Webley & Scott W.G. Model 1889 .45 ACP 6″ SA/DA Revolver, 1889-1891 Antique

SOLD FOR: $2225

LSB#: 210722TS60

Make: Webley & Scott

Model: Webley Government (W.G.) 1889

Serial Number: 3169

Year of Manufacture: 1889-1891 Antique

Caliber: Originally .476 Webley. The rear face of the cylinder has been relieved for use with .45 ACP in moon clips. Please note, standard .45 ACP should not be used in this revolver as it would exceed safe pressures. We always recommend that used firearms are inspected by a qualified gunsmith prior to firing. A qualified gunsmith should be able to give you a better idea of what loads, if any, are safe to fire in this revolver.

Action Type: Top Break Single/Double Action Revolver w/ Auto-Eject

Markings: The right side of the frame is marked “3169”. The top of the rib is marked “ARMY & NAVY C.S.L”. The rear left side of the barrel is marked “476”. The left side of the frame is marked “WEBLEY / PATENTS” next to the Webley & Scott winged bullet logo. The left side of the top strap is marked ““WG” MODEL 1889”. The left side of the grip under the panel is marked “1638”.

Barrel Length: 6”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a patridge style blade fixed to a riser that is integral to the top of the rib. The rear sight is U-notch at the bottom of a V-shaped groove in the latch.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered black hard rubber panels. There is a lanyard ring on the bottom of the grip. The smooth borders show even scuffs and scratches. There is some material loss on the left panel at the top rear. The left panel is shy of the frame at the bottom front corner. The checkering is generally sharp with a couple minor rubs on either side. Overall, the grips rate in about Good-Plus condition as Antique.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is dim and the rifling is worn yet visible. There is scattered erosion and pitting in the bore.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 50% of its metal finish. There is thinning at all leading edges. The barrel and frame show scattered finish loss filled by oxidation. There are several nicks and scratches throughout the metal. There is scattered light pitting on the cylinder. There is moderate operational wear. The screw heads are tool marked. The markings are legible. Overall, this handgun rates in about Very Good condition as Antique.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The barrel locks up with no perceptible play. The cylinder locks up with barely perceptible play when the trigger is depressed. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.

Our Assessment: According to Bruce & Reinhart, “Revolvers in this category were the first to carry a year of issue upon them and most weapons had the title “W.G.” MODEL 1889 stamped on the left hand side of the barrel strap. In addition to the date mentioned, this was also the first time that a Webley model has been observed to bear the letters “WG””. This model W.G. 1889 is in about Very Good condition Antique and would make a fine addition to a Webley & Scott revolver collection. Please see our photos and good luck!