Isaac Hollis & Sons were in operation in London from 1861-1900 and produced all manner of firearms and firearm accessories, being particularly known for their mass manufacture of trade guns for the African and Indian markets. This rifle shows the typical characteristics of the rifles made for private purchase by volunteers in the various rifle and artillery corps that were being formed in the United Kingdom around the middle of the 19th century including the stock with checkering on the forearm and wrist. The lock is marked "ISAAC HOLLIS & SONS./MAKERS TO/HER MAJESTY'S WAR DEPARTMENT". It is possible that this shorter two-band example was intended for a volunteer artillery corps or corps of mounted rifles.

Good, retains half of the dull refinished blue finish on the barrel which is showing an attractive plum patina in some areas and thinning to a smooth grey patina in others with the balance of the metal a smooth grey patina with some scattered light pitting. The lightly sanded and revarnished wood is also good with minor dings and scratches scattered throughout, minor cracks by the lock, and crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent.