July 30th 2016 Premier Firearms Sale (20)
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 7/30/2016
24-1/2" barrel in .303 British caliber. Often referred to as the Lee Speedloader, this is an exquisite hand built sporting rifle sold to officers of the British Army at the turn of the century through various outlets. These were popular in Africa and India. Officers who purchased their own rifles were very fond of these quality bolt action sporting rifles as they used the same ammunition as the standard British Enfield military rifle. This rifle features high flat ramp front sight with wind-drift front. Rear sight is a combination of African/military that features a fixed rear blade, two folding rear blades, and one long range military ladder style sight. The forward bridge has light engraving. The dust cover has border engraving as well as stamped "Charles Lancaster. 151 New Bond St of London", a very popular well-known retailer at the time. Has the standard two-piece stock with higher grade walnut and checkered pistol grip with cap. Smooth steel buttplate, sling eye, and a nickel owner's plaque at base. The forend features the same lovely wood, finely checkered with black forend tip. The full round barrel has a sling eye. Barrel retains approximately 80-85% original blue, starting to thin and turn in areas. Floorplate and trigger guard are engraved, as are bottom screws, and retain 40% original finish. Wrist band is lightly engraved. Frame retains 80% original bluing, all the high edges and slide shroud are a dark grey-brown patina. Pistol grip has plate. Wood is excellent, proud to metal, with sharp checkering. Strong clean bore and perfect action. Extremely fine condition, retailer marked, early 19th century BSA type rifle. Lovely early English sporting rifle.