I have poor condition Birmingham proofed W Richards, which I do not believe to be one of the William Richards guns. Its configuration is virtually identical to this one, ie lever on the left. I believe this left lever was fairly common on very early guns. Although it is not in usable condition just from handling I believe the left lever position would actually be more convienent than a right position. I keep this gun solely because of its sentimental value to me, was my Grandfather's. Unfortunately between when he had it & my acquiring it, it rceived absolutely no care & shows it.
Judging from the space between the flats & the beginning of the proof marks it would appear to me they are beyond the chamber area where the max pressure occurs. I would certainly see this as no problem on this gun.
I might question it having been "Custom Made", unless he is saying made in a "Customary Manner".
