H&R 38 Defender

[moosedog]

I've had a few of these from time to time in 2 inch, never owned a 4 incher, but when I saw the like new condition on this I couldn't pass. I was surprised at how smooth the trigger is, and check that Gold Bead front sight. No letter prefix on the serial number puts it at around 1939-40 range.
Any Harrington & Richardson Defender or New Defender fans here?

 

[desi2358]

Nice gun. I like the old H&R revolvers, have owned a couple of the Defenders in the past. Solid, reliable revolvers.

 

[bigmtnman]

That is quite a rare gun .....because of that LIKE NEW condition. Very nice indeed. I'd love to have at some tin cans on the prairie with it

 

[moosedog]

Here's a 2 incher I had.

 

[DWalt]

A little information on the H&R Defenders here. The latest made in .38 S&W was the Model 925. Pretty much the same as the WWII era Defenders, but the 925 has plastic birds head grips. Most 925s that I have seen have 2.5” barrels, but they were also made with 4” barrels. I have one of those. Defender 38

 

[Buick]

I'm always on the lookout for one. I have a large stash of Canadian .38/200 service ball that I'd like to try in a 925.

 

[DWalt]

I'm always on the lookout for one. I have a large stash of Canadian .38/200 service ball that I'd like to try in a 925.

One issue with the 925 and probably the 25 is he rear sight. The windage adjustment screws will loosen with firing. I have mine glued in place with Super Glue. Another problem is that the original nylon mainspring strut needs to be replaced with an all-steel version. Otherwise, it is a fairly decent gun. It shoots a good group after you adjust the sights. Except for the .38 S&W cartridge and its 5-shot cylinder, the 925 would make a good carry piece. Even with those shortcomings it would probably be adequate in most defensive situations.