Superb Webley RIC style revolver circa 1885

This little revolver was manufactured in Belgium and is basically a copy of the Webley but in comparison, of superior manufacture. It falls into the category of "constabulary" issues and is complete with its original service holster. The condition is outstanding with most original finish and it cocks and locks as tightly as the day it was made, in fact I doubt if it was ever fired except for proof. The proof is Belgium and the standard at the time was in excess of British Proof. Much of the British Gun trade in the 19th century relied on Belgium made components and indeed some "British" makes were actually made in Belgium but proofed for the British Retail trade and stamped with the retailers name in the UK. There were a number of excellent manufacturers who exported Globally and this is a revolver made by one of them.
Based on a Webley RIC the revolver has a fluted "chapel" cylinder, rebounding hammer and an additional safety catch to lock the hammer. The loading gate is extant and has a tight spring. As a type example it is one of the finest I have seen and clearly was issued, cleaned and locked away for the past 140 years.
The word "crisp" is done to death in this industry and I would seldom use it but in this instance it merits the accolade, "tight" would probably be a better description.
The calibre is 320 British which is an obsolete calibre benefiting from Section 58(2) of the Firearms Act as amended and can be possessed as an object of curiosity as an antique if you meet VCRA 2006 requirements for ownership. The calibre is clearly marked on the frame.
In my parlance this is a "keeper" and I doubt if it could be bettered. A superb little revolver.

Code: 50627