings.
As illustrated by the advertisement, an integral key operated safety lock became available the year following this model's introduction. Some examples will be found with a "VU" serial number prefix which has been interpreted to indicate guns originally manufactured in 1958 but retrofitted with the new safety lock prior to their distribution in 1959.
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SWCA #590
"Colligo ergo sum"
Last edited by Goony; 10-09-2023 at 12:37 AM.
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