Webley revolver

Few firearms have earned as much respect and historical reverence as the Webley revolver. As the standard-issue sidearm of British forces from the late 19th century through World War II, the Webley has become an enduring symbol of British military power and firearm innovation. Today, collectors, historians, and shooting enthusiasts alike admire this rugged, powerful handgun for its battlefield legacy and distinctive design.

Whether you’re searching for a collectible sidearm or want to understand what made this revolver so iconic, this revolver holds a special place in the world of classic firearms.

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A Brief History of this Revolver

The Webley revolver was developed by Webley & Scott, a British firearms manufacturer, and became the official sidearm for the British Army starting in the 1880s. The revolver underwent several iterations, each improving on the last. Among the most famous were the .455 Webley revolver models, known for their stopping power and battlefield reliability.

The revolvers featured a top-break design, allowing for quick reloading via an automatic ejector system that expelled all spent cartridges at once. This design was especially effective in trench warfare, where speed and simplicity were essential.

The Power of the .455 Webley Revolver

The .455 revolver cartridge was specifically designed for military use and was known for its significant stopping power at close range. Unlike modern high-velocity rounds, the .455 cartridge relied on heavy, slow-moving bullets that delivered maximum impact with minimal recoil. This made it ideal for use in the chaotic close-quarters combat of World War I and II.

Despite being replaced in the mid-20th century, the .455 Webley revolver remains a favorite among collectors for its historical value and shoot ability.

The Webley Mk VI Revolver: Icon of World War I

Among all Webley models, the Mk VI revolver stands out as the most iconic and widely recognized. Introduced in 1915, it became the primary sidearm for British and Commonwealth troops throughout World War I and into World War II.

Features of the Mk VI revolver:

• Chambered in .455 Webley
• 6-inch barrel with tall sights for improved accuracy
• Top-break frame with automatic ejector
• Robust military-grade steel construction
• Widely issued to officers and non-commissioned officers alike

The Mk VI is still widely sought after today for reenactments, military collections, and historical displays. Many examples are still in working condition over a century later—a true testament to its craftsmanship.

The Rare and Fascinating Webley Fosbery Revolver

For those looking for a truly unique firearm, the Webley Fosbery is a marvel of mechanical ingenuity. Unlike traditional revolvers, the Fosbery is a semi-automatic revolver—a hybrid that uses recoil energy to rotate the cylinder and cock the hammer.

Key traits of the Webley Fosbery revolver:

• Introduced in the early 1900s
• Available in both .455 Webley and .38 ACP
• Featured in movies and literature due to its futuristic appearance
• Rare and highly collectible among serious enthusiasts

The Webley Fosbery Revolver is a prized piece for collectors looking for a standout revolver with both functional and historical intrigue.

Why Collect a Webley?

Here’s why this revolver continues to attract collectors, shooters, and history buffs around the world:

• Deep military and colonial history
• Exceptional mechanical design and durability
• Unique top-break functionality and rapid reloading
• Wide variety of models and calibers to collect
• Strong secondary market value for original and rare models

Whether you’re drawn to the power of the .455 Webley revolver, the military legacy of the Webley Mk VI, or the advanced mechanics of the Webley Fosbery revolver, the Webley name remains one of the most respected in revolver history.

This revolver is more than just a firearm—it’s a piece of world history. From the trenches of World War I to the silver screen, it has captured the imagination of soldiers, historians, and gun collectors for over a century. Whether you’re starting a collection or adding to an existing arsenal, a Webley offers authenticity, functionality, and a direct connection to one of the most transformative periods in global military history.