Make: P. Webley & Son
Model: Hammered Back-Action Sidelock
Serial Number: 10750 (matching numbered parts)
Year of Manufacture: 1870s-1893 / ATF Classification: Antique
Caliber/Gauge: 12 Gauge, black powder only
Action Type: Back- Action Sidelock, top break, side by side, non-selective double triggers, dual hammers, and extractor
Choke: Left: Modified, Right: Improved Cylinder, Both Fixed
Barrel Length: 28"
Sights/Optics: There is a brass bead at the muzzle.
Weight: 7 lb., 1.7 oz.
Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The refinished furniture is checkered wood with a straight wrist grip, straight comb, and a bare checkered butt with engraved metal plates to protect the edges. The furniture shows scattered pressure dings, drag lines, and scratches. The checkering is worn smooth from handling and being refinished. The forend is chipped at the nose. There is a faint crack on the left side of the butt and a couple very faint ones starting at the rear of the receiver. The LOP measures 14.125" and 13.125" from the fronts of the triggers to the back of the butt. The drop at comb is about 1.5" and the drop at the heel is about 3". The butt has pressure dings in the wood, and a filled void in the upper plate. Overall, the furniture rates in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blued & case colored
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bores are bright with stubborn streaking. There are some minor infrequent pits in the bores. In this writer’s opinion, the bores rate 8 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 30% of its metal finish. The barrel set shows fairly strong damascus patterning that thins near the receiver and has scattered oxidation spots. The receiver case color has completely faded, and is now in the white. The action shows standard operational wear. The screw heads range from unmarred to lightly tooled and retain turnable slots. The markings and engravings are clear and complete. Overall, this shotgun is in Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The barrels lock to the receiver with no play. We did not fire this firearm. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: This P. Webley & Son Hammered Back-Action Sidelock was manufactured between the 1870s and 1893 and qualifies as an Antique firearm. Produced by P. Webley & Son prior to the formation of Webley & Scott, this shotgun represents the high standard of Victorian British gunmaking. During the late 19th century, P. Webley & Son earned an outstanding reputation for producing finely crafted sporting arms for sportsmen throughout the British Empire. Hammered sidelock doubles from this period are admired for their elegant lines, meticulous hand fitting, and enduring mechanical quality.
Chambered for 12 Gauge with 28 inch barrels, this back-action sidelock double combines the traditional exposed hammer design with refined lockwork that was highly regarded during its era. Such shotguns were widely used for upland game, driven shoots, and general sporting pursuits, reflecting the pinnacle of black powder-era sporting gun design. In this writer's opinion, the bores rate 8 out of 10, indicating good internal condition with moderate, honest use. The action functions correctly.
The furniture rates in Very Good condition with attractive handling wear consistent with its age. The wood was sanded and refinished some time ago. This shotgun retains approximately 30% of its original metal finish, with a balance that complements its antique character. Overall, this shotgun rates in Very Good condition as an antique and represents a handsome example of a P. Webley & Son hammered back-action sidelock, offering excellent appeal to collectors of fine Victorian British sporting arms. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids!
