Isaac I. Hollis & Sons 577/450 Marini Henry Sporting Rifle, 1890-1911 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1275
LSB#: 210419FW49
Make: Isaac Hollis & Sons
Model: Martini-Action Sporting Rifle
Serial Number: None.
Year of Manufacture: Ca. 1890-1911
Caliber: .577-450 Martini Henry
Action Type: Lever-Actuated Falling Block Rifle
Markings: The top of the barrel rib is marked “I. HOLLIS & SONS. BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND.”. The receiver and breech-block have British proof marks. The receiver and lever have decorative engraving.
Barrel Length: 28″, Solid Rib
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade with a white bead, dovetailed to the front of the rib. The rear sight is a “V” notch integral to a long base, dovetailed to the rear of the rib. The top of the rib has wavy serrations for glare reduction.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece checkered walnut with ebony forend tip, semi-pistol grip, straight comb, textured steel buttplate with trapdoor storage compartment, and a sling stud in the belly (there is also a sling eyelet mounted to the bottom of the barrel). The stocks have some scattered light nicks, dings, scuffs and scratches with a few more notable dings in the belly and a bruise in the left of the buttstock toward the rear. The checkering is worn, but visible. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 14 1/4″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The plate has mostly gone to a light patina with scattered light wear and erosion. Overall, the stocks are in about Good-Very Good condition as refinished.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Refinished
Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the Henry rifling is sharp. There is some scattered minor erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 40% of its current metal finish. The barrel and lever have a mottled appearance with some blued finish and some areas showing discoloration from oxidation. The receiver’s finish is generally strong. The breech-block is bright. There are some scattered light nicks, scuffs and scratches. The action shows operational wear. The screw heads are tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle is in about Good-Very Good condition as refinished.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this rifle. As with all previously owned firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: Isaac Hollis was a gun maker who first formed a partnership with his brother in 1840, and was successful, holding several patents. In 1861, he formed Isaac Hollis & Sons, and this name lasted until 1911. This is a nice example of Hollis’ work, a Martini-action sporting rifle chambered for 577-450 Martini Henry. More than a century after it was made, it still locks up tight with a surprisingly strong bore, and strong mechanics. This will make a great addition to a collection of early European cartridge sporting arms. Please see our photos and good luck!