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I just found a used Rigby--approximately 1920's vintage--boxlock--still has some color case hardening on the inside when you take it apart--bores seem to be in good condition--has not been reconditioned--wood is in good condition as well--

I realize there are all types of variables, however wondering if anyone has any thought on the approximate value of this double--maybe a range--say $22,000 to $28,000. as an example--I might be able to take it out and shoot it next week as I plan to drive over to have a look--don't have any photos now but might in a few days..

Any comments is appreciated..

Thank you

Ripp

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Ripp:

Almost all of the pre-war Rigby boxlock double rifles were built by Webley. I've only seen a couple from other makers. The great majority of the Webley's were supplied to the retailers complete, rather than being finished by the retailers.

If it is a Webley, Webley's number will be on the short rib (between the flats and the fore end loop) on guns built up to late 1906 (11,400 range), and on the left side of the fore-end loop, stamped close-up against the barrels, thereafter. These rifles are often earlier than most think. A Webley built boxlock DR from the '20s will have the number on the loop and it will be in the 13,400 to 13,900 range. Look for the number when you look at the rifle. Of course, this is a different number than the Rigby number you'll find on the guard tang.

If there isn't a number in the correct range in either place, it isn't a Webley, and was built by another supplier. I agree with 500 Nitro that the Webleys are the most desirable.

Value will depend mostly on condition, with bore condition paramount. Grade will matter some, but the price differential isn't huge with these rifles. The A & W C model in the higher grades in excellent condition - perhaps as high as $24,000. It would have to be the unusual 1st quality model in very high condition to be fairly worth $28,000.

Rigby sold both of the Webley boxlock DR models during the pre-war years. In excellent condition, I would take either model over a Westley boxlock every time - with no need to even handle the Westley.

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"Serious rifles have two barrels, everything else just burns gunpowder."

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