H&R 999 Sportsman 22LR Top Break Revolver

[@paulross9287]

What an extremely well thought out design. So of course no one makes a similar gun today.

[@craigfinley2507]

It sure is a beautiful design nobody make make that barrel like that it's it's slick ain't it

[@Olmanstrength]

That front sight is indeed adjustable for elevation. That is what the screw above the muzzle is for.

[@MrRabit1993]

I bought my H & R Sportsman from my neighbor in 1960. He bought the gun new in 1938. I have fired thousands of rounds through it. I do however have a problem with the ejector as it will not snap back in place anymore. The gun is rust free and has the original finish and is very good looking.

[@olhippie1]

A couple information errors in this video review. A blow to the hammer on the 999 will not fire the cartridge lying beneath the hammer, even on the pre-transfer bar model. The trigger must be pulled fully to the rear before the internal mechanism will allow the hammer to move far enough forward for the hammer's firing pin to strike the rimfire case's primer. Also loading is meant to be done only when the barrel has bee opened fully to it's stopping point so that the ejector plate has snapped back flat to the cylinder surface,facilitating easy loading without any danger of tearing skin on a finger or thumb.

[@tlm3574]

Another unique feature is if you're topping off the cylinder you point the gun down and it will eject the empties but the unfired rounds drop back in place. Neat!

[@jutde]

I own one and I love it! Mine has a transfer bar style firing pin so it's safe to carry fully loaded, but I don't know when they started doing that exactly. One word of caution for people looking to get one: Keep an eye on the rear sight screws! Mine loosened and I almost lost the rear sight blade.

[@Skfoster64]

Have my dad's Model 777 Ultra Sportsman. Single action only. When you break it open, it only comes out far enough to eject spent shells! It will retain unfired shells. Treasure, still shooting 80 years after production date of 1938! Thank you!

[@knight0334]

It's a revolving pistol. The use of the term "pistol" for handguns that had chambers incorporated into the barrel is only about 80 years old and used mostly by Americans. The term "pistol" is 600-700 years old and refers to firearms meant to be held and fired with one hand. Revolvers, including cartridge revolvers, were called pistols long before the modern terminology was established.

[@TheCgOrion]

I have an almost mint 1950 999 6" barrel that I got from my Grandfather. It's a beautiful gun, and although I've heard that some have heavy triggers, this one has an excellent, light, predictable pull. I'm warring with myself between shooting it, and keeping it with such little handling or usage.

[@Howdy76]

I have a 999, Like New in Box. Way too nice to shoot

[@thomasbaker4657]

elevation adjustment is on front of muzzle just below sight. it's very clever in design. an excelent firearm .

[@CPHannigan]

My dad had one of these. Same model as this. I loved shooting it as a kid.

[@stuntmanmike37]

I love my 999 Sportsman! Mine has original H&R medallion grips, and ventilated barrel rib.

[@WAQWBrentwood]

My father had (maybe Has..) one with this single grip style. Back in the 1970s, I spent many Saturdays ventilating pop cans with it.(.22s being almost as cheap as BBs then 😀). As a lefty I appreciate top break revolvers!

[@fylinghigh459]

I was thinking that top break would be nice as a lefty myself, i think what my next gun is...

[@yearzero974]

These are very similar in design and operation to the early S&W top break revolvers. Today I bought one just like this one, better blueing, $200 otd at a local shop. It's well made and finished, a shame they don't get the respect that they deserve. They are easier to reload than the swing out Smiths, much easier than the Colt SAA type revolvers. That was the appeal of the Schofield revolvers, though ammo incompatibility doomed it. The front sight is adjustable for elevation, the rear for windage.

[@jonathanmcgowan7746]

These are great little units. My grandpa left me his and it is in near mint condition. Shoots great and is accurate as can be.

[@tlm3574]

The later models had a hammer block safety. No empty chambers. Full nine-shot.

