Robert Hughes
Volunteer pattern officer grade Snider Enfield carbine.
Judging the quality of finish and checkering on the stock, the carbine was privately purchased by an English officer.
The "volunteer pattern", or "commercial pattern" rifles and carbines were sold by many British retailers, such as the Army & Navy Stores.
The carbine was manufactured by Robert Hughes in Birmingham, as indicated by a cartouche on the right side of the buttstock, "Rob-t Hughes Universal Fire Arm Works Birmingham", and on the lockplate, "R. Hughes". The breech displays "SNIDER PATENT" markings with "Arrow S" mark.
Birmingham commercial proof marks are stamped on the breech, chamber and barrel. The stock is manufactured from a nice grade of wood. High quality finish on the stock (typical for English officer grade rifles). Beautiful diamond checkering at the wrist and on the forestock. Very nice floral style engraving on the lockplate, hammer, trigger guard, breech and buttplate.
Correct military carbine style adjustable rear sights. Early, Pattern II style non-bolted action without the latch on the left side of the breech.
Steel barrel rifled with 5 grooves. Steel buttplate without a trap. Steel trigger guard. One barrel band. The carbine was manufactured without the sling swivels.
Many thanks to "COLLECTIBLEFIREARMS" for the nice pictures.
