Hi Guys

I bought this from a UK dealer last week as a "Howdah Rifle"

Made by R B Rodda - by appointment to the Viceroy & HRH the Duke of Edinburgh - London & Calcutta
(On the barrels)

Calibre .577/500 No.2

Barrel length now 19", (Steel)

Weight 8 1/2 lbs

Probably made for Rodda in the Birmingham trade mid 1870's with peg fore end and very percussion style fences

It has had a hard life but bores are ok with a little pitting

In hand it poses a few questions

There are what appear to be Indian Arsenal markings on the barrel S-K-1561-55 with some Hindi/Nepali script
and 22637 on the stock

Was this converted to a "Howdah Rifle" (more effective than the so-called "Howdah Pistols"), or was it cut down in an Indian Arsenal for some Military or Prison service?

The dealer said that it shoots well, after several dozen? rounds (130 grains BP behind a 340/380 grain bullet)as his shoulder let him know for the next couple of days!!

Early percussion type fences, quite attractive

Only fair condition, like many Birmingham shotguns

Peg fore end

Birmingham Proofs, 39 bore = ,494 ish

Sights for 100 & 200 yards, before being cut down

muzzles crowned, rough job of refitting foresight

Bores a bit scruffy sorry about the poor pic

Hind/Nepali script on barrel

Comments and opinions please

TH44