Another day, another old gun - anybody know anything about old H&R break-tops?

[3beansalad]

Some quick research refers to similar revolvers as either 1896 Hammerless, a Model 775 or a Model 860. Of course Numrich doesn't have any of those models listed, but this looks promising. (https://www.gunpartscorp.com/gun-man...-sf-hammerless)
One source said the serial number is under top rail and visible with cylinder removed. I also saw some mention of the possible chambering being 22, 32 or 38.
Good luck in your search.

[Martinjmpr]

Some quick research refers to similar revolvers as either 1896 Hammerless, a Model 775 or a Model 860. Of course Numrich doesn't have any of those models listed, but this looks promising. (https://www.gunpartscorp.com/gun-man...-sf-hammerless)
One source said the serial number is under top rail and visible with cylinder removed. I also saw some mention of the possible chambering being 22, 32 or 38.
Good luck in your search.

Bingo.

So I did some internet searching and found out the way to remove the cylinder. Serial number was under there, 20XXXX. As with many old guns that had hand fitted parts, the cylinder also bears the last 3 numbers of the SN. I also pulled the hard rubber grips off and the SN is stamped into the side of the frame under the grip as well.

Still trying to identify the age. From what I've seen starting in 1905 they stamped the caliber on the barrel and that indicates the gun is safe to use with smokeless powder. No caliber apparently indicates Black Powder only, caliber would be .32 S&W also called .32 short.