Manufactured circa 1880 to 1882. This particular rifle has all matching numbers on the stock, forearm, buttplate, breech block, forearm and barrel, which is a little odd to writer because the action has been altered from straight grip to pistol grip and then flame case colored. The action facets are not correct for a Rigby, however the barrel is and the lever is a No. 5 double trigger ring style, altered to fit the pistol grip configuration. The barrel is fitted with a new replacement globe spirit level front sight, has no provisions for a rear sight and the rigby flats are engraved, and the top flat has "BALLARD" in a banner. The left side of the cast action is marked with the three line Marlin address, patent dates and Ballard patent date. The top of the action is fitted with a mid-range Vernier peep sight. The rifle is mounted with the correct checkered walnut forearm with a horn forend and a pistol grip stock with cheek piece and a small nickel plated Swiss buttplate

Very good, with 98% blue finish on the barrel. There is some thinning to plum and a few minor scratches. As noted above the action has been altered to pistol grip and receiver re-case colored. There is evidence of the weld used to make the alteration and the left side of the action shows bright colors. The right side has a dull gray appearance. Virtually all of the nickel plating remains on the lever and the buttplate. The wood is good with a revarnished finish. There are three moderate cracks on the right side above the wrist, and one at the stock heel, there are a few minor dings and dents, with crisp checkering. The front sight windage head and base are loose.