The Real Star of This Tom Selleck Western Is His Rifle

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The Real Star of This Tom Selleck Western Is His Rifle

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  • What Is Quigley Down Under About?
  • What Type of Gun Does Quigley Use?
  • How Far Does Quigley’s Rifle Shoot?

As a seasoned Western enthusiast who’s spent countless hours poring over dusty old scripts and gritty reel-to-reels, I must say that Quigley Down Under is a rare gem that showcases not only the charisma of its leading actors but also the starring role played by our unsung hero – the Sharps rifle.

First shown in 1990, “Quigley Down Under” has experienced a resurgence, becoming available on Fubo and MGM+ in 2024. As per Just Watch, this classic action-western film has climbed an impressive 3,770 spots in popularity, suggesting a surge in viewership. What’s more, fans who’ve watched the movie are likely to be captivated not only by the story but also by the iconic firearm wielded by Tom Selleck‘s character, the sharpshooting American sniper Matthew Quigley.

35 years after its initial theater release, re-examining the impact of Quigley’s sniper rifle on his experiences in Australia following his betrayal of his employer and alliance with Aboriginal people, focusing on the specifics of the weapon such as its model, authenticity, and shooting range, which contribute to the enduring appeal of the film that keeps it compelling for modern viewers.

What Is Quigley Down Under About?

The Real Star of This Tom Selleck Western Is His Rifle

On October 19, 1990, the film “Quigley Down Under” was unveiled. This adventurous action Western was helmed by Simon Wincer from a script by John Hill. The narrative follows Matthew Quigley (Selleck), a renowned sharpshooter from Wyoming, who is enlisted by Australian ranchers to employ his sniping abilities. In Australia, Quigley encounters Elliot Marston (Alan Rickman), an Australian farmer, who reveals that he has hired Quigley to take out dangerous Aboriginal Australians.

Although he secured the job due to his proficient use of his customized rifle and marksmanship, Quigley objects to the notion of killing innocent Aboriginal people and turns down the offer. Subsequently, upon his refusal, Marston’s men forcibly subdue Quigley and a woman named Crazy Cora (Laura San Giacomo), then abandon them in the harsh Australian outback with scant resources to fend for themselves.

Upon regaining consciousness, Quigley and Cora find themselves saved by the Native Australians. Later on, they choose to align with the Aboriginal resistance and retaliate against Marston and his troops. In this critically praised Australian Western, Selleck delivers an impressive portrayal, but it’s the sniper rifle he wields that steals the show, protecting the Aboriginals throughout the story.

What Type of Gun Does Quigley Use?

The Real Star of This Tom Selleck Western Is His Rifle

At the outset of the movie, Quigley showcases his unique sniper rifle, which he uses throughout the film. This rifle is a replica of the Uberti Sharps 1874 Long Range Sniper Rifle with a 34-inch barrel and a Vernier scope. It’s essential to note that this single-shot rifle used in the movie is not a real firearm, but instead a prop created for the film. Interestingly, the production acknowledges Shiloh Rifle Mfg., based in Big Timber, Montana, as the manufacturer of the actual gun in reality.

The difference between the Uberti Sharps and the Shiloh Rifle can be found in the “tang sight adjustment windage,” via the Internet Movie Firearm Database. The Uberti rifle has the adjustment located at the base, while the Shiloh holds the adjustment on the sight slider. The Shiloh also has a “patch box”, and a curved gun butt, while the Uberti has no “patch box” and a straighter butt.

According to IMFDB:

“Matthew Quigley employs a modified Shiloh Sharps 1874 Long Range rifle, sporting a 34-inch barrel (four inches longer than the regular 30-inch one). This weapon is designed to fire .45-110 metallic cartridges with a hefty 540-grain bullet wrapped in paper. It boasts dual trigger mechanisms for enhanced accuracy, and features a Vernier peep sight that can be adjusted by a ladder system, as well as a Globe front sight.”

In the movie, the distinctions between the Uberti and Shiloh designs are subtle and hard to pick up on. However, what truly shines is the rifle’s impressive power and precision.

How Far Does Quigley’s Rifle Shoot?

The Real Star of This Tom Selleck Western Is His Rifle

When Quigley replies to the classified ad seeking an expert marksman, he concisely states his identity and ability with a four-word message: “M. Quigley, capable up to 900 yards.” This remarkable skill, showcasing the range of his modified Sharps rifle, earns him the position that leads him to Australia. The Sharps rifle takes center stage early on in the underestimated ’90s Western film, Quigley Down Under, receiving significant focus throughout the movie.

Upon reaching Australia, Quigley showcases his exceptional shooting skills as proof of his precision. He mentions that the rifle he’s using can be marked up to 1200 yards, but it has an impressive range even beyond that limit. Marston instructs a person to place a bucket target about 800 feet away, and with unerring accuracy, Quigley hits it three times consecutively in his first attempt.

The film frequently showcases close-ups of Quigley handling his rifle, from aiming and firing to reloading, these scenes are strategically placed to emphasize the gun’s power. Moreover, an image of the rifle resting on a rock amidst Quigley’s equipment serves as a testament to its prominent role that sometimes overshadows Tom Selleck’s charisma.

Towards the end of the movie, Quigley swiftly eliminates three of Marston’s henchmen with his reliable rifle. Later, he demonstrates his remarkable marksmanship by making enemies flee off a cliff when they assault Cora. After leaving Cora to care for an orphaned baby she discovers in the wilderness, Quigley strengthens his arsenal through a German arms dealer. Eventually, Marston locates him and arranges an ambush, leading to most of them being shot dead by Quigley, with only one surviving.

The Rifle Steals the Show in the Movie’s Climax

The film concludes with Marston presuming he holds the advantage in a quick-draw showdown against Quigley, armed with a pistol versus Quigley’s rifle. However, it’s Quigley who swiftly dispatches Marston and his remaining two accomplices. Over Marston’s mortally wounded form, Quigley boasts: “I may not have much use for a revolver, but I do know how to handle it.” Following the victory, Quigley is rewarded with the return of his rifle and is hailed as a hero.

In 2024, Quigley’s Sharps Rifle is still a standout reason to watch the movie, with Selleck and the late Alan Rickman delivering impressive performances. This rifle isn’t just a prop used to vanquish the wicked rancher Marston; it also gets significant screen time and character development that enhances its dramatic impact on the plot. You can stream it on Tubi.

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2024-08-15 00:01