Whitworth Database Updates – 2025

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Whitworth Research Project – database management summary 2025.

  • A Whitworth rifle was brought to my attention by the new owner. The serial number is within the range of those known to have been exported to the US during the Civil War. The rifle has a WHITWORTH RIFLE Co MANCHESTER lock and fittings for Davidson scope mounts. It has however seen significant post-war modification (or perhaps ‘repair’ due to damage / neglect?). The butt stock has been replaced/shaped into an American “Kentucky” style and fitted with a new buttplate and a patchbox. It had the original trigger guard plate replaced to accommodate a double set trigger. The barrel is slightly shortened. None the less, it is an interesting survivor and new to the Whitworth rifle database. 18 January 2025
  • The new owner of military target rifle C7** has made contact and records have bene updated. 15 February 2025
  • A military rifle (6** serial no.) with lock marked WHITWORTH 1860 was first recorded in the database in 2000. No photographs were however on record. This has now been updated courtesy of the new owner. 21 February 2025
  • Data and photographs of a previously unrecorded sporting rifle (7** serial no.) has been added to the database. The rifle has been in a private collection for over 30 years. 1 March 2025
  • The scant database records for a c1859 military target rifle (3** serial no.) with a 39 inch barrel have been updated with new information. 3 March 2025
  • Semi-Military rifle C7** was recorded as sold in Australia in 2007. This rifle was resold post 2014 in the US. Photographs and details have been updated from the US sellers advert, and attempts have been, made to confirm what year the sale took place. 8 March 2025
  • Some information of a Pattern 1863 Enfield-Whitworth has been added to the database. Underside of barrel details including serial number and date are not yet available. The barrel has however been re-sleeved (so may no longer be hexagonal bore?). It carries an unknow serial number 6116. To be sold by Holts (in March). 8 March 2025

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To Working Gunmakers, 1860

“WANTED – TO WORKING GUNMAKERS – Wanted several Screwers and Finishers by the Whitworth Rifle Company, Sackville-street, Manchester. Apply personally or by letter. The best London prices are given.” ~ advert in Birmingham Journal – Saturday 1 December 1860.