Newbie question: NEF-H&R purchase

[sbplinker]

Hello all, I am really new to the H&R Handi-Rifle idea, but am impressed with what you all have to say about them, and am getting ready to purchase one. I am leaning toward a .223, but maybe a 22-250, either way I would also purchase a 20 gage barrel down the road as funds allow. I have a Savage 30.06, so heavier game is covered, but a good, fun, economical rifle for the range, and hopefully some hunting, is what I am looking for.

I was looking at RR Arms for Handi-Rifles and noticed this:NEW ENGLAND HANDI-RIFLE .223 BLUED/WALNUT, Item Number: GSB2223, Price: $224.02
 
 

Then also under .223 Handi-Rifles this one:
H&R ULTRA RIFLE .223 BLUED CINNAMON LAMINATE STOCK, Item Number: GSB2823, Price: $272.34

There was also another H&R .223 ultra varmint, for about the same price. I have heard that NEF is the same, exactly the same, as H&R. Is this true? it seems that they are being marketed differently, other than the laminated stock, what is the difference that one costs almost $50 more? The ultra varmint is without the laminated stock, but runs $272 I guess my question really boils down to this: if I buy the NEF, am I getting an inferior product? is the action really the same, barrel the same, accuracy, trigger pull, etc the same? I understand the price  diff with a heavier barrel, or different stock options, I am just wondering if it makes a difference which initials are stamped on it.
 
 


 

[quickdtoo]

Welcome to GBO! NEF = the Chevys, H&R the Buicks or GMs, just a price line and feature difference. Ultras have the same frame as the Handis, different stocks, either resin laminated, monte carlo or thumbhole, or the Varmint model with skeleton Choate stock and fluted barrels. NEFs are Handirifles, plain walnut stained birch/beech stocks or synthetic Choate monte carlo or straight stock depending on the chambering, some have sights, all are drilled and tapped for a scope base. You'll see New England Firearms on most Handis, Harrington and Richardson(H&R) on most Ultras, but those lines are becoming fuzzy lately, more with H&R marked on them. They all come out of the same factory in Gardner MA, they make some of their own barrels, Marlin makes most of them. Take you pic based on whatcha want, you'll get the same service either way. 

Tim

[sbplinker]

Thanks for the info, I am thinking the monte carlo stock would help, as I would scope the rifle. But what about a heavy barrel, or bull barrel in a .223 or 22-250? does that make a difference in how it shoots? I assume the heavy barrel is more accurate, but in real life experience, from what you guys have seen, is there an advantage to a heavy barrel?

[quickdtoo]

Bull barrels are stiffer and heat up less which gives an accuracy edge,  but also take longer to cool down. As heavy as the standard contour is, there's not too much difference, just depends on which fills your needs better. A bull barrel will balance better with the the heavier laminated stock, a Superlight carries very nicely with a synthetic stock, so they all have their advantages. 

Tim

[EVOC ONE]

Welcome!   

The .223 standard barrel Handi was my first.  I bought it simply to have an inexpensive center-fire that I could shoot without going broke.  I still have it.  Its one of my favorites.  Ammo costs are way up, but the .223 is still one of the least expensive.

 

[sbplinker]

Great info, thanks again. If I get this .223, I will also want another barrel, or two... I noticed y'all sell them on the classified postings, pretty actively. can I just buy a used barrel from one of you? Do I need to have it fitted to my handi, or can I just buy one and slap in on? I called H&R and they maintain that I have to buy barrels from them, and have each one fitted to my action.

[quickdtoo]

Please read my barrel fitting info in the FAQs, all your options are explained there. 

Tim

http://www.gboreloaded.com/forums/index.php/topic,82412.msg504758.html#msg504758

[myarmor]

.... I see another Handiholic in the making ...add another welcome to the list.
There are many a happy 223 Handi owners here, me included, and it's one of the best barrels offered by them IMO. Be it SL, Standard, or Heavy.
We all have our preferance of stock choice, but there are many options so take your pic.
 Enjoy the site and company here, both are very good.



-Aaron