H&R Handy Gun: A Smoothbore Pistol Killed Off by the NFA

Published on July 19, 2025
Duration: 1:08

This expert-level entry details the Harrington & Richardson Handy-Gun, a firearm whose production was effectively ended by the 1934 National Firearms Act (NFA). The NFA's classification of short-barreled shotguns and the creation of the 'Any Other Weapon' (AOW) category, which specifically included smoothbore pistols, directly led to the demise of designs like the Handy-Gun. The entry covers its origins, design specifications, and the legal framework that impacted its existence.

Quick Summary

The Harrington & Richardson Handy-Gun, a smoothbore pistol designed for personal protection, was discontinued due to the 1934 National Firearms Act (NFA). The NFA's prohibition of short-barreled shotguns and its creation of the 'Any Other Weapon' category, which specifically included smoothbore pistols, led to the cessation of its production.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: H&R Handy-Gun and NFA Impact
  2. 00:09Origins: From Shotgun to Handy-Gun
  3. 00:16Design and Purpose: Pistol Grip, Barrel Length, Calibers
  4. 00:25Caliber and Choke Specifications (.410/12mm)
  5. 00:30Sights and Action: Single-Shot, Manual Cocking
  6. 00:45NFA Prohibitions: Short-Barreled Shotguns and AOW Category

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the Harrington & Richardson Handy-Gun?

The H&R Handy-Gun was a smoothbore pistol introduced in 1924, created by modifying a break-action shotgun with a pistol grip and an 8-inch barrel, offered in .410 or 28 gauge for personal protection.

Why was the H&R Handy-Gun discontinued?

The Handy-Gun's production was effectively ended by the 1934 National Firearms Act (NFA). The NFA prohibited short-barreled shotguns and created the 'Any Other Weapon' category, which specifically included smoothbore pistols like the Handy-Gun.

What are the key design features of the H&R Handy-Gun?

It features a pistol grip, an 8-inch smoothbore barrel, a brass bead front sight, a receiver channel rear sight, and operates as a single-action, single-shot firearm with a spring-loaded ejector and manually cocked hammer.

Related News

All News →

More 2nd Amendment & Law Videos You Might Like

More from Forgotten Weapons

View all →