Holland & Holland, Double Rifle, .450 BPE, Mfg. 1882, Matching Serials

Holland & Holland Antique Double Rifle

Chambered in .450 Black Powder Express (BPE)
Break Action w/ Shell Extractors
26" Barrels
Pinfire
Exposed Hammers (rebounding type)
Dual Hammer Safety Locks
Dual Triggers (Front – Right, Rear – Left)
Matching Serial Numbers (SN: 7723)
Manufactured in 1882 by Holland & Holland of London (according to H&H records)
Slotted Blade Ramp Front Sight
Fixed Blade Rear Sight with Two Fold Up Leaves for Elevation Adjustment (200m and 250m [could be yards])
Empty Weight: 7lb 12oz
Overall Length: 43"
Length of Pull: 14" & 15"
Engraving on Right Barrel: “98 New Bond Street, London”
Engraving on Left Barrel: “Winners of the field rifle trials, London, 1883”
Engraving on Left Side of Receiver: “Charge 4 Drams Case 3 ¼ Inches”

I passed this rifle off to my gunsmith for a complete inspection and cleaning. He cleaned up some light rust that was found during the inspection. Calcified grease was cleaned out and replaced with new lubricants. now all controls function as intended, smoothly. The barrels have some light speckling where corrosion was removed. And the right barrel has an area of worn finish that's distinct from condition around that area. There are a some light dings and scratches in the wood…but all in all, pretty good shape considering the age. Gunsmith reported some light pitting in the barrel, which he stated is normal for old blackpowder rifles. But the bore is shiny, and the chambers are “perfect”. There are no dents or dings in the barrel. Gunsmith stated the springs are super strong and none are broken.