Ross MkII Canadian Civilian Prize Rifle .303 (R31037)

Price: $4,500.00

Item Number: R31037

Houston Location.

Previously sold

This excellent civilian .303 British caliber Ross MkII rifle was presented as a shooting prize in 1914. It has an oval plaque on the bottom of the butt which reads "PRESENTED TO LIEUT. J.H. DREWRY BY CAMOSUN CHAPT. I.O.D.E FOR BEST SHOT IN VICTORIA H.S. CADET BATTALION 1914. The International Order of the Daughters of the Empire is a Canadian women's charitable organization. It provides scholarships, book prizes, and awards, and conducts other philanthropic and educational projects in communities throughout Canada. John Haworth Drewry was a cadet in the Royal Flying Corps, Toronto, in March 1917 and in the 5th Training Squadron as a Second Lieutenant in June 1917. He joined No. 4 Training Squadron in England in October 1917 and was in it and the 48th and 78th Training Squadrons through December 1917.  In January 1918, he joined the 73rd Squadron, 9th Wing in France flying Sopwith Camels. He was one of 9 Canadians out of 24 pilots in the squadron. In April 1918, he was promoted to Lieutenant and in November he transferred to the Aeroplane Experimental Station, Martlesham Heath, England. In March 1919 he was assigned to Eastchurch Training Station. He returned to Canada and was discharged in September 1919.  The rifle is excellent overall. The bore of the 30.5" barrel is excellent with bright, strong rifling. The gun has approx. 99% blue.  The bolt has most of its color case hardening. The left side of the receiver has Ross Rifle Company markings which are partially covered by the rear sight base. The elevation and windage adjustable  BSA rear peep sight is excellent. The stock is excellent with a couple of storage dents in the wrist. The action functions perfectly. This fine rifle would be the centerpiece of any target or prize rifle collection. Its ownership by a Canadian WWI aviator who served in France makes it even more desirable. Chances to own an historic rifle such as this one are few and far between. Don't delay! 
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