Charles Lancaster Pryse Pattern .450 Adams SA/DA Top Break Revolver Antique
SOLD FOR: $1335
LSB#: 211230CD02
Make: Charles Lancaster
Model: Pryse Pattern Revolver
Serial Number: WR7661
Year of Manufacture: 1879 to 1880’s
Caliber: .450 Adams
Action Type: Single or Double Action Revolver Top Break Revolver with Double Thumb Release
Markings: The left side of the cylinder retaining knob and the barrel just above it are marked with arrows having straight edges to the head of the arrow. The rear face of the barrel assembly and the mounting plate are marked “3301”. The trigger guard is marked “8074”. The left side of the barrel lug assembly “WR7661”. There are two proof marks on the left rear of the barrel, below the rib. The top of the rib is marked “CHARLES LANCASTER, 151 NEW BOND ST. LONDON”. The right side of the frame is marked “PATENT / 6276” in a diamond next to a proof mark. The rear face of the cylinder is marked “476”. There is a proofmark behind each chamber on the cylinder.
Barrel Length: The 5 ½” long barrel is octagon with a full-length barrel rib.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a rounded blade fixed to the top of the barrel’s rib. The rear sight is a “V” groove at the top rear of the top strap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grip is a one-piece checkered walnut that is elliptical in shape. The front tang runs almost the full length of the front strap. There is a steel grip cap screwed to the bottom of the grip with a stud for a lanyard ring in the center. The smooth areas of the grip show several dings and small scratches. The checkered area is dark with oil staining and shows moderate wear in the checkering yet it remains well defined. The grip rates in about Fine overall condition as Antique.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is somewhat bright with shallow but sharp rifling. There is light erosion scattered throughout the bore.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 40% of its metal finish. The leading edges have thinned completel. There are tiny dings and scratches scattered over the barrel and frame with multiple scratches in the cylinder. There is scattered finish loss throughout, replaced by light surface erosion. The trigger guard, front strap, and parts of the frame have turned a light patina. The cylinder shows similar wear to the rest of the metal with a distinct turnline. The knurling on the barrel latch levers and the hammer show light wear. The screw heads range from sharp to slightly disfigured. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun rates in about Very Good condition as Antique.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder and barrel lockup produce some play. 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: In 1879, P. Webley & Son manufactured a new range of revolvers that incorporated some of the new design features originated by Charles Pryse the previous year. One of the new features was a locking mechanism for the cylinder that prevented it from turning when the trigger was released after firing. Connection of the barrel to the frame was done with twin levers which formed tongs to engage an extension of the top strap. The pistol was popular, and it wasn’t long before others started copying the design. This is an example manufactured by Charles Lancaster of London. The revolver has a 5 ½” barrel, which we believe is chambered for .450 Adams, and retains about 40% of its original blued finish. This is a remarkable looking revolver for its vintage, and we suspect collectors of early British revolvers are going to be very interested.