Manufactured c. 1870s-1880s. The Soper Patent rifle holds a special place in the pantheon of innovative Victorian breech loading rifles from the late 19th century. Its unique action allowed for a very high rate of fire, a feat which was ably demonstrated by Soper’s assistant, Sgt. John Warrick, to much popular acclaim at the Basingstoke Exhibition in 1870 (Basingstoke being around 20 miles from Reading where Soper was based) when he fired 60 “aimed” shots in 60 seconds. Originally patented in 1868, Soper’s complicated design was passed over by the British military in favor of the more robust Martini-Henry, but his design found favor amongst sportsmen and target shooters. Medium weight modern replacement blued slightly tapering round barrel. Modern globe front sight (absent sight insert) with spirit level, and side mounted modern fully adjustable folding peep ladder rear sight fitted to a blued plate on the left side of the stock. Casehardened action engraved with fine scrollwork, marked with a “WS” monogram on the top edge and signed "INVENTOR & PATENTEE/W. SOPER/MANUFACTURER/READING” on the left side, “W. SOPER’S PATENT” signed on the hinged breech block, and "crown/V" London proofs on the action and breech block. Figured walnut pistol grip half stock with checkered grip and forearm, and horn forearm cap. The back end of the comb fitted with a base for a long range supine position target sight (no sight fitted). Engraved with fine floral pattern scrollwork on the action, breech block, trigger guard, sideplate, pistol grip cap, long range base and buttplate. Matching number "422" marked on the barrel, breech block, frame and trigger guard. Includes an extra matching numbered 20 gauge smoothbore cut down shotgun barrel, and smooth bored from the original rifled barrel, marked with the same Soper address on top and with 2 1/2 inch chamber.

Very fine, retains 97% professionally refinished blue finish on the barrel, with smooth gray patina on the casehardened action and fittings, and sharp engraving overall. Stock is also very fine as refinished, with defined recut checkering, some nicks and scratches, a small hairline crack ahead of the top left of the buttplate, and defined edges. Mechanically excellent. Extra barrel is very good, retains 60% refinished blue finish with smooth brown patina on the balance, scattered light freckling, and some light wear to the markings.