This fine break action large bore rifle was made by Thomas Bland & Sons of London in the late 19th century and is marked as the winners of the 1885 American Rifle Trials on the barrel behind the rear sight. Thomas Bland & Sons manufactured shotguns and big game rifles. It is also marked "THOMAS BLAND & SONS. 430 WEST STRAND. LONDON" on the barrel ahead of the rear sight, "ELEY'S SOLID DRAWN CASE/CHARGE.10.DRMS" on the top barrel flat at the breech, and "T. BLAND & SONS" on the lockplate in front of the hammer. The inside of the action and barrel are also marked with the maker and the serial number as well as English proof marks. There is light engraving on the frame, hammer, trigger guard, grip cap, and other components primarily on the edges. It features a ramped front sight and folding rear sight on a blued barrel with case colored frame, sidelock hammer, trigger guard, and grip cap. It is fitted with a finely figured contrasting checkered walnut pistol grip stock with cheek rest and fully checkered forearm with a sling swivel, round inlay, and recoil pad. A sling swivel on the barrel is absent. Included is a shipping box and a locking leather bound takedown case with velvet lined interior containing a cleaning rod, tools, swab, oiler, and snap cap.

Very fine. The rifle barrel retains 95% finish with some thinning, a small amount of finish absent on the forend cap, and minor scratches and marks. The case colored components retain 75% of the original fiery case colors. There is some oxidation and aging on the forearm components, break lever, trigger guard, tangs, and pistol grip cap and a few spots of oxidation on the frame. The inlay on the lower butt has some striped brown patina but is mostly bright. The wood is very fine with only a few minor scratches, a few minor dents, and some small areas where the varnish has worn. The case has some wear with various marks, scratches, and dings and a clean interior.