The Soper rifle is one of the most interesting British firearms from the late 19th Century. It was patented by William Soper of Reading, Soper claimed his rifle was rejected by the Special Committee on Breechloading Rifles in 1868 because it arrived one day late. Other sources indicate that the rifle was rejected due to its complex design. The rifle is operated by a lever fixed to the right side of the action that can be thumb operated with minimal disturbance to the shooter’s position. The lever opens the breech and cocks the hammer simultaneously and additional pressure activates the extractor. Once the breech is closed and the hammer is cocked, a safety mechanism prevents the breech from opening. In order to open the loaded chamber, the user must press a lever on the right side above the trigger. It is fitted with a blade front and folding ladder rear sights and a walnut stock secured by two barrel bands with a forend cap and flat buttplate. The right side of the barrel at the breech is marked "E.S.C." with an intertwined "SW" monogram on the top flat. The top of the barrel behind the rear sight is marked "W. SOPER. RIFLE & GUN MAKER. READING. ENGLAND." The left side is marked "W. SOPER'S" followed by the intertwined "SW" monogram and "PATENT". There are also English proofs behind and below these markings. The top of the breech mechanism is marked "694" and "W. SOPER'S" followed by a "crown/V" proof and then "PATENT". A third "SW" monogram is on the right rear of the mechanism, and the matching serial number along with "S" is marked on the inside of the breechblock. It includes a slotted cleaning rod.

Very fine, in-the-white. The metal surfaces have a bright appearance with some spotting throughout. The buttplate has some oxidation/brown patina. The wood is also very fine with only a few scattered dings and light scratches. It is mechanically excellent and has clear markings.