Product Details
DANL. FRASER & CO.
A FINE AND RARE .450 / 400 (3 1/4IN.) BLACK POWDER EXPRESS 1880 PATENT SIDELEVER TAKE-DOWN FALLING-BLOCK SPORTING RIFLE, serial no. 1731,
26 1/8in. black powder only barrel with raised partially matted rib with acanthus scroll detailing, engraved 'DANL. FRASER & CO. 4 LEITH ST. TERRACE. EDINBURGH.', matted inlaid open sights with folding leaf sight for 100 and 300 yards, ramped bead fore-sight with detachable cover, patent telescopic sight bases, with contemporary telescopic sight in with quickly detachable mounts (fitted for rifle serial no. 1290, not compatible for 1731) with sprung leather covered eyepiece, the tube engraved 'D. & J. FRASER MAKERS EDINBURGH. BY ROYAL LETTER PATENT', Fraser patent sidelever falling block action, patent no. 5403 of 23rd December 1880, use number 231, bolted automatic safety with blued and brass 'SAFE' detail, partially chequered trigger, fine and bold acanthus scroll engraving with ropework borders, the action engraved 'FRASER'S PATENT NO. 231', the triggerguard engraved with the serial number, retaining some original colour-hardening and finish, 14 1/4in. well-figured pistolgrip stock with cheekpiece, horn pistolgrip-cap, floral engraved sling eye, 1 1/8in. horn and rubber buttpad, fore-end with fluted horn finial and engraved Deeley & Edge patent release catch, weight 7lb. 8oz., in its oak lined leather take down case with some accessories, including ebony striker pot with spare firing pin
Other Notes: Current research suggests that only around four hundred Fraser patent falling block rifles were ever produced. Daniel Fraser died in 1902 and although the company continued in business under the guidance of Daniel Fraser's son, Donald, for nine years, it is surmised that most of the falling block rifles were made during Daniel's lifetime.
Estimate £8,000-12,000