The majority of actions available in single barrel rifle format appear to be in the wonderful 'Rook & Rabbit' calibre's that came into vogue at the beginning of the last century. Anson & Deeley boxlocks in these miniature calibres were certainly more prevalent than the falling block designs offered by Westley Richards at the time and they remain some of the most refined single shots of there type.
This particular rifle in .300 Sherwood has all the hallmarks of a very best Westley Richards boxlock rifle and appears unique in that it has an additional .410 barrel, the whole package original and complete in its makers case. Personally it really cannot get much better!
This rifle has Westley Richards signature 'scroll back' action as found on all of todays 'best' double droplock shotguns and the majority of double rifles. The wide top lever, jockey cap safety button and distinctive trigger profile are other instantly recognisable features of a Westley Richards.
The action profile and barrel breech end were kept very clean due to the fact that the extractor and ejector system were contained within the barrel flat. Other makers had theirs more visible on the outside.
The action retains virtually all of its original case colour hardening and has wonderfully scaled scroll engraving, with Westley Richards signature 'name in banner'.
This page from Westley Richards 'Centenary' catalogue clearly shows the hammerless action, which was only available in 'best' quality. An interchangeable barrel was offered in 32, 28 or .410 bore. How many 2 barrel sets were actually ever built and remain in collections today remains unknown.
Compared to the cleaning rod and a turnscrew you can gauge just how narrow the boxlock action is.
Westley Richards signature wide pivoting top lever, jockey cap safety button and triangle trade mark are instantly recognisable features.
Westley Richards has an outstanding reputation for supplying a comprehensive selection of pre-owned guns and rifles. We pride ourselves on our in depth knowledge of the many sporting arms built over the last 200 years, placing particular emphasis on big game rifles, like the 577 Nitro Express, 505 Gibbs and 425 Westley Richards. Whether looking to grow or sell your collection of firearms, or simply require a trusted evaluation, our team from the sales department would be delighted to hear from you. To view the latest available, head to the used shotguns and used rifles pages, and for those interested in new firearms, explore our custom rifles and bespoke guns pages.
Cyrus Partington on April 27, 2022 at 12:06 am
Love the Explora link. Wonderful products and great reading, very well done!
Charles A. Huettner on May 6, 2022 at 10:42 am
WOW!! A great combo! would love to have one!