Westley Richards FIELD'S Pat Falling Block Single Shot Rifle

Hello All,

I had been searching high and low for a Daniel Fraser Falling Block Single Shot Rifle - with little success. When along the way I came across this unique Westley Richards Single Shot Rifle that I just couldn't pass-up.

It was built on a Field's Patent action in January of 1882 in 500/450 1-1/2" case. (aka No.1 WR Carbine)

I was somewhat surprised by the similarity of this action to that of a Winchester Hi-Wall. Lever underneath on the Winchester, vs lever at the side on the Field's. Interestingly, the Field's action was patented in 1877, a year before John Browning designed his Single Shot Hi-Wall. I wonder if John Browning may have been influenced by the Field's action and only modified its design, rather than inventing his own action.

Specs for this rifle are: 25" Full Octagon Barrel with ramrod underneath - 8 pounds 1 oz - 14" LOP - Ivory Diamond Inlays ea. side - 1 standing + 4 Folding Leaf Express + Ladder Sight - Right Hand Push Forward Side Lever - Scroll Engraved Receiver - Steel Engraved Butt Plate w/ Trap. (there is evidence of a vintage stock repair, but it is minor and well done, and it can only be seen in bright sunlight)

I have had conversations about this rifle with Wal Winfer ("Westley Richards Single Shot Rifles", author) about the non-typical lever found on this rifle. (straight-vertical vs serpentine-angular) Wal opined that it was an early design as there was much variation of levers early on. And, examination of the removed lever confirmed this, with a matching serial number found stamped on the back.

Although the cartridge seems a little on the smallish side, the factory load was 55g black powder under a 380g paper patch bullet for 1300 fps. I've been shooting a 405g lead bullet at 1350 fps which yields over 1600 ft/lbs muzzle energy. And, this cartridge actually exceeds the 45-70 Trapdoor Springfield Carbine Factory load by 100 fps.

I'll post some pictures of targets in the future.

I've been practicing with the rifle with the expectation of using it this fall to bag a Wisconsin Whitetail Deer. Estimating the range to use the correct leaf will be a challenge.

I'm currently waiting for a Westley Richards Factory Letter.

Your comments are welcome.