Make: Williams & Powell

Model: Double Gun

Serial Number: 10446

Year of Manufacture: 1875-1892

Gauge: 12 Gauge. 2 ¾” Shells

Action Type: Break-Open Side by Side Shotgun with Extractors, Double Triggers.

Markings: Both sides of the receiver is marked “WILLIAMS & POWELL”. The top of the barrel rib is marked “NEW BARRELS BY JOSEPH BOURDE & SON. BIRMINGHAM”. The top tang is marked “SAFE”. The bottom of the barrel rib is marked “NAVY ARMS MARTINSBURG, WV 12GA”. The bottom of the right barrel is marked “54483”. The bottom of both barrels are marked “MADE IN ENGLAND” with Birmingham proofs. The water table is marked “10446”, “2410”, with multiple proofs. The bottom tang is marked “10446”. The inside of the forend on each side of the iron are marked “10446”. The inside of the forend iron is marked “PATENT / EJECTOR”.

Barrel Length: 28”

Choke: Full & Full. Fixed.

Sights / Optics: There is a metallic bead at the front of the rib.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two piece checkered walnut with a straight grip, straight comb, vented rubber buttpad, and splinter forend. The checkering is defined in most places with areas shallow to worn smooth on the forend. There are scattered nicks and compressions. There is a small crack at the bottom of the forend at the front and rear. The LOP measures 13 1/4” and 14 1/4” from the front triggers to the back of the buttpad respectively. The buttpad has been replaced. Overall, the stocks are in Good condition as Antique.

Type of Finish: Blued, Case Color.

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bores are bright There are a few small dings and scattered light erosion throughout. In this writer’s opinion the bores rates 6/10.

Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 50% of its metal finish. The barrel retains much of its blue while there are still some trace amounts of case color found in the protected areas such as the inside of the forend and water table. Most of the case has gone completely mute. The engraving is very clean, crisp, and attractive. There is some erosion in the bottom of the receiver and tang that has mottled some of the engraving. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun rates in Good Condition condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The barrels lock up to the frame with no play. We have not fired this shotgun. As with all used firearms, cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None

Our Assessment: The Williams & Powell 12 Gauge Boxlock Side-by-Side shotgun is an elegant and traditional British-made sporting firearm, reflecting classic craftsmanship and functional simplicity. Often characterized by its fine blued barrels, tasteful engraving, and richly figured walnut stocks with checkered grips, this shotgun exemplifies the high-quality build and attention to detail typical of British sporting arms. The side-by-side configuration and boxlock action provide both reliability and ease of use, appealing to upland bird hunters and clay shooters who prefer classic styling coupled with quick handling. Williams & Powell shotguns hold a reputable position among sporting enthusiasts due to their solid build, graceful handling, and attractive aesthetics. Their robust construction and reliable mechanism make them dependable field guns, suited for generations of sporting use. Today, Williams & Powell side-by-sides remain desirable among collectors and sportsmen who appreciate their refined design, historical significance, and continued utility in the field.