Description
Item Description
Bryant Ridge Co. is pleased to present this simplistic single-shot shotgun for a penny-start auction; this is the Harrington & Richardson (H&R) M48 Topper!
SPECIFICATIONS:
Manufacturer: Harrington & Richardson (H&R)
Model: M48 Topper
Serial: H77402
Caliber: 16 Gauge
Finish: Color Case Hardened Frame with Blue Barrel
Barrel Length: 30"
Optics/Sights: Bead Front
Stock/Grips: Smooth Hardwood Pistol Grip Stock and Forearm
Action: Single-Shot, Break-Action Shotgun
Markings: Standard
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Harrington & Richardson (H&R) Model 48 “Topper” represents one of the most iconic American single-shot shotguns of the mid-20th century, prized for its rugged simplicity, safety, and reliability. Introduced shortly after World War II, the M48 Topper became a staple in rural households, hunting camps, and farms across the United States. Built with a break-open action and a top lever release, the design emphasized ease of use, making it ideal for beginners and experienced shooters alike. The action was robustly constructed with steel components, paired with either a walnut or hardwood stock and forearm, often featuring a smooth oil finish and simple checkering. The shotgun was offered in several gauges—most commonly 12, 16, 20, and .410 bore—each equipped with a fixed choke and varying barrel lengths between 26 and 30 inches. The receiver’s case-hardened finish and blued barrel gave it both durability and classic styling, while the exposed hammer and rebounding firing pin system provided a layer of safety that became a hallmark of the H&R design. Mechanically, the M48 Topper is a study in efficient firearm engineering, blending minimalism with dependability. Its break-action allowed for easy loading and unloading, and the simple single-shot configuration encouraged careful, deliberate marksmanship—a quality that endeared it to hunters and target shooters alike. The Topper’s reputation for ruggedness meant it could withstand years of use in the field, serving as a trusted companion for small game hunting, pest control, or training younger shooters. Later iterations of the Topper lineage, such as the Model 58 and 88, built upon the M48’s foundational design but retained its essential character and appeal. Today, collectors and enthusiasts value the H&R M48 not only as a functional shotgun but also as a nostalgic representation of mid-century American craftsmanship. It embodies an era when firearms were built to be practical tools—affordable, dependable, and passed down from one generation to the next, earning its place as one of the great working-class shotguns of the 20th century.
Return Policy:
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Model: M48 Topper
Serial: H77402
Caliber: 16 Gauge
Finish: Color Case Hardened Frame with Blue Barrel
Barrel Length: 30"
Optics/Sights: Bead Front
Stock/Grips: Smooth Hardwood Pistol Grip Stock and Forearm
Action: Single-Shot, Break-Action Shotgun
Markings: Standard
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Harrington & Richardson (H&R) Model 48 “Topper” represents one of the most iconic American single-shot shotguns of the mid-20th century, prized for its rugged simplicity, safety, and reliability. Introduced shortly after World War II, the M48 Topper became a staple in rural households, hunting camps, and farms across the United States. Built with a break-open action and a top lever release, the design emphasized ease of use, making it ideal for beginners and experienced shooters alike. The action was robustly constructed with steel components, paired with either a walnut or hardwood stock and forearm, often featuring a smooth oil finish and simple checkering. The shotgun was offered in several gauges—most commonly 12, 16, 20, and .410 bore—each equipped with a fixed choke and varying barrel lengths between 26 and 30 inches. The receiver’s case-hardened finish and blued barrel gave it both durability and classic styling, while the exposed hammer and rebounding firing pin system provided a layer of safety that became a hallmark of the H&R design. Mechanically, the M48 Topper is a study in efficient firearm engineering, blending minimalism with dependability. Its break-action allowed for easy loading and unloading, and the simple single-shot configuration encouraged careful, deliberate marksmanship—a quality that endeared it to hunters and target shooters alike. The Topper’s reputation for ruggedness meant it could withstand years of use in the field, serving as a trusted companion for small game hunting, pest control, or training younger shooters. Later iterations of the Topper lineage, such as the Model 58 and 88, built upon the M48’s foundational design but retained its essential character and appeal. Today, collectors and enthusiasts value the H&R M48 not only as a functional shotgun but also as a nostalgic representation of mid-century American craftsmanship. It embodies an era when firearms were built to be practical tools—affordable, dependable, and passed down from one generation to the next, earning its place as one of the great working-class shotguns of the 20th century.
Return Policy:
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Shipping Details
Handgun Standard Shipping with Insurance $50.00
Long Gun Standard Shipping with Insurance $70.00
Any orders placed with magazines that are not compliant with your state, county, or city regulations will not ship with your order.
We strive to ship orders within the close of the following business day after payment and documentation is received.
Payment Details
We accept all forms of Payment including Personal Check, Business Check, PO Money Orders, Certified Check, Etc.
Please note we place a 7 business day hold on shipment, for all non-certified payments.
Payment MUST be received within 14 days.
Return Policy
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Additional Details
Our #1 priority is customer satisfaction. We want to build a lasting trust in the relationship with our customers, so that you will always look to us for all your firearms needs. If you have any issues with your transactions please contact us, and we will work with you to resolve any issues you may have. We greatly appreciate your trust in us and we look forward to fulfilling all your future firearm needs.
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