R.B. RODDA – BEST SIDELOCK DOUBLE RIFLE 450-400 WITH EXTRA 500 NE BARRELS WITHTARGETS AND LOAD DATA BY KEN OWEN

A formidable and highly versatile British dangerous-game rifle — R.B. Rodda Best Sidelock Double Rifle in .450-400 Nitro Express with an additional .500 Nitro Express barrel set, fully reconditioned in the UK by Chris Soyza.

Built as a true best-quality sidelock, this Rodda embodies classic London architecture and field-ready authority. The original .450-400 barrels measure 24 inches, fitted with a quarter rib carrying one standing and three folding rear sights, and are paired with a Swarovski 1.25–4x24 scope, providing both traditional express sight capability and modern optic versatility. In this configuration, the rifle weighs 12 lbs with scope installed, delivering excellent recoil management and steady handling.

The additional .500 Nitro Express barrels, also 24 inches and configured with a matching quarter rib and one standing/three folding leaves, elevate the rifle into the upper tier of dangerous-game performance. In .500 configuration, the rifle weighs 11½ lbs, maintaining proper balance for the larger bore while preserving classic double-rifle proportions.

The rifle features double triggers, ejectors, splinter forearm, and pistol grip, and is presented in a best English leather case. Importantly, the set includes targets and load data from Ken Owen, documenting regulation and performance — a valuable addition for both collector and sportsman.

A Rodda best sidelock with dual-caliber capability offers rare flexibility: the proven versatility of the .450-400 alongside the commanding authority of the .500 NE. Fully reconditioned in the UK and properly documented, this is a serious and highly collectible British double rifle built for the most demanding field conditions.