William Evans 12 Gauge 30″ SXS Double Barrel Shotgun MFD 1896-1904 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,802.00
LSB#: WY250328JS011
Make: William Evans
Model: Side by Side (SxS) Double Barrel Shotgun
Serial Number: 5434
Year of Manufacture: Circa 1896–1904 (C&R Eligible)
Caliber: 12 Gauge
Action Type: Break Action, Side by Side, Dual Trigger, Hammerless
Markings: The rib is marked “WILLIAM EVANS 63 PALL MALL ST. JAMES’S LONDON.” The bottom of the barrels are marked “5434” The barrel flats are marked with London Proof House proof marks. The inside of the forend is marked “5434” The water table is marked “5434” Both sides of the receiver is marked “WILLIAM EVENS LONDON” The bottom tang is marked “5434” The bottom of the rib is marked “63486 / CLASSIC ARMS CORDOVA TN”
Barrel Length: 30”
Choke: Fixed, Full / Cylinder.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a metallic bead fixed to the concave rib.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is in a 2 piece wood configuration featuring a fluted straight comb, heel and toe cap, checkered straight wrist and checkered forend. The LOP is 14.75’ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttstock. There are light handling marks present. There are no chips or cracks. The stock rates in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blued / Nickel
Finish Originality: Refinished.
Bore Condition: The bores are bright. There is no erosion present in the bores. In this writers opinion the bores rate 10/10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 95% of its metal finish. The balance shows light operation and handling wear. The screw heads are sharp. The pins are clean. Some of the markings have thinned from the refinishing process, but are still legible. Overall, this shotgun rates in about Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this shotgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: 2 Snap Caps.
Our Assessment: William Evans began his career at the prestigious James Purdey & Sons before opening his own firm in 1883. His shotguns have been a favorite among the British sporting elite, known for their balance, craftsmanship, and refined London styling. This example, with its address on Pall Mall in St. James’s London, dates from the heart of Evans’ early independent production years—1896 to 1904—and represents the Edwardian period’s best sporting traditions.
With elegant case coloring on the action, fine checkering, and British proof marks throughout, this gun offers a striking blend of function and form. The 30” barrels are choked ideally for upland or sporting clays use, and the light frame and crisp lock-up indicate it has been cared for over its long life.
Collectors of fine English shotguns and shooters alike will appreciate this early William Evans. It’s suitable for the field, a collection, or even as an elegant wall hanger in a traditional den. Please see our high quality photos and good luck on your bid! -M.C.