[@knight0334]

It was because the original H&R went out of business in 1986. It was refounded later in 1991, then survived until it was bought out by Marlin. Then just a few years ago Remington bought Marlin(which held H&R).

[@________________6325]

what a beautiful revolver I want one😭

[@359badger]

Wow sootch, Boy I miss these guns, they are a hoot to shoot. Wouldn't mind picking one up for old time sake, they truly have a character all thier own

[@chapiit08]

The front sight is not fixed but is adjustable in height via the screw over the muzzle. Another fact: HKS makes 9 shot speedloaders that work with this gun. This gun was called the Sportsman and the number designation 999 was added back in the fifties, I believe when they started with the two piece grip, and was used along with the Sportsman name until the end of production.

[@bowlofrice8]

chapiit08 the 999 is double action the 199 is single all of the early ones had one piece grips wasn't until 70s or 80s that they started the two piece.

[@okieheadhunter]

very good . one thing on the mod 999 the front site is adjusts for elevation. if you seen the screw in the end ot the muzzle this can be screwed in or out to raise or lower the front site. very good review

[@stevenspaziani9159]

I acquired my 999 when my dad passed away in 88 and he acquired it from his brother sometime in the 50's my dad traded his brother a tennis racket for it and I don't believe it was ever shot after that trade, my dad wasn't really a gun guy. It has a really low serial number a K with3 numbers after it so I assume it was an early production gun and the best I could do looking up the serial number was it may have been made around 1948 ish. The gun is in beautiful condition and when not in use is well oiled and kept in a nice dry place and it is a nail driver. It is a super nice gun and H&R did a fantastic job with it.

[@walkinghorsejones]

I have one just like this one made in early 40s..love it

[@roadking99jokerst60]

I just bought a Sportsman today, one piece grip. It's front sight does the elevation using a screw just above the bore. It looks just like the one you are showing.

[@halreagan4076]

Do you know if the sportsman 999 has a safety ?

[@ericdixon8499]

Very informative, I just got one today, been looking at them for years, retired now and can plink more. Great post and Thanks!

[@Cfarkus]

My father has one of these, although it is in really rough shape, it will misfire if the hammer isn't pulled back, the centre part that pushes out the casings is totally broken so you have to pull the shells out with a knife, and the finish is all nasty

[@Benvenga]

Love your reviews man. Simple mans guide to life. Thats how I feel about all your vids! everythings simple and clear. Thank you!

[@stuntmanmike37]

That top break design is exactly the same as the old British Webley revolvers.

[@Goodsnout]

The hammer block safety is visible behind the trigger. Is it broken?

[@bobbarron6969]

The serial number on my Sportsman corresponds to 1940. It looks identical to the gun shown here. Unfortunately, mine was stored in a damp environment so I had it Cerakoted after some restoration work. Just below the front site is a tiny adjustment screw, so it is adjustable. It is a sweet shooter, very smooth and stable.

[@October32nd]

@tdunker7 Pythons are 1. Discontinued 2. Have problems after awhile where the cylinder doesn't line up with the hammer and barrel. But thank you for the suggestion,

[@EverettBaland]

I've had a few of the models, and added one weeks ago. Thanks for all the reports.

[@halreagan4076]

Do you know if the sportsman 999 has a safety ?

[@acrophobe]

im moving into a condo where i have to be very mindful of overpenetration in all directions. the space is so cramped, i don't want to chance bringing my shotgun or even a 9mm or .38. i wonder if a gun like this could serve in a home defense role?

[@AngeredKabar]

@acrophobe Believe it or not, M193 in an AR15 doesn't penetrate a whole lot of drywall. Don't use the wolf 55 grain because the jacket is very hard and zips through walls, but military spec 55 grain ammo like federal xm193 is usually stopped by two sheets of drywall.

