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16585 - Israeli Marked Webley Mk IV In 38
5/1/2025
Dave Windsor Canada

Maker: Webley Scott, Model: MK IV, Caliber: .38 Sw, Barrel Length: 4, Finish: Handgun - Blue, SN: A72752

Markings:
Star of David with something like a U inside it.

Question:
I recd this firearm for doing a favor. I know nothing about it. When it was made who it was sold to Israel. What is the background on this run based on the serial . Basically anything and everything about my new toy.

Answer:
Dave- The British Army clung onto revolvers longer than any other major army, not adopting an automatic pistol, until the late 1940`s. They used the break top Webley pistol in 455 caliber through the World War I. After that war they decided to move to 38 caliber, and adopted the Smith Wesson 38 cartridge, firing a 200 grain slug.

After WWII The state of Israel purchased Webley Mark IV pistols for use by government agencies. Some of these revolvers were issued to the Israeli police after Israel`s independence in 1948. Israel pistols often feature unique markings, such as the Star of David and Hebrew characters. Marc

16786 - Muzzleloader Purportedly Brought To Canada From The USA In 1850
5/1/2025
Ken Indian Head Saskatchewan Canada

Maker: Unknown Letts, Model: Unknown Flintlock, Caliber: 771 Or 774, Barrel Length: ?, Finish: Long Gun - Stainless Steel, SN: NONE VISIBLE

Markings:
Letts Bess 771 or 774

Question:
I am trying to determine exactly what I have. Im director of our local museum researching this item. We were told it was brought to Canada from the USA in 1850. I have lots of pictures.

Answer:
Ken- By separate correspondence and review of numerous photos, we determined that this gun is not an antique made prior to 1850, but a 20th century amateur creation of no particular value or interest. It is good to remember that owner`s (or donor`s) stories may be sincere and based on old family oral history lore. But, they can also be totally erroneous and filled with contradictory bits of information and facts conflated from different events. The bearers of such tales may or may not welcome corrections.

John Spangler

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