Westley Richards, a very famed English gunmaker (1814-1897) took over the family gun business from his father, William, in 1840. The famous "monkey tail" weapons were patented in 1858 and by 1864 the percussion weapons were modified to also use rim fire cartridges. The percussion gun underwent extensive field trials by the British Army in 1861 and by 1866, the carbine was officially adopted as the weapon of choice for the British cavalry. The weapons were still in use as late as the 1880's by yeomanry cavalry units and saw extensive service in South Africa well into the Boer War years. In 1867, the carbine was also the standard weapon of Portugese military. At present, the price range for a standard pattern is generally in the $1,800 to $2,600 range for an example in good overall condition. Premium examples (with over 70% finish) can retail into the $4,500 range. Hope this helps!
Estas pessoas agradeceram este comentário: joaosantos