[@marcleigh3298]

I need help/advice , I inherited an H&R , top break, 9 shot , 22 LR. Revolver. #1. It only has single action. The gun smiths say they can't fix it. ( The hammer won't stay cocked back ) #2. It's a "22 Special" from my Great Grandfather. ( I'm 60yrs. Old & he died before I was born.

[@Fknstud833]

I have one with a two-piece grip and it's a black.#A11478. any idea what year? Tks Rick

[@DougHinVA]

One I was sold for cheap is the full single-piece checkered grip type in very good shape and likely is all original but for 1 small part replaced by a gunsmith. Never fired it thus far...

[@fredherring4403]

Unholy excrement! Can't believe you reviewed this gun! I've been lookin' for the right 999 for years now. Awesome review!

[@jeremylay1694]

I'm looking for an additional cylinder for mine for target shooting..

[@daveybass655]

I had this same gun, it was my favorite. Mine was made in 49.

[@bufallobiff]

The latch (rear sight) will eventually get sloppy because the two dogs that it snaps over to lock it will wear. You'll know it when hot lead starts landing on your shooting hand. I built them up with silver solder and so far so good.....

[@craigfinley2507]

Can you shoot it in single action also

[@Born2RiffRock]

I have 2 one with its box in Excellent condition. I'd love to sell one but no website allows you to list a gun for sale or the ban your profile.

[@missouriprepper]

very cool I've got the same gun in my video AT THE RANGE it has two piece grips that I've still got, right now the grips you can see in the video are one's that I made out elk antler slabs.

[@benthere422]

I WANT IT, I WANT IT, I GOTTA HAVE IT!!!!! I just LOVE that top break style.

[@lookatyourhand9751]

I can't find what year mine were made. I have two H & R Arms .22 cal. double action breakover revolvers that I inherited from my father. One serial number starts with a "K" and has four digits after. The other starts with a "J" followed by four digits. Both have one piece grips that appear to be wooden. 6" barrels I believe. Both are 9 shot. Not sure what models these are. Wanting to find value but can't find model number on gun anywhere.

[@NovusChaoMundi]

Nice little wheel gun, I just bought a 22LR S & W

[@athappyhiker]

I have a H&R 999 in excellent condition except it was having the problem where after a cylinder or two of shooting when I'd break it open the cylinder would pop off the receiver post completely. I ordered the $6 replacement retaining spring from Gun Parts Corp. (Numrich) It is readily apparent that the factory original spring (which looks more robust than the replacement) was very worn down where there was barely any of the "hook" protruding through the cylinder post slot. The replacement spring has an actual hook to it that protrudes out farther. Replacement took 5 minutes. No binding. Operates smooth. Seems like it holds the cylinder on firmly. Will take it out to the range ASAP to give it a shooting test. When the cylinders get gunky from shooting the cases stick a bit which then puts upward pressure on the ejection star/rod. That new hook should keep enough tension to hold it in place. They are such cool revolvers. I paid more for mine than I planned ($400) but it's metal condition and bluing is perfect, and the 2 piece wood grips are in very good shape. The 999's double action trigger is pretty heavy, but the single action is crisp. Accurate enough. I also had to replace the hammer spring retainer plate when I first bought it. The original one was some plastic that had become brittle and broke the first time I shot it, but the replacement one from Numrich/Gun Parts Corp is steel and works perfect. A few more tips for 999 (and similar models) owners: the rear sight blades are notorious for their adjustment screws loosening and falling out; Loctite them after getting it to your desired POI. Also - never close the gun action without the cylinder in place. Apparently if you close it without the cylinder it will break the gun. I haven't tried to prove that. Lastly, if you want the locking action lever to stay tight for a long long time, don't snap it shut. Lift the locking lever over the two "ears" lugs, close it and put the top lever down. Snapping it over them while shutting the action will eventually wear them down to the point that the action is loose or it won't lock shut.

