After a break in production of over 100 years, John Rigby & Co. has recommenced production of their iconic Rising Bite shotgun. Just like its rifle counterpart, the shotgun is characterised by the unique Rigby patent Rising Bite action, well regarded for its strength.
Built in London by Rigby’s skilled team of gunmakers under the direction of the firm’s Rising Bite executive, the shotgun honours Rigby’s proven designs of the past and offers a distinctive alternative for the discerning game shot.
The Rising Bite shotgun is characterised by the unique Rigby patent Rising Bite action, well-regarded for its unique strength and distinctive style. The patent dates back to 1879 and was the brainchild of Thomas Bissell, a gunmaker who collaborated with John Rigby on several projects and made guns for him in the mid-to-late 1800s. The vertical bolt secures the barrels tight to the action face and provides a third bite in addition to the traditional double bolt.
Available in 12, 20, 28, 32-bore and .410, each Best sidelock ejector features Rigby’s signature dipped edge lock plates, chopper lump barrels in a choice of barrel length, a traditional English straight-hand grip with hand-chequered butt, inlaid with a silver oval. Traditional “Rigby Scroll” pattern engraving with carved folding leaves on fences, plus every order includes a custom fitting service. Engraving and wood upgrades are available on request.
Calibre - 12 Gauge
Each model includes:
- Best sidelock ejector with signature Rigby dipped edge lock plates
- Choice of barrel lengths
- Chopper lump barrels
- Rigby top extension with vertical bolt
- Automatic or manual safety
- Traditional lever forend release catch
- ‘London Best’ barrel black and finishing
- 2¾" chambers
- Fixed chokes – constriction of client’s choice
- Concave game rib
- Double triggers
- Grade 7 walnut stock
- Traditional English straight hand grip with chequered butt
- Silver oval in stock
- Custom stock fitting
- Traditional Rigby pattern full scroll engraving with carved folding leaves on fences
- Gold inlaid ‘J. Rigby & Co’ on sidelocks and barrels
- Colour case hardened or bright finish on action, forend iron and furniture.
