Peter Small, London Exposed Hammer 12 Ga 30″ Twist Damascus SxS Shotgun C&R

SOLD FOR: $1280

LSB#: 220117HD001

Make: Peter Small, Pilgram Street Newcastle on Tyne, London

Model: SxS Exposed Hammer Shotgun

Serial Number: 57299

Year of Manufacture: Pre 1913, C&R

Gauge: 12, chambered for 2 1/2” shells Black Powder

Action Type: Top-Break Double Rebounding Hammer Shotgun with Extractor

Markings: The rib of the barrel is marked “PETER SMALL PILGRAM STREET NEWCASTLE ON TYNE”. The sides of the locks are marked “PETER SMALL”. The underside of the barrels are marked with numerous proofs, please see the pictures. The watertable is marked with the serial number on both sides and London Proofs. The lower tang is marked with the serial number “57299”.

Barrel Length: 30”

Choke: Improved Modified / Cylinder, Fixed

Weight: 6lb. 9.8oz.

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

Stock Configuration and Condition: The stocks are two-piece checkered wood with splinter forend, straight grip, straight comb, and hard rubber  buttplate. The buttstock has light nicks, dings, and compressions throughout. The most notable is to the right side of the stock and another small ding in teh belly. No notable chips of cracks. Some indication of aggressive cleaning scratches to the wood, no sanding. The checking is sharp throughout. The drop at comb is 1 3/8”, and the drop at heel is 2”. The LOP measures 14 1/8” from the front the front face of the forward trigger and 13 1/4” from the rear trigger to the back of the plate. The plate has some discoloration to the edges, no missing chips, typical scratching. Overall, the stocks rate in Very Good – Fine condition given the age.

Type of Finish: Browned Barrel, Blue small parts, Case Hardened Receiver.

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: Both bores are bright with no erosion (likely honed). There are a few very small spots of old pitting in the bore near the muzzle.

Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 80% of its metal finish. Much of the barrel retains a brown color with distinct twist damascus. There are a few very small spots of case color remaining on the water table in protected areas. The receiver has lost all finish to the exposed sides and now in the white with clear engraving throughout. The small parts like the thumb latch and trigger guard are losing some of the bluing or transitioning to a plum hue from age. The screw heads are sharp and the markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun rates in Very Good – Fine condition considering the age.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The lock up is tight with no play. We have not fired this shotgun. As with all used firearms, thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: None

Our Assessment: When it comes to quality European doubles there are few names that pop up immediately such as James Purdey & Sons, Holland & Holland, Boss & Co. , John Dickson & Son, John Rigby & Co., W.W. Greener and John Manton… just to name a few. Once you get a handle on this double you know it has a place among the best. There is quality in the craftsmanship throughout this shotgun. You would never guess this shotgun is over 100 years old at first glance. The twist damascus is still beautiful and the engraving is tasteful and still sharp in most places. Unless you have a better 100 year old english double in the safe there is really no excuse not to bid on this one. A perfect addition to any collection for display or even potential shooter (after being inspected by a gunsmith of course).