JOHN RIGBY & CO 12 BORE HAMMER DOUBLE RIFLE

An exceptional and highly desirable John Rigby & Co. 12 bore hammer double rifle, manufactured in 1867 and retaining outstanding historical character, accompanied by its maker’s case and documented provenance to Capt. W. Preston of the 14th Regiment of Bombay Native Infantry.

Built with 26-inch steel barrels featuring a full-length broad flat filed rib, the rifle bears John Rigby & Co. Dublin & London engraving on the barrels and retains London black powder proofs for 13 bore. The sighting arrangement is classic and highly functional, consisting of one fixed rear express sight and three folding leaves regulated for 100, 150, and 200 yards, making this a superb example of a serious sporting rifle from the golden age of British gunmaking.

The action features a Jones underlever with Webley spring assist, paired with non-rebounding bar locks, and remains mechanically excellent. The rifle is tight and on face, with crisp locks, and the bores are bright and shiny with no pitting—a notable attribute for a rifle of this age and type. The action has aged gracefully to an attractive silver-gray patina, while the gun overall remains in very good condition, retaining most of an old refinish with only expected light handling marks.

Well-balanced at 9 lbs. 10 oz., this rifle exhibits classic British stalking rifle dimensions, including a capped pistol grip, splinter forearm, and excellent field presence. Included is the maker’s case with accessories, highlighted by a Rigby-marked round ball mould, further enhancing both desirability and collector value.

According to the owner, the rifle shoots well with both round and conical projectiles, making it not only a compelling collector’s piece but also an appealing and potentially shootable example for the enthusiast of antique British doubles.

Fine, cased Rigby hammer double rifles with documented military-era colonial provenance are increasingly difficult to encounter, particularly in this level of mechanical and bore condition.