Searcy Field Grade Double Rifle
B. Searcy & Co. · Rifle · In Production · 1993
Also known as: B. Searcy Field Grade, Searcy Field Grade Boxlock
Overview
The Searcy Field Grade Double Rifle is a break-action side-by-side double rifle built by B. Searcy & Co. of Boron, California, positioned as the maker's entry-level model. It uses an Anson & Deeley boxlock action with double Purdey bolting and a top extension, automatic ejectors, double triggers, and a non-automatic safety, chambered for classic British dangerous-game Nitro Express cartridges including the .450/400 Nitro Express 3". Standard barrels are 24 inches with a quarter rib carrying express sights, stocked in English walnut, and offered in coin or color case-hardened finish.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 4536 g (160.0 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1041 mm (40.98") |
| Barrel Length | 610 mm (24.02") |
| Action Type | Break Action |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Double Trigger |
| Magazine Capacity | 2 rounds |
| Muzzle Velocity | 610 m/s (2001 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 4825 J (3559 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 100 m (109 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Walnut |
| Finish | Color Case Hardened |
Calibers
- .450/400 Nitro Express 3" · primary — also known as .450/400 NE, .400 Jeffery Nitro Express, .450-400-3"
Features
- Firing modes: Manual
- Feed systems: Break Open Double Barrel
- Safety mechanisms: Non Automatic Safety
- Features: Anson Deeley Boxlock, Double Purdey Bolting, Automatic Ejectors, Double Triggers, Quarter Rib Express Sights, Regulated Barrels
Production
Production years: 1993-present
Built to order in small numbers; each rifle is hand-fitted and barrel-regulated
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Designer: Bill "Butch" Searcy
Notes
Butch Searcy founded the company after overhearing British sportsmen doubt that Americans could build a proper double rifle; barrels are regulated to print both shots to a common point of aim. Also offered in .450 Nitro Express 3¼", .470 Nitro Express, and .500 Nitro Express.
Background
B. Searcy & Co. earned a reputation as the leading American maker of British-pattern double rifles, reviving big-bore Nitro Express chamberings for African dangerous-game hunting from a workshop set in the California high desert.