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Author Topic: Model 490 w/30-30 rifle barrel?  (Read 1092 times)

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Offline Paraquack

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Model 490 w/30-30 rifle barrel?
« on: October 31, 2011, 08:39:24 AM »
I've got an (1969) Model 490 "Topper Jr." with a 30-30 barrel on it. Did it ever come with a rifle barrel or is this someones addition? I bought it used over 20 years ago and after shooting it a few times found the breach face cracked across the firing pin hole. I had a gunsmith fix it (welded, faced, and new FP hole drilled). I fired it a couple of times after that to make sure it worked, and then put it away because I didn't trust it. Does anyone here think it's a good idea to keep shooting it or should I find a good 20ga. barrel to put on it and call it good?
 
I've lurked here for a while reading and learning. Glad I finally decided to join. Thanx for the information.
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Offline gcrank1

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Re: Model 490 w/30-30 rifle barrel?
« Reply #1 on: October 31, 2011, 09:17:10 AM »
How much is your face worth?
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Offline petemi

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Re: Model 490 w/30-30 rifle barrel?
« Reply #2 on: October 31, 2011, 09:40:40 AM »
Welcome to the forum.  I've got to agree with gcrank1.  I wouldn't trust that frame with anything.  If the barrel is in good shape, I'd see if I could fit it to a more modern high pressure frame and use the old frame for a boat anchor.

Pete
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Offline Paraquack

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Re: Model 490 w/30-30 rifle barrel?
« Reply #3 on: October 31, 2011, 10:24:39 AM »
I knew there was some reason not to play with that thing.  While my face isn't much to look at, I think I'll keep it the way it is and retire that frame to parts. I have recently picked up a Topper "Mustang" in 30-30 that the other barrel seems to fit well. The Mustang is missing the forend wood (snap on style) but the forend/wood from the "bad" one does fit. Was $80.00 too much to give? Might have to re-chamber the extra barrel to something else. Thanx for the information, advise and warnings. 
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Offline quickdtoo

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Re: Model 490 w/30-30 rifle barrel?
« Reply #4 on: October 31, 2011, 10:28:08 AM »
Welcome! Be aware that vintage H&R barrels have soldered/brazed underlugs as opposed to welded modern barrels, so they won't work with any high pressure chambering even on a modern SB2 frame.

Tim
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Offline Paraquack

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Re: Model 490 w/30-30 rifle barrel?
« Reply #5 on: October 31, 2011, 10:39:29 AM »
Was thinking more about 30-30 AI than anything. I've got a 30-06 AI that is fun to work with and shoot. I've been a reloader for about 35 years so am aware of the differences and pressures involved.
 
Noticed this was moved, I'll try to remember that for next time. Is most of the older Topper info here?   
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Offline quickdtoo

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Re: Model 490 w/30-30 rifle barrel?
« Reply #6 on: October 31, 2011, 10:58:09 AM »
We have a couple H&R historians that frequent this forum that should have specifics on M490 production. I did find this previous reply by 32 Magnum in a similar thread tho.

Tim



Quote from: 32 Magnum on April 12, 2011, 06:49:25 AM
casca1,
I've been researching your question, going through all the stuff I have - I can not find reference that the TOPPER JR 490 was ever offered with .30-30 Win barrel ???????
What I've found is that model was in production from 1961 to 1983 and saw 4 variations during that time.  The only chamberings listed are 20 ga. 2 3/4", .410 bore 3" - 1st Variation; then in 1970 20 ga 3" and .410 3" (2nd through fourth variations - 1970 thru 1983) and the addition of a 28 ga 2 3/4" offering during the 4th Var. 1976-1983.
It's probable that a former owner had a rifle barrel fitted to the 490 frame.  I'd be cautious with that combination as H&R issued warning that the shotgun frames were not necessarily strong enough to handle rifle chamber pressures????
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Offline gcrank1

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Re: Model 490 w/30-30 rifle barrel?
« Reply #7 on: October 31, 2011, 11:20:24 AM »
The standard 30-30 is a dandy as is, and you have a faster 30cal. already, so unless you get a newer SB-2 frame dont push it. In fact, as is the 30-30 can be a splendid reduced velo cast bullet shooter. and gobbs o' fun on the cheap from 32-20 eqiuv. loads on up to some long heavies  ;) .
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"Halt while I adjust my accoutrements!"
      ><   ->
We are only temporary caretakers of the past heading toward an uncertain future
22Mag UV / 22LR  Sportster
357Mag Schuetzen Special
45-70  SS Ultra Hunter with UV cin.lam. wood
12ga. 'Ol' Ugly OverKill', Buck barrel c/w  SpeedStock  and swap 28" x Full bird barrel, 1974

Offline 32 Magnum

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Re: Model 490 w/30-30 rifle barrel?
« Reply #8 on: November 02, 2011, 06:19:51 AM »
I'm with gcrank1 on this - the fact that the standing breech has already broken and been rewelded, indicates to me that the .30-30, although rather low pressure for a rifle round - is still TOO MUCH for the shotgun designed frame.  Better safe than sorry.
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