J&L Wilkins - Best Sidelock Double Rifle 700 Nitro Express:

A Masterpiece of Big Game Hunting

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J&L Wilkins - Best Sidelock Double Rifle 700 Nitro Express: A Masterpiece of Big Game Hunting

The J&L Wilkins Best Sidelock Double Rifle in .700 Nitro Express represents the pinnacle of power, craftsmanship, and precision. With a cartridge designed to take down the largest and most dangerous game on Earth, this rifle is both a work of art and a formidable hunting tool. The .700 Nitro Express is synonymous with stopping power, making it a revered choice for big game hunters worldwide. Combining fine materials with exceptional craftsmanship, the J&L Wilkins rifle is a testament to the gunmaker’s dedication to excellence and the tradition of big game rifles.

This J&L Wilkins double rifle features 25 1/2" barrels with a 1/4 rib, along with one standing and two folding sights, giving the hunter flexibility at various ranges. The double triggers, a hallmark of traditional big game rifles, offer quick follow-up shots, crucial when hunting dangerous game. The ejectors ensure smooth reloading, while the splinter forearm and pistol grip give the shooter maximum control and comfort, even when managing the substantial recoil of the .700 Nitro Express.

With a weight of 16 lbs 8 oz, the rifle is designed to handle the intense recoil of the .700 Nitro Express cartridge, known for its significant power. The length of pull of 15 1/4" ensures a custom fit, providing comfort and ease of use during extended hunts. The rifle is adorned with an engraved case-colored trap door grip cap, a testament to the artistry of the gunmaker, and comes presented in the maker’s case, reflecting the high level of attention to detail and craftsmanship. Although the rifle is test fired only, it is an impeccable example of what a modern, high-end big game rifle can offer.

The evolution of big game rifles traces back to the 19th century, when early explorers and hunters ventured into Africa and India in search of large and dangerous game such as elephants, lions, and Cape buffalo. These expeditions required rifles with exceptional stopping power, and early hunters relied on black powder rifles like the .500 Black Powder Express. However, these rifles were heavy, cumbersome, and often slow to reload, which could be a disadvantage in high-risk hunting scenarios.

With the introduction of smokeless powder in the late 19th century, rifle performance dramatically improved. Smokeless powder allowed for higher velocities, more energy, and better ballistic performance, leading to the creation of legendary cartridges like the .375 H&H Magnum (1912), .416 Rigby (1911), and .470 Nitro Express. These cartridges became essential for professional hunters facing dangerous game, as they offered both the power and reliability needed for close-quarters encounters.