The maker's records confirm that this rifle was completed in 1861 for Sir A. Egerton. With browned Damascus twist barrels signed "CHARLES LANCASTER. 151. NEW BOND STREET. LONDON" and "PATENT SMOOTH BORED BREECH LOADING RIFLE" on the left and right barrel, respectively, stippled raised flat rib with blade front sight, rear sight of one standing and three folding leaves each with gold inlaid center line and graduated from 50 to 200 yards, with the 100 yard folding leaf in front of the standing 50 yard leaf. Barrels struck with London proof marks and barrelsmith’s mark "CL" for Charles Lancaster, and sling stud attached to the lower rib. Casehardened rotary underlever sliding breech action marked "CHARLES LANCASTER'S PATENT" on each side of the action, with conspicuous flat strikers that slide into the fences when fired. Back action side locks each signed "C. LANCASTER PATENT LONDON" on ribbons and fitted with blued safety catches. The action and locks are engraved with fine scroll engraving throughout and the top of the action has an engraved monogram. The trigger guard is engraved with the serial number under the lever and is checkered on the tang. Figured straight hand stock with raised cheek piece, two pins at the head of the stock to mark the hammers at half-cock, checkered grip and forearm, the underside of the butt with blank silver initial escutcheon and checkered steel butt. Provenance: The Malcolm King Collection

Fine with 95% of the rebrowned finish remaining on the barrels with slight handling marks and clear markings. The stippling on the rib appears to have been a period field modification. The casehardened action, locks, and trigger guard have turned mostly a dark grey patina with signs of the original casehardened finish. The wood is fine as refinished with scattered handling marks, sharp checkering, and a small repair at the right front of the forend. The rear sling stud is absent and a filler has been added with excess glue remaining. Mechanically excellent.