Description
Item Description
Bryant Ridge Co. is pleased to present this double-action revolver for a penny-start auction, this is the H&R (Harrington & Richardson) Vest Pocket Safety Hammer.
SPECIFICATIONS:
Manufacturer: H&R (Harrington & Richardson)
Model: Vest Pocket Safety Hammer
Serial: 197975
Caliber: .32 ACP
Finish: Nickel
Barrel Length: 1 1/8"
Optics/Sights: No Sights
Stock/Grips: Genuine Mother of Pearl
Action: Double-Action
Markings: Standard
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The H&R (Harrington & Richardson) Vest Pocket Safety Hammer with its exceptionally short 1 1/8-inch barrel is a striking example of ultra-compact early-20th-century American concealed-carry design, purpose-built for discreet personal protection at a time when pocket revolvers were everyday necessities rather than curiosities. Designed to be carried unobtrusively in a vest, coat pocket, or handbag, this diminutive top-break revolver emphasizes minimal size and simplicity, with the abbreviated barrel keeping the overall length extremely short and enhancing concealability above all else. The hinged top-break action allows the barrel and cylinder assembly to tip forward for rapid ejection of spent cases and straightforward reloading, a feature that was considered modern and efficient during its production era. The defining “Safety Hammer” system incorporates a folding or shielded hammer spur and internal safety elements intended to reduce the risk of accidental discharge while still allowing deliberate single-action operation, a thoughtful innovation for a revolver meant to be carried loose in clothing. Despite its small proportions, the steel frame and cylinder give the revolver a reassuring solidity, while simple fixed sights—often little more than a top-strap groove—reflect its intended use at close defensive distances. Grips were typically hard rubber or checkered panels shaped to maximize control within the constraints of the compact frame, though recoil can be brisk due to the light weight and short barrel. While ballistic performance is limited by the extremely short tube, the Vest Pocket Safety Hammer was never intended for precision or range work; instead, it embodies a practical philosophy of the era: a reliable, easily carried revolver that could be quickly brought into action when needed. Today, examples with the rare 1 1/8-inch barrel are especially appealing to collectors, as they represent the extreme end of pocket-revolver miniaturization and a fascinating snapshot of how manufacturers like Harrington & Richardson addressed the concealed-carry needs of their time.
Serial: 197975
Caliber: .32 ACP
Finish: Nickel
Barrel Length: 1 1/8"
Optics/Sights: No Sights
Stock/Grips: Genuine Mother of Pearl
Action: Double-Action
Markings: Standard
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The H&R (Harrington & Richardson) Vest Pocket Safety Hammer with its exceptionally short 1 1/8-inch barrel is a striking example of ultra-compact early-20th-century American concealed-carry design, purpose-built for discreet personal protection at a time when pocket revolvers were everyday necessities rather than curiosities. Designed to be carried unobtrusively in a vest, coat pocket, or handbag, this diminutive top-break revolver emphasizes minimal size and simplicity, with the abbreviated barrel keeping the overall length extremely short and enhancing concealability above all else. The hinged top-break action allows the barrel and cylinder assembly to tip forward for rapid ejection of spent cases and straightforward reloading, a feature that was considered modern and efficient during its production era. The defining “Safety Hammer” system incorporates a folding or shielded hammer spur and internal safety elements intended to reduce the risk of accidental discharge while still allowing deliberate single-action operation, a thoughtful innovation for a revolver meant to be carried loose in clothing. Despite its small proportions, the steel frame and cylinder give the revolver a reassuring solidity, while simple fixed sights—often little more than a top-strap groove—reflect its intended use at close defensive distances. Grips were typically hard rubber or checkered panels shaped to maximize control within the constraints of the compact frame, though recoil can be brisk due to the light weight and short barrel. While ballistic performance is limited by the extremely short tube, the Vest Pocket Safety Hammer was never intended for precision or range work; instead, it embodies a practical philosophy of the era: a reliable, easily carried revolver that could be quickly brought into action when needed. Today, examples with the rare 1 1/8-inch barrel are especially appealing to collectors, as they represent the extreme end of pocket-revolver miniaturization and a fascinating snapshot of how manufacturers like Harrington & Richardson addressed the concealed-carry needs of their time.
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.




