Why do I like to go to the Las Vegas Antique Arms show?, because there is always the possibility of a surprise to be unearthed on one of the tables. Over the years I have bought some super guns and rifles at the show, often from individuals who are selling off their small collections. I guess the first rule of Antique Arms is to look first at everybody else's guns and then set up your own after, a rule I didn't follow this year.
A long standing client and possibly the most enthusiastic Westley collector I know, asked me on Friday to have a look at a .425 take down rifle, he wanted an opinion on the rifle in general and what I thought of the price that was asked. I duly did this and commented that it didn't have the desirable side clips to assist feed but besides that it was a good rifle in nice condition. I suggested a price he should try and get it for.
A couple of days later I had a text message saying 'The .425 rifle was made for Selous". he had not requested a history from the factory but rather had noticed from our book "In Pursuit of the Best Gun" the photograph of the ledger for the Selous rifle. Rifle No. 37798 supplied to Selous in 1911.
Having kicked myself very hard and been told I was totally incompetent by Trigger I am pleased to say that I really don't think there is a better man who should have found the rifle and uncovered the truth, the new owner is totally deserving. I am quite sure I would never have put 2 & 2 together and whilst he denies it, I am sure Trigger wouldn't have done either!
The rifle is heading to Africa this year which is fitting, there will be no film or such, just a great safari with a rifle that was ordered and shot by one of, if not the most famous hunters of our time. I am sure that will give a warm and cozy feeling whilst in the bush.
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Simon Clode on February 11, 2016 at 7:17 am
Exactement!
Byron Christie on February 11, 2016 at 2:07 am
Trigger would most certainly not have twigged to the Selous connection! He thinks he would but au contraire!!
Neil McVeigh on February 10, 2016 at 7:04 pm
Simon,
Certainly a case of the one that got away!By pure coincidence I was reading this afternoon Tony-Sanchez- Arino"s “Great African Calibres.”He relates a story about Selous departing for Africa,bags packed,taxi waiting outside.His new .425 from WR had only arrived an hour before his departure.Rather than leave without firing the gun,he went upstairs to his bedroom.He spied an odd-colored brick on a chimney ninety yards away .He fired five quick shots at the brick and checked the grouping with his binoculars.Satisfied with the grouping he went downstairs to get into the taxi.He was confronted by a group of anxious neighbours and a policeman.They asked him had he heard the “bangs”?Yes he said they appeared to come from a neighbouring house and promptly departed the scene in the taxi bound for Africa!
Great story if true.Was it the gun you just missed out on?
GERMAN WILDMAN on February 10, 2016 at 5:05 pm
thanks much for share friend
do you make this oneshot rifle today??
one singleshot?
selous was a true englander and true gentleman to
in germania we regard him with much much respekt
do you make them in 300, 375, 416 kalibers?
much thanks
wilhelm
Keith on February 15, 2016 at 2:05 am
Woody,
As I hunted Rhodesia in 1977 your story brings back memories of my trip there and what was going on at the time. I regret to say that the .425 you saw was not the one owned by Mr. Selous. His has a 24" barrel and is a takedown model. It’s current state is in very good condition with and exceptional bore. It does not appear to have been refinished. Someone or someones have kept it safe for close to 115 years. Simon and I have discussed taking some picture but they need to be of the quality that only Simon can do. When that is accomplished I am sure he will post them.
Keith