Original British 15 Bore Double Barrel Percussion Shotgun by William Ellis of London with Figured Stock – circa 1840 Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. Here we have a typical British-made Double Barreled Percussion shotgun, possibly intended for the large U.S. import market. It is marked on both lock plates with W. ELLIS, for William Ellis, a known London gunmaker who ran a shop out of 61 Saint James Street during the mid 19th Century. We have found many other examples of their percussion shotguns, both double and single barrel, in a variety of different bore sizes.

This example was definitely made as a somewhat upmarket version, featuring a lovely twist steel “Damascus” barrel, as well as wonderful factory engraving on virtually all of the fittings. It even has a fantastic highly figured walnut wood stock! The barrel strap still has a relatively clear marking on the top:

W. ELLIS LONDON

The barrel strap and both barrels have faded to a lovely gray patina, but both still show the lovely laminated spiral forging pattern on the exterior. This added strength to the steel, as well as adding a great look to the gun overall. The bottoms of each barrel bear the correct Birmingham proof marks, including the CROWN / CROSSED SCEPTERS / BPC “proof” and CROWN / CROSSED SCEPTERS / V “viewed” marks. They are also both maker marked with W‧ELLIS, and marked faintly with TWISTED. It was very common for London makers to have barrels made under contract in Birmingham, which has a very large gun industry. Many makers would open shops in both cities.

This very nice DOUBLE BARREL 15 bore Percussion Shotgun presents very nicely, with a lovely patina of age. The wrist of the stock is finely checkered for a better grip, however it is definitely quite worn due to cleaning and age. We do not see any damage or repairs, and there is just a bit of stress cracking on the butt stock due to the figured wood. The shotgun’s fittings are all of iron, with factory engraving that was once highly decorative, but now definitely worn.

Both locks work, but only the right side holds properly at half cock, while the left side does not. The cap nipple cones both look to be original, showing wear and oxidation from use. There is a ramrod under the barrel, but it is just a fabricated wood replacement. The barrel wedge pulls out relatively easily, allowing the barrel to be removed.

This is a great looking gun by a known London maker, and would look perfect mounted on the wall. Ready to display!

Specifications-

Year of Manufacture: c.1840
Caliber: 15 Bore / Gauge – about 0.680
Cartridge Type: Powder & Shot with Cap
Barrel Length: 28 Inches
Overall Length: 44 Inches
Action type: Side Action Locks
Feed System: Muzzle Loaded

NOTE: International orders of antique firearms MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services (courier). USPS Priority Mail international will not accept these. International customers should always consult their country’s antique gun laws prior to ordering.