Original Fraser Telescopic Sight

Original Fraser Telescopic Sight

Original Fraser Telescopic Sight.19th-century telescopic sights by Daniel Fraser (of D. & J. Fraser and Daniel Fraser & Co. in Edinburgh, Scotland) represent some of the earliest and most specialized British optical attachments for sporting and match rifles. The Holland & Holland rifle serial number marked on this scope (13862) indicates that it was fitted to a rifle manufactured between 1888 and 1893.

This was manufactured between the 1870s and 1890s at Fraser’s workshop at 4 Leith Street Terrace, Edinburgh. In the late 19th century, Daniel Fraser—a premier gunmaker based at 4 Leith Street Terrace, Edinburgh—became one of the earliest and most progressive advocates of the telescopic rifle sight.

Rather than relying entirely on third-party optics, Fraser adapted and significantly improved an earlier design pioneered by Lieutenant Colonel David Davidson. He built high-quality, advanced scopes and highly precise, proprietary mounting systems that set his rifles apart.

These setups were used primarily on his high-end Scottish hill-stalking rifles and match rifles. Additionally, the British military utilized Fraser-made Davidson telescopes by mounting them to standard-issue Martini-Henry Mk.II rifles, making them some of the earliest military-adopted sniper platforms in the UK. Surviving original Fraser scopes are exceptionally rare and highly sought after by collectors.

A very rare and sought after scope in excellent condition with good optics. An ideal scope to side mount on a Whitworth rifle.