Completed in 1865, this 12-gauge hammer gun exemplifies the pinnacle of nineteenth-century London craftsmanship from premier maker James Purdey. Conceived as a refined, versatile game gun, the model highlights the historic transition toward modern breech-loading architecture during Britain's golden age of gunmaking.

Presented in fine antique condition, this unit features 30-inch Damascus barrels complemented by a straight English walnut stock and James Purdey’s first-patent push-forward thumb lever operating the iconic double-bite bolt locking system. Positioned neatly ahead of the trigger guard, this distinctive mechanism is fully displayed with this exact firearm during a live feature by David on The Shooting Channel.

The action locks up tight on the face, functioning smoothly alongside traditional extractors and responsive double triggers. Measuring to a 14 ¾-inch length of pull with cast for the right-hand shooter, it is equipped with 2 ½-inch chambers, fixed cylinder chokes, and a classic solid rib.

• Model: Hammer Gun
• Type: SXS Damascus
• Caliber / Bore / Gauge: 12 Ga
• Barrel Length: 30"
• Overall Length: 45 5/8"
• Action: Side by Side
• Safety: Manual
• Ejectors: Extractors
• Chambers: 2.5
• Chokes: CYL & CYL
• Rib: 9 - 7 Solid rib
• Stock Material: English Walnut
• Barrel Type: SXS Damascus
• Length of Pull (LOP): 14 3/4"
• Length of Pull to Wood (LOP to Wood): 13 1/2"
• Cast: Right
• Drop at Comb (DAC): 1 1/2"
• Drop at Heel (DAH): 2 1/2"
• Stock: Straight English
• Palm Swell: No
• Seller Inventory #: N-8615
• Price: $9999
• License Needed: Pre-1899
• Country of Make: United Kingdom
• Year of Make: 1865
• Weight: 6 lbs 7.8 oz