This rifle was completed in 1883 according to page 194 of Donald Dallas' Purdey Gun & Rifle Makers: The Definitive History". The rifle was built fluid steel chopperlump barrels featuring a beaded blade front sight and a fixed notch rear sight with platinum centerline on the hand filed flat solid rib which is signed "J. PURDEY & SONS, AUDLEY HOUSE, SOUTH AUDLEY STREET, LONDON.", front sling stud, period London proof marks on the flats, chambers with a single extractor, and a hidden third fastener. The barrels are fitted to the casehardened hammer fired back action which displays an early version of Purdey's famous engraving of fine scroll surrounding rose bouquets. Developed by Purdey's longest serving engraver, James Lucus, in the 1870s. The engraving is exceptional and likely done by Mr. Lucus. "J. PURDEY & SONS" is engraved on either lockplate and continuing onto the hammers, triggerguard, toplever, and both tangs. The rifle features rebounding hammers with bar safeties, gold washed firing pins, and double triggers. The rifle is fitted with a nicely figured and multi-point checkered splinter forend with engraved forend iron and a gorgeous pistol grip stock with engraved steel grip cap, raised cheekpiece, rear sling stud, blank silver inscription oval, and checkered bare butt. Included is an oak and leather flat case with Purdey trade label, case straps, oiler, and some cleaning tools. Length of pull 15 1/8 inches. Weight 8 lbs. 11 oz.

Very fine as professionally refurbished, retaining 99% re-black on barrels, some minor subsurface pitting, strong traces of original case colors in the protected areas with the balance a fine silver patina, a tiny older chip on the right edge of the forend, and crisp checkering on the stock and forend. Mechanically excellent. The case is good with transit wear.