[@Hurricanepistol]

Where can I get a rear sight or at least the blade ? Son Baird on F B Is there a H&R club or FB page? If so how is it listed ? Please , I have a couple other H & R's Thanks

[@highrack]

I have a pre 1952 Sportsman 999. It has the polished nickel finish...or chromo, not sure which. I need another one piece grip though, the original was shaved down by my uncle for my aunt, since she had smaller hands. The gun is in descent shape, some wear around the cylinder. Do you know of where I can find a replacement one piece grip? I have Googled and find plenty of two piece but no one piece. Great Video, I will make one of mine and PM you the link.

[@robertcrowder2177]

Mine has an adjustable front site

[@jeremaibu6498]

Quisiera saber como funsiona uña inpulsora del tanvor de ese rrebolver

[@0570965]

I would pick it as a good choice for a beginner, I would have if I could start over

[@Magnageek]

Great review! Thank you! Have exactly the same gun, and I concur with everything you said. Wonder why H&R didn't put a hammer block safety of transfer bar on it?

[@dennishoppes3037]

Yours is pre war but you just said they were made from 1950-1986? That's not pre war

[@captain7290]

The build date on mine is 1941. The barrel is perfect and the blueing is good. Unfortunately I'm a old guy with no family and no close friends. And when I go it will likely go to the first person that finds it.

[@harryrainey6212]

$250, I wish, they running $300-500. I love the top break, I own a H&R .22 Special break action, 7 shot. Looking for a H&R Huntsman .22lr Revolver, 9 shot. A step up.

[@janetwilliams6472]

Looking to buy a H&R top break revolver with the vents at the top of the barrel. Where can I find one?

[@josuedebarros1743]

Como faço para conseguir um exemplar iguala esse ?

[@jeremylay1694]

I have a 1941 999 I inherited from my grandpa beautiful gun.. I did switch outvthe grip as the original was In beautiful condition so since thwyre once piece grip I purchaaed a cheap polymer black grip...i will say I like the look od the gun with the black grip but want to keep the original grip on original condition.

[@briandevries8115]

The auto eject was awesome.

[@jameskringlee8974]

check and see if there is a 1/2 cock hammer position as a carry safety. My 1931 H % R "22 SPECIAL" 9 shot has the 1/2 cock and does prevent pushing in the hammer.

[@Magnageek]

@logcabinlooms I'm interested in what you said about the firing pin, because I have the same gun, and it appears that mine CAN fire by hitting the back of the hammer even if the trigger is not pulled. Could mine be defective? Do you have any sources for more information on this? Thanks!

[@blank557]

A fine pistol that's accurate and a pleasure to shoot.

[@OpaKnows]

Cool looking pistol. I think it's just the right amount of unusual that it makes it collectible. Like you said, the gun has a great patina by way of the bluing. The extraction method seems to work beautifully. Great plinker!

[@furion..]

Now there's a pistol you don't want to get the model number upside down

[@spiritualawakenings6251]

I own several H&Rs, Iver Johnsons, and Allen & Hopkins revolvers of various calibers. All of which have steel frames as well as everything else being steel. So the statement about frames not being steel in lower end revolvers of the time period isn't true. True some were not case hardened or made of softer steel but just the same steel. Misconcepts come from those trying to be experts on everything from a quick Google search. Pot metal frames weren't really a standard until the 70s about the time these fine firearms were phased out in favor of cheaper manufacturing techniques and materials.

[@88GRENADE88]

I love the way the shells pop out, thats awesome. Keep up the great work Sootch

[@froggergoat]

This was the very first firearm I shot well over 30 years ago. I haven’t seen one since.

[@oirrognir5152]

Hi. I would like ask if how much if i sell my H&R 999? I have one..thnaks..

[@gordonhood6265]

The front sight is NOT fixed, the screw in the front of the barrel is for elevation adjustment. Thanks for the video.

[@garyr2650]

Would love to see you revisit this gun

[@dowdawg]

Not too sure about the info on this revolver?

