So we come to some of the more rarified of Westley Richards weapons manufacture - sidelocks. Whilst the hand detachable lock (droplock) has always been the pinnacle of Westley Richards production, sidelock double rifles and shotguns have always featured throughout the production of our 'sporting' guns and rifles.
As with all things Westley Richards, subtle nuances distinguish our sidelock double rifles, including our unique model 'C' dolls head fastener and wide pivoting lever work, Deeley catch forend fastener from the competition, making these rifles instantly recognisable as a Westley Richards.
  This recent .375 H&H Magnum calibre sidelock exhibits 'aggression' in all the game scenes bringing to life the actual rifle. The elaborate scroll is wonderfully executed with gold accents and a gothic text.
 A .500/.416 calibre engraved with carved lion scenes by Cecile Flohimont.
Another unusual calibre is this .450 No.2 with full 'Modele de Grande Luxe' engraving of lions. The images show our signature model 'C' dolls head which makes the rifle instantly recognisable as a Westley Richards.
 'The Lion Rifle' a fully carved masterpiece by Paul Lantuch. This .470 rifle was one of the first pieces executed by Paul on our behalf and demonstrates his skill and ability from both a creative and execution standpoint.
  Another .470 big game rifle. One of the nicest engraved features of this rifle is the herd of elephants walking down the quarter rib. It takes a keen eye to pick up on them, a subtle yet masterful use of detail.
Uniquely the only pair of sidelock double rifles built by Westley Richards in .470 calibre. These rifles have a traditional rose and scroll design with classic case colour hardening finish.Â
 A deluxe relief scroll .500 3" nitro express with coin finish. The large surface area of the sidelock allows our team of engravers to indulge in new patterns and designs.
 A beautiful .600 with a wonderful elaborate scroll design. This rifle has side clips on the fences. These huge .600 actions were based on a vintage pre-war P.Webley of the same calibre. Often these larger calibres are built too light and on inappropriate action sizes.Â
 A simply stunning .600 embellished by Vince Crowley. This rifle exhibits everything from delicate scroll work, through flush gold inlay, to carved steel, carved gold and even stock inlays!!! It does not get much better!!!!!!!
.600 India
Whether for the discerning collector or the avid sportsman, Westley Richards firearms represent the epitome of excellence in the world of bespoke gunmaking. Known for the droplock shotgun, over and under shotgun, double barrel rifle and bolt action rifle, the company has achieved an illustrious 200 year history of innovation, craftmanship and artistry. As part of our best gun build, clients can choose from three levels of gun engraving: the house scroll; signature game scenes; and exhibition grade masterpieces. All Westley Richards sporting arms are built at their factory in Birmingham, England. Discover more about the gunmaking journey at our custom rifles and bespoke guns pages.
Marcus Lindfors on April 10, 2020 at 2:09 pm
Screaming quality. Beyond any other maker's capability, my opinion. The hours put into this. They should be used but also for the eyes of future generations displayed at museums. The craftsmen in Birmingham should be indeed very proud on what they do. Black County hard work.
Happy Easter, safe Easter,
Marcus