Texgun,
Since no one else has replied.
Most of the group here is into the rifles, as you probably have noticed.  One reason is that H&R1871 and NEF no longer manufacture handguns.  Lots of speculation as to why.
This email address is for a gentleman that was active on the old HRTalk Collectors board.  They knew a lot about the various models of the H&R 22 revolver.  DeanCascio1@aol.com  
Seems like he will know of someone who can give you more information.  They will probably need the model number.
Neal