A .451 CALIBRE PERCUSSION TARGET RIFLE BY F.T. BAKER, 88 FLEET STREET, LONDON, DATED 1863
with smooth-bored barrel fitted with bead fore-sight, inscribed 'Boucher's patent' on the median, signed over the breech, stamped 'patent 872' and retained by two iron bands (back-sight and tang-sight missing), signed dated flush-fitting lock (nipple sheared), highly figured walnut full stock, chequered fore-end and grip, iron mounts comprising trigger-guard and butt-plate, two iron eyes for sling swivels, horn fore-end cap and iron ramrod
83.5 cm; 32 7/8 in barrel
Frederick Thomas Baker, successor to T.K. Baker is recorded at 88 Fleet Street 1858-1900. His trade label claimed to be the patentee of the improved safety bolt, he was also granted patents for a breech action, a cartridge case and a cartridge loader. See Blackmore 1999, p. 45. On 29 March 1862 J. Boucher patented his rifling of '.....shallow grooves, having all edges rounded off, and of gradually increasing depth towards the muzzle to prevent windage. In a modification the lands are half the breadth of the grooves.....'. Boucher submitted this design, with modifications, to the Small Arms Committee on more than one occasion. It appears that he attempted too much at once and very little came of his efforts. See Roads 1964, p. 123.