British Westley Richards "Monkey Tail" Pistol (AH6411)

This very interesting and rarely seen 451 caliber percussion breech-loading Westley Richards Patent "monkey tail" pistol with a ramrod is a great example of the transition from percussion to cartridge ignition. The overall length is approx. 15". The approx. 8.75" square breech to round barrel has a fine bore with bright, strong rifling with light erosion in the grooves. The barrel has a large blade front sight. There is a rear sighting notch on the rear of the breech. The barrel is marked WHITWORTH PATENT on the top, .451 on the left forward of the breech, and what appears to be .175 on the right. The barrel is smooth and bright with light to medium staining. The breech block has the serial number, 327, two Birmingham proofs, and the bore size (52) marked on the left side. The top left is marked 25 GRAINS. The spring loaded breech lever ("monkey tail") is marked WESTLEY RICHARDS over PATENT. The lock, which is bright with light staining, is marked WESTLEY RICHARDS & Co in the center and 1867 within a triangle at the tail. The brass nose cap, trigger guard, and butt cap have an even patina. The rear trigger guard strap has the serial number. The trigger face is checkered. The stock is very good with light use dents and dings and no chips or cracks. The butt swivel and ring and side swivel and ring are present. The action functions correctly. This is a very nice example of this interesting action type that is usually seen on rifles. It is rarely seen on pistols such as this one.