Cased Webley British Bulldog Revolver .44 Rimfire.

This is a rare and highly collectible Victorian Webley No. 2 "British Bull Dog" rimfire revolver, chambered in the scarce .44 Rimfire calibre. This firearm represents a significant piece of British arms history, originating from the renowned Birmingham manufacturer, Webley. The revolver, bearing a serial number in the 23,xxx range, is mechanically sound and cocks and locks as it should and easily disassembles as shown.
The gun has original walnut grips and is correctly stamped with maker, calibre and model. Originally blued, the finish has now mellowed to a pleasing plum grey patina, with traces of the original colour remaining in protected areas. It features the famed Webley flying bullet logo, a hallmark of its circa 1870s production. Accompanying the revolver is its correct oak case, complete with essential accessories: a cleaning rod, oil pot, and turnscrew. Notably, the lid of the case features a vacant escutcheon a standard feature of factory cases.
"The Webley No. 2 "British Bull Dog" was introduced in 1872 and only manufactured for a relatively short period. The revolver stands as an iconic firearm from the mid Victorian era. This particular example, chambered in the less common .44 Rimfire, is particularly sought after by collectors. As noted by George Layman in his seminal work, "The British Bulldog Revolver," the British Bulldog revolver played a significant role in the expansion of the American West. He calls the Bulldog “the forgotten gun that really won the West”. During the 1870s, the firearms industry was transitioning away from rimfire cartridges in favour of the more reliable centre fire designs. However, this .44 Rimfire Webley serves as a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of that pivotal period. In the United Kingdom, where .44 centre fire revolvers are subject to stringent firearms certificate requirements, this .44 Rimfire Webley offers a unique and legally accessible opportunity for enthusiasts to own a piece of this historic firearm design."
This .44 Rimfire Webley revolver is legal to own within the UK without the need for a firearms certificate, making it a highly desirable and appreciating asset for discerning collectors.

Code: 50710