This was designed for large thin-skinned game, viz lion, tiger, etc. It might well have seen service in the Indian Mutiny, where such rifles were used by the officers in a sniper mode at the defence of Lucknow, rendering exellent service well beyond the 100 yard reach of the smooth bore muskets commonly used by both sides at this siege.
The rifle has browned (faded) damascus 30-inch barrels, the top-rib signed 'J.BLANCH & SON, 29 GRACECHURCH ST. LONDON', dove-tailed fore-sight, elevating ladder rear-sight, engraved breech-end with platinum plugs, border and scroll engraved bar-action locks signed 'J.BLANCH & SON', bolted safety catches forwards of the hammers, walnut chequered half stock (expertly repaired at the wrist), scroll engraved iron patch-box to the right hand side of the butt, iron heel-plate, scroll engraved trigger guard and tang with additional raised silver grip, stylised pineapple finial matching the ramrod throat and replacement ramrod.
It comes in its own period oak and brass reinforced case (relined in green baize with the original trade label re-applied) containing a number of accessories, including a period leather covered powder flask, a ball mould, oil bottle spring clamp and cleaning rods. One brass corner fitting has been (inadequately) replaced. The muzzle of the gun has probably been tidied up on account of bruising in use.
If you want to comment on this item—re quality, age, etc—please email me.
[Firearms : Percussion Longarms : British : 19th Century]
|
![online Militaria dealer - Antique-Militaria [UK]](/images/antique-militaria.jpg)
Antique Militaria Home
Site map
Historic comments
MAGNIFY