Manufactured in circa 1899 per page 107 of Nigel Brown's "British Gunmakers: Volume One - London". Blued steel barrels with blade front and three position express rear sight on the matted solid rib, marked "WILLIAM EVANS (FROM PURDEYS)" and "95. BUCKINGHAM PALACE ROAD. LONDON." on the left and right barrels respectively, and both barrels marked "HENRY'S RIFLING" on the underside with period London black powder proofs and "39" bore marking. The blued back action feature near full coverage classic English rose and scroll engraving, "WILLIAM EVANS/FROM PURDEYS" marked on either lock, engraved hammers, double triggers, and a rotary underlever barrel release. Beautifully figured, multi-point checkered splinter forend with engraved fittings and a rotary latch release and pistol grip stock with blued grip cap, cheekpiece, inscription oval marked "C.E.A.", and blued steel buttplate. The chambering is not marked; however, the chamber measurements point to the rifle being chambered in .500 Black Powder Express. Includes a leather bound takedown case marked "500 WILLIAMS" on one end in white paint with "C.E.R.W." marked on the lid and Evan Williams trade label inside. Length of pull 14 9/16 inches. Weight 9 lbs 4 oz. Provenance: The Buckstix Collection

Fine, retaining 75% reapplied blue finish, areas of thinning and brown patination, some spots of light pitting, and mild handling evidence. There is a worn divot out of the left side of the forend, otherwise, the wood is fine with scattered dings and scratches and worn but well-defined checkering. The case is very good with mild storage wear. Mechanically excellent.