Scarce Forehand & Wadsworth Drop Breach 32 RF Rifle & Rare Tool

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• Price: $1,295.00
• Maker: F&W
• Model: Drop Breach
• Caliber: .32 RF


• Description: Serial #1023, .32 Rim Fire, 24 inch part octagon / part round barrel with a very good frosted bore with strong rifling. This is the dropping block or dropping breech rifle manufactured by Forehand and Wadsworth, successors to Allen & Wheelock who patented the action on September 18, 1860 (marked on the frame) with production of various models and calibers sold under both maker names. This rifle represents the last version likely manufactured in the early to mid 1870's and is an excellent example. The barrel retains about 93-95% of the original blue finish which has thinned around the muzzle and along the high facet edges with some very minor scattered scratches and marks. The nickel plated frame, forend cap and butt stock retain 95-97% of the original finish with some loss near the hammer screw on the frame and on the high edges. The hammer shows traces of the original bright nitre blue visible on the concealed links within the lever mechanism. The lever has mellowed to a pleasing gray with the breech block itself now plum-brown. The stock shows a beautifully figured walnut with some very mild surface marks and contusions with the forearm having an added metal stabilizing band for deep cracks that have been expertly glued on the inside. All visible numbered parts are matching including the barrel, wood forearm, breech block and lever link. The original take down tool is present and stored in the hinged trapdoor in the butt plate. It has the original flip up rear and blade front sights. The rifle lever and dropping block mechanism functions properly and has a tight lock up. A splendid example of this innovative sporting rifle. Antique