The Webley-Fosbery emerged in the early 1900s alongside the early semi-automatic pistols and combined the relative mechanical simplicity of the revolver with the faster firing and smooth trigger pulls of the semi-automatic pistols. The upper portion of the revolver is pushed back under recoil like the slide of a semi-automatic pistol, and the distinctive zig-zag grooves in the cylinder in conjunction rotate the cylinder. The hammer is cocked in the process as well, and cocking the hammer manually does not revolver the cylinder. This allows the pistol to be fired faster and more accurately than a double action revolver. Not surprisingly, target shooters were among the designs fans, including Walter Winans, but the design proved to be more finicky in combat situations where it might get dirty. Only around 4,750 were manufactured in 1900-1924. This one has "WILKINSON GUNMAKERS PALL MALL LONDON. S.W." on the rib indicating it was manufactured for the Wilkinson Sword Company who also retailed a variety of other Webley revolver designs. It has a blade front sight on a raised integral base, notch rear sight on the latch, "WEBLEY FOSBERY" on the left side of the top strap, "864" on the front of the barrel lug and rear of the cylinder, "4165" on the trigger guard (presumably Wilkinson's number), the bullet trademark and "455 CORDITE" on the left side of the frame, "3864" on the right side of the frame, Birmingham proofs, and checkered walnut grips. It comes in a modern custom case with a reproduction 19th century James Wilkinson & Son trade label inside the lid, empty catridge block, an oiler, and a cleaning rod.

Fine with 40% of the fading original blue finish, some gray specks, mild edge wear, light scratches and marks, and distinct markings. The undersize replacement grips are very good and have mild wear on the otherwise crisp checkering, some dents, and a crack through the length of the right grip. Mechanically excellent.