H & R Sportsman

[mushu]

Hi. I have a Sportsman .22 long rifle, double action. The only markings I can find other than on the barrel is theres an x 144 on the butt. Does anyone know if I'm just missing the serial number? Thanks in advance

[Insulator300]

I am pretty new to the H&R scene but I believe that the prefix of X with the serial number would mean it was manufactured in 1961. Magnum 32 (a very wise man indeed) once told me that beginning in 1940 the Sportsman prefixed starting with A changing each year until Z in 1963 (skipping O and Q). I have a B which makes it a 1941 pistol. If I am off on this someone please let me know! I hope this helps. Enjoy, they are fantastic .22s.

[Insulator300]

Apparently I am not such a wise man... the member who gave me that info was 32 Magnum, not Magnum 32. Sorry friend!

[mushu]

Thank you for the information. I was getting confused because 144 didn't really seem like a serial number to me...

[32 Magnum]

Insulator300 is correct, X=1961. FYI - the serial number (in most cases minus the letter prefix) will also be found on the left side of the grip frame (under the left grip panel), under the top strap and the last three digits will also be found on the breech face of the cylinder. If all three or four match up, you piece is all original.