A Rare Webley-Fosbery Revolver & the Royal Marine Who Carried It

Published on March 25, 2026
Duration: 12:30

This video provides an in-depth look at the rare Webley Fosbery, a unique semi-automatic revolver produced around 1901. The presenter details its innovative recoil-operated mechanism, the .455 Webley caliber, and its history as a private purchase for British officers. The video also highlights the specific provenance of one example, tracing its ownership to Captain Frederick Graham Crick of the Royal Marine Artillery, who tragically drowned in 1913.

Quick Summary

The Webley Fosbery is a rare 1901 semi-automatic revolver distinguished by its recoil-operated mechanism, which cycles the cylinder and cocks the hammer with each shot. Chambered in .455 Webley, it offered a softer recoil than comparable .45 ACP firearms and was a private purchase option for British officers.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Fosberry
  2. 00:36The Box and Accessories
  3. 01:41Ammunition: .455 Webley
  4. 03:07The Webley Fosbery Revolver
  5. 04:33Recoil-Operated Mechanism Explained
  6. 05:53Ejection and Reloading
  7. 06:05Unique Safety Feature
  8. 06:51Serial Number and Matching Parts
  9. 07:37Owner Provenance: Frederick Graham Crick
  10. 08:07Crick's Military Service
  11. 10:16Captain Crick's Tragic Death
  12. 10:35Memorial to Captain Crick
  13. 11:11Circumstances of Drowning
  14. 12:04Conclusion: A Unique Firearm

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Webley Fosbery revolver unique?

The Webley Fosbery is unique due to its recoil-operated semi-automatic action, where the recoil from firing cycles the cylinder and cocks the hammer. It also features a distinctive zigzag pattern on the frame that guides this mechanism.

What caliber is the Webley Fosbery typically chambered in?

The Webley Fosbery is most commonly chambered in the .455 Webley caliber, a British cartridge that, while wider than a .45 ACP, has a softer recoil due to a lower powder charge.

Was the Webley Fosbery an official military weapon?

No, the Webley Fosbery was not officially adopted by the British military. However, it was available for private purchase by officers who were attracted to its innovative automatic reloading features.

How rare is the Webley Fosbery revolver?

The Webley Fosbery is considered quite rare, with only about 5,000 units ever manufactured. Finding one with documented provenance, like that of Captain Frederick Graham Crick, makes it even more exceptional.

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