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J. PURDEY & SONS
A RARE PATENT LIGHT GUN, NO. 10
28-inch steel barrels, the right barrel fitted with optical lens and provision for electrical contacts, the half length stock and wooden action with straight hand grip, 15-inch pull, the trigger guard engraved with maker's name and the legend "Patent Applied For", the ribbed butt plate concealing the battery compartment, 4lb. 6oz., bulbs and some electrical parts missing
James Purdey & Sons are unable to confirm how many light guns they built as shooting aids. However it is likely to have been very few. The first is known to have been built in 1929 for King George V during his convalescence from serious illness. Emitting a beam of light at the pull of the trigger the King could practice his aim and exercise his arm without having to go outdoors. The patent was further developed by Tom Purdey who took out a provisional patent in 1933. The example here has a very low number stamped on both the barrels and inside the fore-end and is also marked "Patent Applied For". |
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| Fine Modern and Vintage Sporting Guns |
| Sotheby's, New Bond Street |
| 15 December 2010 |
| Commission is 25% ex. VAT. Artist's Resale Right may apply |
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