Ballard 1885 LT EX TD .450-400 3″ Falling Block Take-Down Rifle Grade 3
SOLD FOR: $2,676.00
LSB#: LSB250515JB058
Make: Ballard Rifle & Cartridge Co., Inc.
Model: 1885 LT EX TD (Take-Down)
Serial Number: 1055
Year of Manufacture: 1996-2009 (Cody, WY Manufacture)
Caliber: .450-400 3” Nitro Express
Action Type: Falling Block, Single Shot, Take-Down
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “.450-400 3″”. The upper tang is marked “Ballard Rifle & Cartridge Co Inc Cody Wyoming USA”.
Barrel Length: 28”
Sights / Optics: The rifle appears to be configured for either iron sights or scope mounting, depending on user preference. Please verify exact sight configuration.
Stock Configuration & Condition: This rifle features beautifully figured Grade 3 walnut furniture with a straight grip buttstock and matching forearm. The wood shows only minor handling marks, with a smooth satin finish that complements the elegant lines of the rifle. There is a small dent in the forearm, left side near the ebony cap. The buttstock is fitted with a red Pachmayr recoil pad, offering comfort under recoil. Fit and finish throughout are excellent, and the stock rates in Excellent overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blued barrel and color case hardened receiver
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is some light fouling present, but no visible erosion. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9.5/10.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly and smoothly. The falling block locks up tight, and the trigger is crisp. This rifle is built on a take-down frame, allowing for tool-less barrel removal from the receiver for ease of transport and cleaning. The mechanism is precise and secure. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Accessories Included: Original owner’s manual and a full leather Brooks & Thomas Classic Gun Case in Excellent condition. (Please note, the buttpad prevents the rifle from fitting in the case while taken down).
Our Assessment: This Ballard 1885 LT EX TD is a finely crafted single-shot rifle, built in Cody, Wyoming, by the Ballard Rifle & Cartridge Co. (Now Known as Wyoming Armory). It’s chambered in the legendary .450-400 3” Nitro Express, a classic cartridge from the golden era of safari hunting. This rifle’s take-down feature allows it to be easily broken down into two major components, making it ideal for travel or field maintenance, especially in remote hunting environments. With its premium wood, excellent fit and finish, and robust falling block action, this Ballard is both a work of art and a working tool.
The .450-400 3” Nitro Express cartridge is a proven performer in the realm of dangerous game hunting. Originally introduced in the late 19th century, it has been favored for its deep penetration, manageable recoil, and reliable stopping power. Modern factory loads from Hornady, such as their 400-grain Dangerous Game Solid (DGS), deliver approximately 2,050 fps and 3,732 ft-lbs of energy—more than capable of handling large and dangerous game like Cape buffalo and elephant when used with solid bullets, or expanding DGX loads for thick-skinned game. Its performance remains relevant today for both traditionalists and modern big-game hunters alike.
Whether you’re an African safari hunter, a connoisseur of classic cartridge design, or a single-shot rifle collector, this Ballard 1885 Take-Down offers a rare combination of heritage, craftsmanship, and practicality. Its chambering, condition, and construction make it equally at home in the field or in a fine rifle collection. So bid high and bid firm. I highly recommend that you review the item’s condition using our high-quality photos. Good luck with your bid. -K.F.
