Instructions/parts for old break tops.

[coffeync3]

I have a few old break top revolvers lying in the bottom of the gun safe. Some work just fine, some don't. Being now officially retired, I thought I might try my hand at repairing a couple of these just for the experience. Please note* I am not a gunsmith and will never pretend to be so. However, I do have some experience in mechanics. A local gunsmith refuses to work on these (H&R, Iver Johnson, ETC However, he has offered to check them out for safety if I can get them up and running. Problem is, I can not find a source for instructions,diagrams or parts. I would rather locate these items on my own than to bother him. Any suggestions or hints will be greatly appreciated.

 

[Cardboard_killer]

The problem with all those top break guns is that there are a lot of variations. I'm selling a H&R Sportsman right now on gunbroker that was made in 1937-1939. The Sportsman had been around since 1931 when this one was made and it was already the 5th variation of the first model. Expect to have to make your own replacement parts.

The Gun Digest Book of Firearms Assembly/Disassembly is a good place to start. They have bare bones instructions for a number of old break opens.

 

[trap4570]

In the past I was able to get parts from Numerich. The one thing I learned about these top breaks is they are not rugged at all. Fitting new parts to worn and usually abused parts is almost impossible. If you are determined to attempt repairs then I would replace all internal parts if possible. Usually they have a limited life after repair anyway. Good luck.