1861

Engraved Hughes & Sons Birmingham Martini-Henry Falling Block Rifle

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:800.00 USD Estimated At:2,000.00 - 3,000.00 USD
Engraved Hughes & Sons Birmingham Martini-Henry Falling Block Rifle
Ramp ivory bead front sight and express rear sight, with 5 leaves marked for 100 to 500 meters, leading up to an 1800 meter folding ladder sight, with the rib marked "ROBERT HUGHES & SONS. BIRMINGHAM.", "NITRO PROVED" on the left side and "AMMUNITION 303" on the chamber. Both sides of the frame are marked with "HUGHES" in a banner, surrounded by a tight engraved zigzag pattern, with border engraving, light scrollwork on the top of the breech and at the wrist and a crossed scepter proof on the breechblock. The frame is equipped with a checkered thumb safety on the right side, a rare feature on a Martini rifle. Serrated trigger, with an engraved casehardened trigger guard and lever. Checkered fancy walnut pistol grip stock, with a horn tip, sling rings, an engraved flat buttplate and trapdoor compartment.
BBL: 28 1/2 inch round
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 303 British
Finish: blue/ casehardened
Grips:
Serial Number: NSN
Condition: Very fine, with 85% of the blue finish, showing streaks of brown patina and mild handling marks. Strong case colors remain on the loading lever, with a brown patina on the trigger guard. Stock is very fine as reoiled, with scuffing on the left side of the forearm, mild dings and fine grain on the buttstock. Mechanically excellent, with a sharp, bright bore.