Whitworth ,451" English Sporting Rifle

[Nevada Mike]

I have become interested in a muzzleloading rifle for informal target shooting and occasional use in hunting. In particular, I am considering a very nice, cased Whitworth percussion 'sporting' rifle in 451 caliber.

I like these rifles as they have a reputation for accuracy, are handsome rifles, and the caliber should, I think, work well for the hunting that I do locally in Arizona.

Doe anyone have some feedback or experience with English Sporting Rifles to share?

Thanks!

 

[Grumpy gumpy]

I’ve shot one, front sight was huge and obscured the target, but was surprisingly accurate at 100 yards when I worked out where to aim, this was with standard cylinder projectiles. If you get the proper hexagonal mould for it they are even more accurate at distance, hexagonal moulds were available from an English company whose name escapes me at the moment. Google will be your friend there.
gumpy

 

[Nevada Mike]

Thanks, Grumpy.

 

[Tubby’s Canteen]

Dixie makes a reproduction of the original mold

 

[Grumpy gumpy]

Dixie makes a reproduction of the original mold

Had a look, it’s made by Pedersoli in Italy.
gumpy

 

[Nevada Mike]

So I can ge a mold for the original .451 caliber hexagonal Whitworth bullets? Excellent! Thank you.

 

[Grumpy gumpy]

Dixie also list the hexagonal wad punches, though currently out of stock
gumpy