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Webley RIC revolver questions

MarvMarv Member Posts: 76 ✭✭
edited October 2007 in Ask the Experts
I found and purchased a Webley RIC No.1 (old model) .450 CF and have been unable to find much information on it. I hope one of you may be able to help; or, possibly, point me in the right direction on my quest for information.

The gun is nickel plated and has a 3 1/2" barrel. It has "F.T. Baker Gun Manufacturer - London " on the top strap but was made by Webley as it has their "winged bullet" logo and W&S markings. The serial # is 167XX and it has the bolt notches on the front edge of the cylinder. The gun is in remarkable shape. It may be unfired and except for a couple of blemishes on the frame and the normal surface swirls, the nickel plating is near perfect. It came in a fitted Webley case. Unfortunately, the oil bottle, screw turn and cleaning rod are missing.

I would like to know 1.) When it was made, 2.) approximate value, and 3.) I need a parts list or exploded diagram, if available, or the name of a gunsmith that may know about these old revolvers. When purchased the cylinder bolt would not lift and lock the cylinder. Crud cutter didn't help and when I removed the trigger guard to inspect the bolt and spring, the bolt spring dropped out. It doesn't appear to be broken and I'm not sure how it drops or goes back in. I'm reluctant to try anything that may break the spring if my original assessment that it is still good is correct.

Thanks

Comments

  • rufe-snowrufe-snow Member Posts: 18,650 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    No. 1 Model, ( Cylinder locking notches in front ), was made between 1867 & 1880.

    "F. T. Baker", was Frederick Thomas Baker. He was a London gunmaker in business from the late 1850's until some time in the early 20th Century.

    Quality photos would help, for appraisal. To find any firearm that is over 125+ years old in the original "unfired" condition you describe is uncommon.
  • MarvMarv Member Posts: 76 ✭✭
    edited November -1
    My digital camera isn't much, but I will try posting some photos later tonight.
  • MarvMarv Member Posts: 76 ✭✭
    edited November -1
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  • rufe-snowrufe-snow Member Posts: 18,650 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    The revolver does appear to be in excellent condition, for it's apparent age. The only thing that puzzles me is the lack of British proof marks. You would expect to see either London or Birmingham proofs on this revolver. If their are none? There is always the possibility that the other markings are spurious
  • v35v35 Member Posts: 12,710 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    Nice set. I have a box of UMC Blue label 450 Webley somewhere that should take the glint off that bore and chambers.
    Nice find.
    Trigger guards are often used to hold a V spring against a projection on the trigger to cause it to rebound.
    In your case, I suspect one wing of the V spring would act on the front part of the cylinder lock, forcing it upwards. Look for a nest or cutout in the triggerguard for the spring to sit in.
    It looks somewhat like a Webley Constabulary model I sold Val Forgett
    in the late '50s except mine was blued.
  • hrfhrf Member Posts: 857 ✭✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    rufe-snow the proofs are there; in 2nd pic you can see a Birmingham proof on rear of cylinder and the view and proof marks on left side of barrel.
  • joel_blackjoel_black Member Posts: 686 ✭✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    As you can see its a simple leaf spring held in by the triggerguard. Your revolver is an excellent example of the first model Webley RIC No. 1. It was made in the early 1870s. The case is correct, but not the screwdriver.
    RICNO1MECH.jpg
  • MarvMarv Member Posts: 76 ✭✭
    edited November -1
    Thank you one and all for the info and a special thanks the joel_black. His diagram was most helpful. The V-Spring that I thought did double duty is apparently a trigger rebound spring only. A leaf spring on the cylinder bolt is missing and will need attention.
  • joel_blackjoel_black Member Posts: 686 ✭✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    You're welcome. If you need any other info, please feel free to ask. I am in the middle of writing a book on Webley solid frame revovers.
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