In 1871, Gilbert H. Harrington invented the top-breaking, shell-ejecting revolver and those using handguns had, for the very first time, had a firearm that was not only accurate and durable, but one that was easy to load and unload as well.

In order to produce his new invention, Harrington teamed up with one William A. Richardson. These men would do on to give their names to a firm (H&R) that would soon become synonymous with high-quality, technically superior revolvers, rifles and shotguns.

In 1893, they built a new factory in Worcester, Massachusetts which was expanded just a few short years later. This was where they developed a broad line of firearms, including their innovative - and hugely successful - single-barrel shotgun, which featured automatic shell ejection.

1932 saw the introduction of the H&R U.S.R.A. single-shoto target pistol. It was so accurate that the U.S. Army Pistol Team adpoted it.

With the onset of World War II, H&R answered the call to duty becoming a major producer of military firearms. It earned many commendations from the U.S. armed forces. The rifles it produced included the M1 Garand rifle. H&R was also the largest single manufacturer of the M-14, and one of the major producers of the M-16.

In November 2000, the assets of H&R 1871, Inc. were bought out by the Marlin Firearms Company. The company still retains its famous name and its products are marketed under the brand names of Harrington & Richardson, and New England Firearms. H&R 1871, LLC is currently the largest manufacturer of single shot shotguns and rifles in the world.

Perhaps the most well-known, and popular of H&R's guns is the Handi-Rifle, a cheap, entry level, single shot rifle. It's a sleek, good looking gun for the price ($250+). A variety of medels are available from the Youth and Synthetic/Stainless/Superlight models to the Sportster variations and the CR45 Long Colt and Buffalo Classic rifles.

There's a brisk trade in these New England Firearms rifles and they have proved difficult to find because they're so popular, While local gun shops should always be the first port of call so you can get a hands-on feel for the weapon, better deals are often found by shopping online.