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.270 WSM Westley Richards 'Plains Game' Rifle

Yet another first calibre wise for us recently was the completion of this heavy barrel plains game rifle in .270 Winchester Short Magnum. The .270 WSM is one of those cartridges born of the 'magnum' craze and was introduced in 2002 by Winchester. Based on the .300 WSM (introduced in 2001) it has the same case necked down to accept .277" bullets in the 110 to 150 grain range. Compared to the original .270 Winchester the long time favourite of gun writer Jack O'Connor, the more modern magnum version of the .270 unquestionably has greater velocity and a flatter trajectory.

This particular rifle is intended for shooting plains game out to longer ranges and has been built with a heavier barrel contour and recessed muzzle crown to assist with both stability of the rifle, whilst eking out every last ounce of accuracy.

Full deluxe scroll coverage with gold lettering is complemented with the usual mix of blacking, light bluing and case colour hardening.  

Interestingly the oversized case of the .270 WSM means that to keep your rifle trim looking, you normally end up with a 3 plus 1 capacity. An extended magazine box can be fitted, but this can make a rifle look unnecessarily ugly. In this instance we agreed with the client in keeping the rifle as elegant as we could whilst allowing him sufficient capacity.

With all the recent happenings it looks like the rifle will not be seeing action until 2021, but at least the gives the client time to hone his long range skills!

Highly contrasting figure works well with a slightly fuller forend to balance out the overall increase in the barrel dimensions. 

The Grants Gazelle (nanger granti) of East Africa makes a nice change of game scene for this heavyweight plains game rifle. First discovered in the late 1800's by Scottish explorer and adventurer Lt.Col.James Augustus Grant, the current population extends from the Southern Sudan down to Northern Tanzania.

Complete in its lightweight leather case with full accessories the rifle makes for a very striking yet traditional package.

The original .270 Winchester cartridge on the left introduced in 1925 (developed in 1923), compared to the .270 Winchester Short Magnum introduced in 2002.

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 shotgundouble 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.

2 Comments

  • Robbie de Villiers on June 16, 2020 at 12:20 pm

    Hi Trigger
    You built me a beautiful rifle and I love it. What I love more is that this .270 WSM shoots even better than it looks. I asked you for an accurate rifle and you delivered, as you always do, with every project we undertake together. I appreciate and cherish another exquisite Westley Richards piece of art you made for me. Greatly appreciated.
    Regards
    RDV

  • Peter Buckley. on June 24, 2020 at 11:19 am

    Trigger

    A unique Westley Richards rifle in .270 WSM then, stunning rifle and l agree you have kept it very elegant !
    I’m sure the client is most impressed !

    Yet another first for Westley.

    Very best regards

    Peter.

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