Lot 3327: Factory Engraved Westley Richards Boxlock Ejector Double Rifle

Blue steel dovetail lump barrels with beaded blade front and three leaf (one standing, two folding) express notch rear sights, concave rib marked "WESTLEY RICHARDS 170 NEW BOND St. LONDON" ahead of the rear sight and "FOR WESTLEY RICHARDS No. 1 EXPRESS CARTRIDGE .450 BORE" between the rear sight and the breech. The breech end features a doll's head rib extension with hidden third fastener, automatic ejectors, and Birmingham black powder proofs on the flats. Casehardened Anson & Deeley box lock action with full coverage scroll engraving, "WESTLEY RICHARDS" banners on the sides, dual triggers, "WESTLEY RICHARDS/PATENT EJECTOR" marking on top ahead of the break lever, double safety with gold inlaid "SAFE" and "BOLTED" markings, and the trigger guard engraved with a stalking tiger. Checkered splinter forearm and pistol grip stock with horn forend tip insert, engraved fittings, carved teardrop accents behind the checkered flats, raised cheekpiece, and solid rubber recoil pad. Length of pull is 14 inches.

Fine. The barrels have 80% period refinished blue finish remaining with areas of visible edge wear, scattered small surface scratches, and slightly softened markings. The action has shadows of original case colors with the balance being an attractive dove gray patina with well defined engraving, refinished trigger guard with softened engraving, and some scattered light spotting. The refinished wood is fine with scattered small dings, well defined checkering, hairline crack visible behind the upper tang, a reinforcing bolt added through the checkered flats. Mechanically excellent.