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.500 x 3” Black Powder Express
double barrelled hammer big game rifle by R B Rodda and co. Border engraved back
action locks with rebounding hammers engraved R B RODDA & CO. Border
engraved Jones patent rotary under lever action. Pistol grip walnut stock with
Silvers recoil pad is chequered to the wrist with vacant white metal escutcheon
to the under side. Key retained fore end with steel furniture (chequering worn
smooth). Barrels with full length matted rib are struck with Birmingham proof
marks for .500 Express using 136 grains of power and a 480 grain bullet.
Standing rear sight for 100 yards with folding leaves for 200 and 300 yards the
barrel tops engraved R B RODDA & CO LONDON & 2 WELLESLEY PLACE
CALCUTTA. A typical double big game rifle of the Victorian age designed for use
on Indian and African non dangerous game of all species and soft skinned
dangerous game such as the big cats. The flat shooting .500” was very popular at
the time offering good accuracy over normal sporting ranges combined with good
knock down power for use on large or dangerous game. In good condition with very
good bores and tight lock up, nice sharp stock with two small inlet repairs to
the rear of the locks and much finish to the barrels. A nice example of a
classic English double retailed by one of the most famous of the Victorian
colonial out fitters.