barrel length 71 cm (28"), stock length 39 cm (15 5/16"), overall length 116,5 cm (45,75"), weight 5,4 kg, year of manufacture 1913, british nitro proof, condition 2
Frosted wide rib, engraved maker's name, regulated for 500grs bullets, express sights with 2 additional hinged rear sights inscribed 200 and 500 (yds), ejectors, doll head with additional latch for increased safety and reliability (introduced as a new standard at Rigby after 1920), color case hardened base with typical arabesque engraving, acanthus leaf carved fences, ham shaped "dipped edge" lock plates, bar-action sidelocks and sear, disc-set strikers, double trigger, automatic sliding tang safety, gold inlaid "Safe", straight grained walnut stock with drop points, pistol grip, rubber recoil pad, Monte-Carlo butt plate and oval cheek piece, fore-end with turning lever lock, blank gold stock monogram plate, sling swivels, in a linen case with trade label and all accessories, completed 18.09.1913 for Lord Dunsay, with the following data: Cal. 470 NE, 28in barrels, 15 5/16 in stock, 11lb-10oz. According to the previous owner, the modification to the buttstock and cheekpiece was made by Paul Roberts without changing the dimensions of the gun.
Made for Edward John Moreton Drax Plunkett better known as Lord Dunsany. The writer and nobleman was known for his short stories. Especially in the fantasy genre, his works influenced writers such as H. P. Lovecraft, J.R.R. Tolkien, and writer and director Guillermo del Toro, among others. The 18th Baron of one of Ireland's oldest noble houses was also a gifted marksman, national pistol champion and versatile hunter. Besides his home hunting grounds, his travels also took him to Africa. Undoubtedly the address at which one would want to carry an outstanding hunting weapon such as this 470 NE as a companion. According to the records, Lord Dunsany ordered two other rifles at the same time (a .350 Magnum Rigby and a .275 Rigby) in addition to the large caliber double rifle shown here. Then as now, John Rigby & Co is considered a top address for hunting weapons, especially when it comes to dangerous game. The historical information was kindly confirmed and provided by John Rigby & Co LTD (Showroom & Museum, 13-19 Pensbury Place, London, UK).
Legendary luxury big game rifle in the then newly developed caliber that replaced Rigby's own .450 NE for legislative reasons and has remained the most popular double rifle caliber for dangerous game to this day.

Category: Other Rifles