Early 1940s pistols ( 410 pistol )

Question
I have a 410 pistol that has been passed down from my Grandfather to my Father and now to me. Do you know anything about a 410 pistol that was made somewhere around 1943, and who the maker was? My father does not know and I want to find out. All I know about the gun is that it was called a "handy" gun. The only thing my father could tell me is that there were only approx. 100 of them made.

Answer
Hi Stephen,

Over the years there were several 410 handguns available. IE. There was a 410 Stevens pistol that was made between 1924 and 1934. Also, Marble made the Marble Game Getter beginning in the 1920's. Often times the term "Handy-Gun" is used to describe any hand held 410 although I doubt that this is correct.

What I can confirm for you is that Harrington & Richardson manufactured a "Handy Gun" in 410 ga. They were originally made with barrels that were less than 18" long ( which the National Firearms Act of 1934 brought a stop to) beginning in 1921 and had an overall length of 26".

They were actually made in both 410 and 28ga. the 410 had a 2.5" chamber except for about 2000 which were made with 3" chambers. The total production was approximately 54,000. The guns were made in several variations including some with a detachable stock. They were made with finishes in blue, nickle, and some were "case hardened".

You must be very careful concerning "legal issues" as it relates to this gun. If you possess one of these with a barrel less than 18" you would be in violation of the Gun Control Act of 1968 and/or the National Firearms Act of 1934.

I am not a attorney so I'll not attmept any further discussion concerning the legal aspects of it. However I felt obligated to mention it in my response for your information to use as you may.

Thank you for your question.

Sid Lark