Another BSA underlever!

[Mike95]

Must be the weather! My neighbour approached me today with a BSA underlever which looks like a very early (1905) BSA/Lincoln Jeffries). Has number 1838 stamped near the trigger block, has bayonet underlever, the trigger guard extends down the stock, stock is walnut/pistol grip.
Has deep etching on cylinder BSA..Lincoln Jeffries etc. Has BSA piled Arms logo rear of rear sight and same logo stamped/etched on the stock. Has a metal butt plate. No blueing left, has been burnished down to bright metal but etching fine. Seems all original with turnwheel on rear sight. I have not chrono'd yet but spring seems lively.
Also has what looks like a patent number stamped just under the rear sight assembly.

Could any of the enthusiasts on this site confirm what I think and then suggest a market value please?

Mike95

[taff draper]

Any pics please

[Mike95]

I spent last night making comparisons with Hiller's book and the Guns Review articles of 1978. Def a 1905/1906 "BSA Air Rifle", very early model with the "BSA Air Rifle___Lincoln Jeffries Patent" stamped on the cylinder. Chrono'd at 665 fps with 7g Hobby, so around 6.8ft/lbs.

has the stock length 13 3/4 stamped under the butt. Has the name "J CHANCE" stamped under the pistol grip..assume either the seller or the owner.

Seems all original, pity the metal work has been polished to bright metal!

I would assume value around £120 but I don't think the owner wants to sell.
I will post some pics just for reference.

Mike95

[Lakey]

The BSA you mention is indeed an early one, from around 1905. It is one of the second batch of guns made by BSA, to the Lincoln Jeffries pattern.

These guns were the very first English mass produced airguns, designed and made at a time when 90% of other guns were individually produced and hand fitted by small manufacturers.

During that early period of manufacture BSA were also producing guns for Lincoln Jeffries himself, however L.J lacked the advertising clout and dealer network that BSA had, so sales of his gun (The 'H' The Lincoln model) steadily fell until, BSA took over all his patents and then became sole sellers/producers of these underlevers.

The value you suggest is about right, however these very early BSA's can go for as much as 150-200 to specialist collectors who need an early example for their collection.

ATB

Lakey

[Mike95]

Thanks for the further information, I will pass it on. I think the owner is going to put it on his wall! I have told him to get an oily rag over the metalwork.

Mike95