Webley Royal Irish Constabulary (RIC) Model .450 CF 4.5″ Revolver Antique

More Sold Fine European Arms

SOLD FOR: $1,025.00

LSB#: LSB251220TO126

Make: Webley & Scott

Model: Royal Irish Constabulary (RIC) Model, No 1

Serial Number: 4356

Year of Manufacture: 1867-1872 / Antique

Caliber: .450 C.F.

Action Type: Single or Double Action SA/DA 6-shot Revolver with side loading gate.

Markings: The right side of the frame is marked “4356” / WEBLEY’S / RIC / No. 1 .450 CF” with the Webley & Scott logo. The cylinder is marked with the partial serial number “356”.

Barrel Length: 4 1/2”

Sights/Optics: The front sight is a rounded blade pinned to a base that is attached to the barrel. The rear sight is a V-notch that is integral to the topstrap.

Stock Configuration and Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered wood panels. The checkering peaks are worn but still deep. There are multiple compression marks, dings and scratches. There are no cracks or chips. There is a lanyard ring on the bottom of the grip. Overall, the grips rate in Good to Fair condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is still sharp. There is a fair amount of erosion present throughout the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 6/10.

Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 70% of its metal finish. The blue has turned to a mottled brownish patina, particularly on the barrel. There are some freckles of oxidation forming on the frame and cylinder. There are multiple scratches all along the metal surfaces mixed with blue fading to patina. Overall, this revolver rates in Good condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder locks up with some play on each chamber with the trigger depressed. The single action is crisp and the double action is smooth. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: None.

Our Assessment: The Webley RIC Model No.1 revolver is one of the earliest successful British cartridge revolvers, introduced during the transition from percussion to metallic cartridge firearms. Produced by Webley & Scott beginning in 1866, the Royal Irish Constabulary model was originally designed for police use but quickly gained widespread popularity among military officers and civilians throughout the British Empire. Its solid frame construction, side loading gate, and double action capability made it a rugged and practical sidearm for its time.

These revolvers saw extensive service across the globe, including use by British officers and mounted troops in colonial conflicts such as the Anglo-Zulu War. At a time when officers were often responsible for purchasing their own sidearms, the RIC earned a strong reputation for reliability, durability, and compact handling. Produced in several calibers including .450 centerfire, the design was widely copied and helped establish Webley’s long-standing reputation for quality revolvers that would continue into the 20th century.

This example shows solid overall condition for an antique revolver, retaining a notable amount of finish with areas transitioning to a patina. The bore remains serviceable with visible rifling, and the action functions correctly in both single and double action. With its historical significance, early cartridge design, and association with British imperial service, it represents a desirable piece for collectors of antique revolvers and military sidearms. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids!