Superb B. Woodward & Sons British .69 caliber octagon barrel, half stock percussion sporting/stalking rifle. B. Woodward & Sons were famed British makers located in Birmingham, England from 1847-1862. It is possible that after this time they moved to London because they exhibited their firearms in the International Exhibition, London in 1862. This exceptional rifle features an approximately 31” octagon barrel of fine “twist steel” only encountered on Best Quality rifles. The barrel is fitted with a three leaf express rear sight and a small blade front sight. In British style, the stock has a smooth steel shotgun butt plate and iron trigger guard. The barrel is held by a “key” through the forearm. The iron side lock is marked with the “B. Woodward & Sons” name and the top of the barrel is stamped “LONDON.” Further, the lock and hammer are profusely master-engraved with scrolls as is the entire bottom of the trigger guard, upper tang, rear top flat of the barrel and top of the butt plate where it protect the that portion of the stock comb. The stock is fancy grade walnut and checkered at the wrist. The lock also features a sliding safety bar to hold the hammer securely at half-cock. This is a serious large bore hunting rifle made light for extended carry in the highlands of Scotland or in India or on the African Continent. While having seen use, the overall condition of this extraordinary piece is excellent. The walnut retains the original finish and is in solid condition. The original browned finish on the twist pattern rifled barrel is all distinct, engraving is sharp, and action and safety are crisp. The top of the wrist has an inletted silver initial plate. The original brass tipped ramrod is mounted under the barrel and held by two original thimbles. The rifled bore is slightly dark and would rate at least, fine+. This outstanding British Best big game rifle weighs a scant 7 lbs. and typifies the quality of the finest of British rifles from the pre-cartridge, black powder muzzle loading days. A rare opportunity to purchase this kind of hand-built quality and condition by a well known British maker from the time when “the sun never set on the British Empire.” Museum worthy. This firearm qualifies as an antique, and does not require FFL Transfer or NICS Background Check.*