Webley & Scott "Senior" Air Pistol.

Happy Firearm Fridays.

This week for Firearm Friday we are recognising the passing of 100 years since the production of one of our air pistols. The Webley & Scott “Senior” which is always a talking point in our pistol display.

The Webley & Scott Senior air pistol is one of the most iconic examples of British airgun design, blending elegance, durability, and precision in a package that has captivated collectors and shooters for nearly a century. First introduced in the mid-1920s, the Senior was initially offered in a straight-grip version produced until around 1930. This early model featured a bolt-action, break-barrel cocking system and a clean, no-nonsense profile that has since become a hallmark of classic Webley craftsmanship.

 In the mid-1930s, the slant-grip version was introduced, offering a more ergonomic hold and, in many cases, upgraded finishes. Both versions saw widespread use, but the slant-grip model would become the more common and recognisable form in later years.
Production of the Senior was paused during the Second World War, with manufacturing resources diverted to military contracts.

After the war, Webley resumed making the Senior alongside the Mk I and Junior pistols, continuing into the 1960s with only minor updates. These post-war examples often featured knurled barrels for improved handling and Webley-branded moulded grips, but the underlying mechanics remained largely unchanged. 

The cocking system relied on tipping the barrel forward a full 180 degrees, a design that allowed for smooth operation and ensured sufficient piston travel for balanced power.
Performance from the Senior was respectable for its time and remains enjoyable today. In .22 calibre, it typically delivers velocities around 300 feet per second, with well-tuned examples capable of reaching close to 357 fps. Offered in both .177 and .22, the pistol was versatile enough for target shooting, informal plinking, and small pest control. The build quality was—and still is—one of its strongest assets, with a predominantly all-metal construction that feels reassuringly solid in the hand.

For collectors, the Senior holds considerable appeal. Early straight-grip examples from the pre-war years are particularly prized, especially those in original condition with their factory boxes or leatherette cases. These pistols, often produced in relatively small numbers, are sought after not only for their performance but for their place in airgun history. The slant-grip models, while more common, are no less desirable for those seeking a reliable and handsome piece of Webley heritage.

Even decades after the last Senior rolled off the production line, its reputation endures. It remains a fine shooter, a display-worthy collectible, and a tangible link to a golden era of British gun-making. Whether appreciated for its clean lines, mechanical reliability, or historical significance, the Webley & Scott Senior stands as a testament to the company’s dedication to quality and craftsmanship.

On your next visit to our Museum feel free to ask your tour guide to point this out, it's an intricate beautiful design that you don't often see in air pistols.