Historical Breechloading

Smallarms Association

Resource Centre

 

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Thomas Wilson & Co. Straight Pull Rifle

Calibre:

 ·450" N.S.W.
Barrel length: 33¼"
Serial no.: 445

The breech action of this arm patented by Thomas Wilson on 13th November 1867 (patent number 3,211), employs a laterally moving breech bolt operating within a tubular receiver shoe. Twin locking lugs are carried on a rotating collar at the rear of the bolt, with locking recesses cut in the rear of the breech receiver. The locking collar carries its own spring for self rotation thus providing automatic locking as the bolt is closed fully home. This specimen is a later production form of the Wilson bolt action rifle tested during the Government trials of 1867-68, and is equipped with a safety catch operating behind the trigger as described in Wilson’s patent of 5th September 1868 (patent number 2,744). Sighted to 1,250 yds, with 6-groove rifling, it is marked “t. wilson & co’s patent” on the nocksform.

© H.B.S.A. 2004