The H&R Handi-Rifle, now manufactured by Rossi, holds a special place in the hearts of many shooters. Its single-shot design, coupled with its surprising versatility in available calibers, makes it a popular choice for hunting, target shooting, and plinking. This guide delves into the wide range of calibers offered for the Handi-Rifle, helping you choose the perfect one for your needs.
Understanding the Handi-Rifle's Caliber Options
The beauty of the Handi-Rifle lies in its adaptability. Unlike many other rifles, the Handi-Rifle isn't limited to a single caliber. By simply swapping out the barrel, you can easily change calibers, making it a highly versatile firearm for various hunting situations and shooting disciplines. This modularity is a key factor in its enduring appeal.
Rossi, the current manufacturer, maintains a substantial catalog of available barrels. This means that finding a Handi-Rifle in a caliber suitable for your specific needs shouldn't be a problem. However, the sheer number of options can be overwhelming for newcomers. Let's break down some popular and noteworthy calibers:
Popular Centerfire Calibers:
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.30-30 Winchester: A classic lever-action round, the .30-30 is a staple for deer hunting and remains a highly popular choice for Handi-Rifle owners. Its manageable recoil and effective range make it an excellent all-around cartridge.
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.308 Winchester (7.62x51mm NATO): This powerful and versatile cartridge is a favorite among hunters and military enthusiasts alike. Its accuracy and stopping power make it suitable for a wide range of game.
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.270 Winchester: Known for its flat trajectory and accuracy, the .270 Winchester is a popular choice for larger game hunting, offering excellent long-range performance.
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.243 Winchester: This lighter recoiling cartridge is ideal for smaller game, and it's also a great option for newer shooters, thanks to its reduced felt recoil.
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7mm-08 Remington: A slightly less powerful but more efficient cartridge compared to the .308, the 7mm-08 offers a good balance of accuracy and manageable recoil.
Popular Rimfire Calibers:
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.22 LR: The ubiquitous .22 LR is perfect for plinking, small game hunting, and target practice. Its affordability and low recoil make it a great choice for beginners and experienced shooters alike.
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.22 WMR (.22 Magnum): A step up from the .22 LR, the .22 WMR offers more power and range, making it suitable for slightly larger game.
Less Common but Noteworthy Calibers:
The Handi-Rifle has been offered in a truly impressive array of calibers over the years, including:
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.45-70 Government: A powerful round historically used for large game hunting, offering substantial stopping power.
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.44 Magnum: Known for its stopping power and use in handguns, the .44 Magnum in a Handi-Rifle provides a powerful hunting option.
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Various other calibers: Rossi has offered numerous other calibers throughout the Handi-Rifle's production history; checking the current Rossi catalog is recommended for the most up-to-date list.
Choosing the Right Caliber for You
Selecting the best caliber depends heavily on your intended use:
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Hunting: Consider the size of the game you'll be hunting. Smaller calibers like .243 or .270 are suitable for deer, while larger rounds like .30-30 or .308 are better suited for larger game. Always consult local hunting regulations.
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Target Shooting: Calibers like .22 LR, .22 WMR, or even the .308 are excellent choices for target practice, depending on your range and preferences.
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Plinking: The .22 LR is the undisputed king of plinking due to its low cost and ease of use.
Remember to always practice safe firearm handling techniques regardless of the caliber you choose. The versatility of the H&R Handi-Rifle makes it an excellent platform for a variety of shooting activities, but responsible gun ownership is paramount.
