Martini Henry Sergeant Bates Volunteer .577/450 MkIII by P. Webley, of standard military pattern with 32inch barrel secured by two barrel bands one with bayonet lug, fitted with folding ladder sight, the barrel stamped and engraved Sgt. Bates from P Webley and Son Birmingham, as well as bearing the serial number 0069 or 6900, figured walnut stock, together with leather sling, brass muzzle cap and modern hard case.
Sergeant Bates of the 1st (Birmingham) Volunteer Battalion of the Royal Warwickshire Regiment earned an outstanding and celebrated reputation as a marksman during the second half of the 19th century. His success found him a position at the Field Rifle Company as sighter and tester however by 1884 Bates was able to set up his own gunsmithing business. Here Bates was able to trade on his reputation setting up and accurising Martini Henry rifles provided by Field Rifle Company and P. Webley and son. For more information on Sergeant Bates and the provenance of this rifle please read our blog online by clicking on this link.
Dimensions: 126cm long
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Sold for £2,100
Auction: Firearms, Shotguns, Airguns, Arms and Militaria - Live Online, 10th Feb, 2022
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