July 23, 2024

Westley Richards 'Best Quality' Single Trigger .470 Nitro Express

In many ways this double .470 is typical of a modern Westley Richards dangerous game rifle but look closer and it becomes apparent that it is very subtly, but importantly, customised to suit the client, and not as 'normal' as it might at first appear.

By Westley Richards & Co.

The Taylor-patent hand detachable lock is the most frequently ordered double rifle we have made over the last two decades. It is, in practical terms, as close to perfect as it is possible to make a heavy double rifle for Africa.

In .470 NE, it is a wonderful balance of portability (weighing 10lbs 8oz) and power (a 500 grain bullet breaching 2,000 fps).

This particular build has a beautiful, classic look to it and is distinguished by the specification of a rear peep-sight, which is modelled on a similar option we offered before the Great War, but which is rarely seen today.

In order to accommodate it we have made the rear sights entirely as folding leaves, which lie flat when not deployed, leaving a clear view between the peep-sight and the front blade.

Another option is the non-selective single trigger, which Westley Richards has been incorporating into double rifles for well over a century.

Captain James Sutherland, the famous elephant hunter had one on his .577 and wrote that it never once failed to work.

Making it non-selective is sensible, as the difference between one barrel and the other in a rifle is nothing, unlike a shotgun where choke selection is a factor. Removing the selector is removing an unnecessary complication.

The stance of the rifle is very elegant, with a traditionally profiled comb, since accommodation for a 'scope is not required. The pistol-hand stock is beautifully figured and finely chequered and the 'fancy back' action adds another level of grace to the lines of the rifle.

Double rifles like this are set-up to handle like a shotgun and be fast to shoulder and instinctive to shoot. Everything about the geometry is focussed on that characteristic.

The engraving is full coverage traditional scroll. This extends to the quarter rib, the grip cap, guard strap, top lever and foresight ramp. Gold is used to highlight the leaf sight ranges of 50, 100 and 150 yards and the 'SAFE' lettering on the top strap. The safety, as is common on dangerous game rifles, is manual.

As well as the maker's name on the rib and the action, the basic cartridge data is engraved on the barrel tubes to remind future users as to the correct loads to use, as this is crucial to good performance and if separated from the rifle may be forgotten in years to come.

It, therefore, specifies; '.470 3 1/4" Nitro Express' and 'Reg. for 500 grain bullet'.

The action and grip-cap are traditionally colour case hardened and the barrels and furniture deeply blacked. The colours and figure of the hardening harmonise with those of the walnut stock, creating aesthetic balance.

For tiny details that matter, look at the beading around the edge of the grip-cap, the jewelling (or 'spotting') on the trigger blade and the rolled-edge trigger guard.

The sling-eyes match our Q-D sling swivels and 1" canvas webbing sling, providing a comfortable means of walking with the rifle for many miles. Another comfort enhancing feature is the leather-covered, soft rubber, butt-pad.

For ease of travel, rather than bespoke motor case, it has been paired with a brown buffalo hide rifle slip. It will be protected in transit by a rolling travel case with telescopic handle.

In all, an elegant and deadly package ideal for taking on the challenges of the African bush.

Whether for the discerning collector or the avid sportsman, Westley Richards firearms represent the epitome of excellence in the world of bespoke gunmaking. Known for the droplock shotgun, over and under shotgun, double barrel rifle and bolt action rifle, the company has achieved an illustrious 200 year history of innovation, craftmanship and artistry. As part of our best gun build, clients can choose from three levels of gun engraving: the house scroll; signature game scenes; and exhibition grade masterpieces. All Westley Richards sporting arms are built at their factory in Birmingham, England. Discover more about the gunmaking journey at our custom rifles and bespoke guns pages.

By Westley Richards & Co.