Make: W.W. Greener

Model: Dual Trigger Hammerless Sidelock Shotgun

Serial Number: 38035

Year of Manufacture: Ca. 1895 / Antique

Gauge: 12 Gauge, 2 ¾” Shells

Action Type: Side by Side, Dual Trigger, Hammerless Sidelock Shotgun with Ejectors

Barrel Length: 27 ½" Sleeved Barrels, Original Rib.

Choke: The right barrel measures 0.005". The left barrel measures 0.015".

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a brass bead fixed to the rib at the muzzle.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two piece checkered wood with straight grip, straight comb, serrated composite buttpate with spacer, silver initial-plate in the belly marked with a superposed "TJO", and a splinter forend with horn triangular tip. There are scattered scuffs, scratches, nicks, and compressions. There are no chips or cracks. The buttplate has been replaced. The checkering holds some definition but areas have been smoothed and compressed. Drop at comb is 1 ½”, drop at heel is 2”, the stock has a right hand cast. The LOP measures 14” from the front of the rear trigger and 15” from the front of the forward trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stocks rate in about Very Good Plus to Fine overall condition.

Weight: 6lbs 1.5oz

Type of Finish: Blue, Case Color

Finish Originality: Refinished barrels. The rest of the finish appears original.

Bore Condition: The bores are bright. There is no erosion. There are minor fouling streaks. In this writer's opinion the bores each rate 9/10.

Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 50% of its current metal finish. The balance of the finish on the barrels is relatively strong. Most of the case color has turned to a silver. There is faint case color reserved in the protected areas. The markings on the rib nearly filled in entirely and are no longer legible. There is some pitting concentrated on the right side of the receiver. There is some minor intermittent oxidation and spots of pitting. The screw heads are sharp to tool marked with strong slots. Overall, this shotgun rates in about Good condition as partially refinished.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The triggers have strong springs and a crisp release. The ejectors function well and there is no play in the construction of the shotgun. We have not fired this shotgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None

Our Assessment: W. Greener began producing firearms in 1829, marking the start of what would become one of Britain’s most respected gunmaking firms. He was the first to eliminate traditional vent holes in breech design, a significant advancement in both safety and performance. Greener also strengthened barrel construction by incorporating a greater proportion of steel, improving durability and consistency. His refinements to the harpoon gun led to a model adopted by the Scottish Fisheries, where it remained in service for years. Perhaps his most enduring contribution was the development of the expanding rifle bullet, a major milestone in projectile design.

Although the expanding bullet stands as his most celebrated innovation, this 1895 side by side shotgun reflects how successfully the company continued under his legacy after his death in 1869. The gun presents with tasteful, honest handling wear across its metal surfaces, consistent with careful use over time. With its solid build quality and crisp action, this example represents the enduring craftsmanship of the Greener name and would make a distinguished addition to any well curated collection.