Manton & Co 20 Gauge 28″ Side by Side Double Barrel Shotgun 1920s C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,150.00
LSB#: WY250313JR010
Make: Manton & Co
Model: Hammerless Boxlock
Serial Number: 77305
Year of Manufacture: 1920s (C&R Eligible)
Caliber: 20 Gauge
Action Type: Break Action, Side by Side, Double Barrel, Hammerless
Markings: The top of the rib is marked “MANTON & CO LONDON & CALCUTTA” The barrel flat is marked with British proof marks. The water table is marked with additional proof marks. The bottom tang is marked “77305”
Barrel Length: 28”
Choke: Fixed, Modified / Cylinder.
Sights / Optics: The shotgun is fitted with a brass bead front sight fixed to the solid rib.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is in a 2 piece wood configuration featuring a fluted straight grip, wood buttplate, straight wrist and checkered forend. The LOP is 14.5” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. There are light handling marks present. There are no chips or cracks. The stock rates in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blued / Nickel
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bores are bright and smooth. There is no visible erosion. In this writer’s opinion, the bores rate 10/10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 98% of its original finish. The balance of the finish shows only light operational wear. The screw heads are sharp with serviceable slots. The pins are clean. The markings are sharp. Overall, this shotgun rates in about Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The barrels lock up tight with no play. The safety, triggers, and extractors are all functional. 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: None
Our Assessment: This Manton & Co 20 Gauge hammerless boxlock side-by-side shotgun exemplifies the craftsmanship associated with British gunmaking in the early 20th century. Manufactured in the 1920s and marked “MANTON & CO LONDON & CALCUTTA” on the rib, this double gun speaks to the colonial-era history of the firm, which operated on two continents. With 28” barrels choked Modified and Cylinder, this shotgun offers an ideal configuration for upland game, clays, or light field use. It retains its classic brass bead sight and traditional solid rib. The bright, smooth bores rate a perfect 10/10, further reinforcing its value as both a functional shooter and a collectible piece.
The shotgun remains in Excellent overall condition, retaining about 98% of its original blued and nickel finish. Its elegant two-piece wooden stock, complete with a fluted straight grip, straight wrist, and checkered forend, shows only light handling marks with no cracks or chips, rating in Excellent condition. Mechanically, the shotgun locks up tight with zero play, and all functions including the safety, extractors, and triggers operate as intended. The screw heads are sharp, the pins are clean, and the action is tight—hallmarks of quality and care. With matching proof marks on the flats and watertable, this shotgun retains its originality and historic integrity.
Whether you’re a sporting enthusiast looking for a fast-handling 20 Gauge or a collector of fine British doubles, this Manton & Co offers an ideal blend of style, function, and rarity. Its provenance, combined with its stellar condition and compact build, make it a desirable addition to any fine shotgun collection. Please see our high quality photos and good luck on your bid! -M.C.
