James Woodward & Sons 12 Bore “The Automatic” Under Snap Action Sidelock Ejector with Great Engraving – No.2 of a Pair

Description:
   ***   NEW PRICE   ***   Handsome Woodward 12 bore sidelock ejector called “The Automatic” with easy-to-use under snap action which opens the barrels and easily cocks the hammers. Has all the signature Woodward features including arcaded fences, T-shaped safety, gold lined cocking indicators, sideclips, and profuse and elaborate engraving. Woodward number 4335 was No. 2 of a pair and manufactured in 1890 - 1891. In very good mechanical condition; the action operates smoothly and easily. Presented in its oak & leather case with maker's label and some accessories. Comfortable to carry for a day afield or at the range weighing 6lb 15oz.

The 28” nitro sleeved barrels are chambered for 2-1/2” shotshells and proofed for 1-1/8oz loads. Rumors to the contrary notwithstanding, low pressure 2-1/2” shotshells are available in the US from ARMUSA, Game Bore, and RST Shells. The bores are shiny and the bluing is in good condition with some handling marks from normal usage. They are topped by a raised solid gamestyle rib which is inscribed “The Automatic” and “James Woodward & Sons 64 St. James’s Street London” and “Made of Sir Joseph Whitworth’s Fluid Pressed Steel”. The right barrel is bored 0.730 with a constriction of 0.023 for Modified choke. Minimum wall thickness is 0.033. The left barrel is also bored 0.730 and has a constricition of 0.023 for Modified choke. Minimum wall thickness is 0.030.

It appears that the gun may have been professionally restocked at some time in a well figured piece of French walnut. The stock has the “Woodward Hand” style of swept back pistol grip with a cap. Stock dimensions are 15” including a 3/4" recoil pad by 1-1/2” by 2”. Slightly cast off for the righthand shot.

This Victorian era Woodward is in very good mechanical condition but does show some slight pitting on the barrel flats, breech face, and on the exterior of the barrels hidden underneath the forearm. None of this impacts its operation and are not visible when the gun is assembled. The engraving on the action is in great condition – full coverage, sharp, and crisp. The wood is well figured and the gun handles very well indeed.

   ***   Please note that the photographs are part of the description. Not for sale where prohibited by state or local laws. Buyer is responsible for all shipping, insurance, and any other related charges. I give a 3-day non-firing -inspection period which begins when it arrives at the buyer’s FFL or specified address if the gun is classified as an Antique. Returns at buyer’s expense.
 

Antique: Yes

Price: $5,990.00