[@markhenderson2896]

Front site is elevation adjustable rear is windage adjustable

[@joseantoniosandovalfunes2480]

Sorry Sir, I made a mistake the one that you show has the inscription on the side not on top

[@Scabota]

No two ways around a bad ass looking revolver. Even in 22LR.

[@joseantoniosandovalfunes2480]

Dear Sir, I have a pistol very similar at model 999 but I have no information about it, and the one that you show has the inscription on top not on the side. I want to fix it, but I have no diagram of it, could you help me please,could you send me more information about this pistol? I will apreciate your help.

[@October32nd]

Looking at getting a .357 any suggestions?

[@meloche1syndrome]

Where did you get that shirt?!?

[@jamesjohnson9668]

What kind of price would be gd for a used one

[@michaelbrooker1433]

I just paid $200 for one at a local shop.

[@Noteven0]

*I SEE THE PROBLEM Bro!* That Club Footed Lever Sitting Behind The Trigger. That is a Hammer Fall Safety. It Appears The One on That Pistol is Jammed to the Rear. It's Probably Missing The Little Half inch long Return Spring That Sits in the round Indention Behind It. If You Pull That Little Lever Forward You'll Find That it Will Stop The Hammer From Traveling Beyond The Zero Position and Bump Firing The Round Aligned in The Cylinder. The Whole Purpose of That Little Lever is To Stop The Hammer From Striking A Round Unless The Trigger is Actively Being Squeezed, Thus Disengaging The Safety Lever and Allowing The Hammer to Strike The Round Aligned in the Cylinder. I've Owned One of These Beauties Since I Was 10 Years Old, So I Speak From Experience Having Accidentally Bump-Fired a Round Through My Waterbed When I Was 12 LMAO!!

[@dafrogtoad]

Nice review as usual Sootch..cool to see the "not so common" firearms come out in videos.

[@RifleHunter100]

What's the trigger like on this as far as how smooth it is and weight(double and single)?

[@DougHinVA]

+Trevor Gannon mine is nearly unused.... excellent trigger single or double action. At $120 from estate sale, a deal !

[@joep8787]

Do they still make parts for it?

[@stevenveltrie1868]

I take mine to the range every time I go. Goal is to wear it out. LOL

[@perspicacity89]

I'm sure you know this, Sooch, and I hate to correct you, but pistols and revolvers both fall under the heading of handguns. "Pistol" and "revolver" are not interchangeable.

[@linkl_6641]

Yes they are ❤️ please look your facts up before saying them. Pistol has been a term for revolved before autoloaders were even invented

[@enriquehernandez7401]

Alguien me puede desir en donde traen el número de serie la mia no se le ve y no se si la puedo regitrar

[@aerodrew808a]

Where do you get that shirt?

[@bharatbhagwat]

I have one H&R 999 .22 LR, Pre 53, in Great Condition.

[@67mustangreg]

those are great...what are they worth? I'd prob pay like 150 for it.

[@bowlofrice8]

67mustangreg they run about 400 these days

[@fiddlejewel]

I cought that too. Watched it again to make sure I heard it right.

[@freedom-vc9wi]

Front sight is not fixed the screw in front is for elivation -back sight has windige elivation only👍🏻

[@gmodesike]

about how much is the one you're reviewing worth?

[@CrucibleXProductions]

@sootch00 Do the 38. Defender from H&R Please

[@mattacosta2370]

how much should i pay for one?

[@naughahyde]

That is a Sportsman but not a 999. The Sportsman was made from 1932-1986 with the 999 designation starting in 1953. xdforty5 try Numrich for a sight blade.

[@steezysn0brdr]

Great gun. Fun to shoot, even more fun with speed loaders

[@melinda1971mari]

very nice revolver.

[@craigfinley2507]

Is all steel guns much better overall. A lot people are trying to get those old model s&w and H&R because they are all steel like those old police 38 made back in 1930 and 40's. So you are saying that if you got a all steel gun it's better. Get back with me. Thanks