View Full Version : Any ideas for a handicapped person rifle w/o a hammer
A friend is looking for a deer rifle for his handicapped dad, who has a bad hand, and needs a break open rifle that doesn't have a hammer as he doesn't have the strength in his hands to pull the hammer back. I thought of the Ruger No 1 but that is pricey for an old man. Any other ideas?
He'll still need the strength to operate a Ruger's lever. That's about the same as any rifle's hammer.
I think more info is required. As in how badly disabled is the guy? Any rifle will require the strength to operate the action. Like can he operate a bolt? Or use a pump gun?
Vern Humphrey
10-03-2018, 12:35
A semi auto might be the answer -- say a Ruger in 7.62X39mm?
i agree with vern, id look at a semi.
JB White
10-03-2018, 02:44
I agree with not having enough information to offer any type of solution. Almost any rifle will require some strength and dexterity during at least one point of its operation. Then there are questions such as the weight of the arm in question and the ability to handle recoil. What are the local restrictions (if any) concerning the choices of cartridge? Bullet diameter/fps/foot pounds of energy/handloads vs factory offerings from major manufacturers?
Semi-auto or hammerless single shot in a light recoiling chambering such as the 7.62x39 as already mentioned, a .243 Winchester etc providing they are legal for the area. Getting either that doesn't require similar strength to cycle the action or break it open is a challenge. Finding one in a lower price range compounds things and limits choices. Trying to assist someone third person complicates things even more. It's tough enough to help someone at a gun counter let alone on the internet by proxy.
Having said all that, have you looked into the single shot offerings from Henry? It might be possible to slick one up? For hammerless, the Turks or Baikal rifle might still be found somewhere.
***Here's the link to Henry***
https://www.henryusa.com/rifles/single-shot-rifle/
I have located an older Savage 219 a single shot hammerless. Gonna look around for one. I don't have the particulars on this person, only that his right hand doesn't have the strength to cock the hammer type rifle. Well try to get more info.
You are only looking at half the problem. If he has trouble operating the action, can he control the gun in recoil, even off the bench?
Problem with an autoloader is you need some hand strength to charge it or unload it. Lever gun is the best bet, but yeah, recoil management and overall safe handling.
A friend is looking for a deer rifle for his handicapped dad, who has a bad hand, and needs a break open rifle that doesn't have a hammer as he doesn't have the strength in his hands to pull the hammer back. I thought of the Ruger No 1 but that is pricey for an old man. Any other ideas?
If a Ruger will work then he may have to bite the bullet and undergo the expense. Perhaps he could liquidate or trade other guns he may have now that he has the bad hand. With a semi he would have to able to load and operate the breech bolt. With a pump he would have to be able to grasp the forearm and operate it but if either of these would work out then the Remington 742 and 762 would be candidates (no exposed hammers and fairly cheap). With a bolt action the bolt could be operated using any part of his hand or even his arm, it just wouldn't be a very quick situation. As far as lever actions go most of them have exposed hammers but I would recommend he try out a Savage 99. The ones I have examined had a very smooth lever operation and of course no visible hammer. This gun could also be loaded and used as a single shot if easier on him.
Former Cav
10-04-2018, 09:16
A savage bolt action rifle in .243.
you can buy them with a scope on them for 300 to 400 bucks
try this
https://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/product_info.php/cPath/36_62/products_id/70949
of course they have "YOUTH" rifles in other brands just do a search.
the bolt action is easy to work. I have severe gout and can work them
"...only that his right hand..." That his trigger hand too? Right handed shooters usually use the left to cycle the action.
JB White
10-04-2018, 03:50
"...only that his right hand..." That his trigger hand too? Right handed shooters usually use the left to cycle the action.
Are you talking right handed with a handicap? I hope so.
Otherwise the British army must've been doing the "mad minute" drill all wrong. :) Right handed is the reason behind the dog leg on the P14/M1917 bolt handle. Puts the mad minute finger at the correct place for the trigger.
jjrothWA
10-05-2018, 02:25
A freind had a bad shoulder , he bought a N. E. F., "Hansi Rifle, and went to Colorado and took a Mule deer and Elk on two trips.
Guides were impressed, with him and the results [of course!]
mike9905
10-05-2018, 09:35
Over/under or side by side shotgun and slugs. But if he can't deal with a hammer, what will he do about the deer he's just shot?
Over/under or side by side shotgun and slugs. But if he can't deal with a hammer, what will he do about the deer he's just shot?
that is the easiest part to answer. usually get someone else to drag and gut. over the years, ive gutted a lot of deer for the older guys.
A semi auto might be the answer -- say a Ruger in 7.62X39mm?
That was my first thought. But it's semi, so keep and eye on him.
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