Webley Model Mark VI MKVI MK VI .455 6″ SA/DA Blue Revolver, MFD 1917 C&R
SOLD FOR: $2000
LSB#: 210917MW54
Make: Webley
Model: Mark VI
Serial Number: 522816
Year of Manufacture: 1917 C&R
Caliber: .455 Webley
Action Type: Single or Double Action Top Break Revolver with Left Side Thumb Release
Markings: The left side of the top strap is marked “’17”, a “Crown / GR / Crossed Flags / P” proof mark, broad arrow, and “MARK VI”. There are proof and inspection marks on the outside of the cylinder behind each flute, on the bottom of the wings on each side of the barrel at the rear. The outside of the cylinder, bottom of the frame in front of the trigger guard and the front face of the barrel lug are each marked with the serial number. There are scattered broad arrows and British proofs on various parts of the gun. The left side of the frame is marked “WEBLEY / MARK VI / PATENTS / 1917”. The front of the barrel assembly and bottom of the frame are marked with the serial number.
Barrel Length: 6”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade screw set to a raised slotted base on the barrel rib. The rear sight is a “U” notch at the bottom of a “V” in the top of the top strap latch.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are black checkered hard rubber with a smooth diamond around the grip screw escutcheon on each side. There is a large chip in the bottom of the right panel. The grips have scattered light nicks, scuffs and scratches. The panels have taken a brownish hue from age. The checkering is generally well defined except where interrupted. The grips rate in about Fair-Good condition and would rate higher if not for the mentioned chip.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is well defined. There is infrequent minor erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 15% of its metal finish. The majority of the surfaces have turned to a light patina. The remaining blue is in protected areas. The cylinder is almost worn bright. All leading edges have thinned. There are scattered light nicks and scratches throughout. The screw heads range from sharp to slightly disfigured with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in about Fair-Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder lock-up shows some play when the trigger is depressed. There is no play in the barrel lock-up. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The Webley MK VI revolver, chambered in .455 Webley, served the British Military through WWI, and into the inter-war years. This revolver has a big, strong action and although the .455 round had good stopping power, the British decided to replace it with the Enfield No. 2, firing a .38/200 cartridge, which was identical to the .38 S&W except for the weight of the bullet. They wanted a smaller revolver that wouldn’t intimidate new recruits learning to shoot a revolver for the first time. This MK VI is in about Fair condition and even though the finish is gone, the bore remains bright and the mechanics are sound. The cylinder lock-up shows a small amount of play and the barrel lockup is solid. This revolver has both English acceptance marks on the frame and barrel, and the cylinder, frame and barrel serial numbers are matching. This will make a nice addition to a collection of English vintage service revolvers, especially as many of these which have made their way across the pond were modified to use more popular American calibers. This example is still chambered for the original .455 Webley cartridge, a feature which is becoming more and more uncommon here in the States. Please see our photos and good luck!