WOODWARD – BEST PRE WAR DOUBLE RIFLE 450-400 3″ WITH EXTRA 470 BARRELS WITH TARGETS AND LOAD DATA BY KEN OWEN

An extraordinary London best with exceptional versatility — James Woodward & Sons Pre-War Best Double Rifle in .450-400 3" Nitro Express with an additional .470 Nitro Express barrel set, fully reconditioned in the UK by Chris Soyza.

Originally built as a .450-400 3" NE, the rifle retains its 25" barrels with quarter rib carrying one standing and one folding rear sight, preserving the classic medium-bore safari configuration. It is additionally fitted with a Swarovski 1.25–4x30mm scope in claw mounts, allowing seamless transition between optic and iron sights without compromising traditional aesthetics.

The added .470 NE barrels, also 25" with quarter rib and one standing/one folding sight — and incorporating a Westley-style night sight — provide a second, more authoritative dangerous-game option in the same action. The rifle is accompanied by targets and load data from Ken Owen, an important inclusion that documents regulation and performance for both calibers.

Configuration remains true to London best standards with double triggers, ejectors, splinter forearm, and pistol grip, all housed in a best English leather case. The rifle weighs 10 lbs in .450-400 configuration and 10 lbs 3 oz in .470, maintaining excellent balance in both chamberings.

A pre-war Woodward double rifle represents the pinnacle of London craftsmanship. With professional UK reconditioning, dual-caliber capability, documented regulation data, and modern claw-mounted optics, this example offers rare flexibility while preserving its historic best-gun pedigree — a truly elite sporting arm for the collector or serious sportsman.