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** Crimean War Era** 1856 Dated, Tower Enfield, 2nd Pattern 1853, 3 Band .577 Percussion Calibre Rifle. Sn 23665 - 23665 This is a Crimean War era Tower, 2nd Pattern 1853, 3 Band percussion rifle that was produced from 1855 to 1858, until it was replaced by the Third model. The 2nd pattern is distinctive in having the solid barrel bands retained by spring clips inletted into the stock. The 1st, 3rd and 4th models all had screw clamping barrel bands. The rifle measures 55” long with a 39” barrel. The double lined lock plate is stamped With Queens Crown VR (Victoria Regina) TOWER 1856 (date). The rifle is complete with its original 900 yards ladder rear sight, block and blade fore sight, sling swivels and cleaning rod. The rifle has its original brass butt plate, fore end block and trigger guard with extended tang. The fore end cap is the correct brass one retained by two iron rivets retaining it in the fore end. The barrel bears Tower proof marks near the breech and has 3 groove rifling with staining from service use. The cocking and firing actions are crisp and the woodwork is in good condition with only the minor marks from service use. See 69 page 50, item 48 in British Military Longarms 1815-1865 by D.W.Bailey for a full description and Section A, Muzzle Loading Arms items RB 33 in Catalogue of the Enfield Pattern Room, British Rifles, published by Her Majesty’s Stationary Office. The price includes UK delivery. NB This is an antique percussion rifle and no licence is required to own it in the UK if retained as a part of a collection or display. Sn 23665 £695.00
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