Webley & Scott Mark V MKV MK-V .455 SA/DA Service Revolver, MFD 1914 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1626
LSB#: 210918MW49
Make: Webley
Model: Mark V Service Revolver
Serial Number: 137016
Year of Manufacture: 1914 C&R
Caliber: .455 Webley
Action Type: Thumb-Lever Latch Top-Break, Auto Ejecting, Single & Double Action Revolver
Markings: The left of the topstrap is marked with crossed flags over “P”, broad arrow, a British proof, and “MARK”V””. The left of the frame is marked “WEBLEY / MARK V / PATENTS / 1914”. The bottom of the frame in front of the trigger guard, the edge of the cylinder, and the front face of the barrel assembly at the hinge are marked “137016”. There are scattered British proof marks including one behind each cylinder flute and broad arrows on most parts. The left side of the barrel is marked “ENGLAND”.
Barrel Length: 4″
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade atop a riser that is integral to the rib. The rear sight is a U-notch at the top of the frame latch.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered hard rubber panels. The left panel has turned a brownish color from age and the right panel has scattered discoloration and finish loss. There are some scattered nicks and scratches throughout and the checkering is generally well defined. There is a split in the bottom of the right panel and two small ones around the grip screw escutcheon. Overall, the grips are in about Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is somewhat bright with well defined rifling. There is scattered minor erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 90% of its metal finish. There is light thinning at the leading edges. There are some scattered spots of erosion, notably on the sides of the frame and on the trigger guard. The trigger guard also shows little nicks and scratches. There are other tiny marks dispersed about the metal. The markings are mostly legible aside from some that are poorly struck. The screw heads range from sharp to lightly tool marked. Overall, this revolver is in about Very Good-plus condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder lockup shows hardly any play when the trigger is depressed. The barrel has light play to the frame. The double action trigger pull is smooth and the single action trigger is crisp. 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: P. Webley and Son received their first contract to produce the hinged frame Mark I revolver for the British Government in 1887. From lessons learned with this revolver and from their W.G. line of commercial revolvers, continual improvement in the design occurred. The Mark V was introduced in 1913 and had remarkably little alteration made to the design of the Mark IV. The new version retained the 4” barrel yet weighed .5 ounces heavier due to its heavier cylinder. This is a Mark V revolver in about Very Good-Plus condition, showing light wear for its age and having solid mechanics. This pistol should be of interest to collectors of Webley revolvers and to those interested in British service weapons. Please see our photos and good luck!