description

Pre-WWII George Gibbs .450 3 ¼" NE Second Quality High Velocity Double Rifle. Based on the venerable Webley & Scott Long-Bar, boxlock action with a Doll’s Head Screw-Grip third fastener, disk-set strikers, intercepting sears, a manual safety, and two triggers cast for the RH shooter. The action and furniture are engraved in a very well cut, small traditional scroll pattern.  

The original 28” barrels have a full-length hand filed rib with an island rear sight with 1 standing/2 folding leaves (100, 200, 300 yds) and lined in platinum. Ramp front sight has a flip up “Moon” sight. The barrel is engraved with the Maker’s name and the 39 Corn Street address (ca. 1930-1942) with the cartridge and load engraved on the barrels as well.  

The nicely figured walnut stock has a traditionally shaped, beaded cheekpiece, traditional drop points, and a full pistol grip with a full-length guard tang that extends to the solid steel grip cap. The forend has a screw-grip forend latch and nicely shaped bolsters at the rear, by the forend iron. 

According to Nigel Brown’s British Gunmakers, Volume 1 – London, Gibbs rifles with a “B” prefix in the serial number were either partially or entirely made by another maker, outside of the Gibbs’ factory. In addition to the “B” pre-fix Gibbs’ serial number, this rifle also bears another number on the underside of the barrel and various parts, which is most likely a Webley & Scott number.  

At 10 lbs. 8.4 oz., the rifleis much handier than the 28" barrels would suggest. A testament to the nuances put into guns and rifles made in this era. 

The rifle retains good traces of original color, that is especially strong in protected areas. Black and Nitre blue on the furniture and pins appear original. The engraving is very well executed and remains very sharp. The stock is original but has been refinished with a modern leather covered pad installed. The bores are excellent, the barrels are tight on face, and the ejectors are timed and strong. The barrels show evidence of an old re-black. Overall, this rifle is in excellent condition. 

A great vintage rifle chambered in one of sporting history’s great big game cartridges and built on one of gunmaking history’s great hammerless actions. 

share