Offered for sale is a classic and highly desirable English game gun built by William Powell & Son, one of Birmingham’s most respected historic makers. Founded in 1802, William Powell & Son established a reputation for building refined, reliable sporting arms that were trusted in the field rather than simply admired in the case. Their guns represent the heart of the English gun trade-well-balanced, properly built, and designed with purpose.
This 12 gauge boxlock ejector is a true example of that philosophy.
Built with 26” barrels and weighing just 6lbs 3oz, this is a lively, fast-handling gun ideally suited for upland hunting. The configuration is exactly what a knowledgeable shooter looks for in an English field gun: double triggers, straight English grip, and a smooth concave game rib. The result is a shotgun that carries effortlessly and mounts instinctively.
The gun is chambered for 2 3/4” shells and is choked Improved Cylinder and Modified, making it extremely practical for a wide range of hunting applications from close-working birds to longer crossing shots.
Stock dimensions are excellent and highly usable:
– Length of pull: 14 5/8” over front trigger
– Drop at comb: 1 5/8”
– Drop at heel: 2 1/8”
– Cast: 3/16” off at face
The walnut stock is in very fine condition with sharp checkering and attractive figure, showing proper care and preservation. The action retains crisp engraving with a pleasing, honest patina consistent with a well-maintained English gun. Screws remain clean and well-indexed, further supporting the overall originality and integrity of the piece.
What makes this gun particularly appealing is its weight and balance. At just over six pounds, it falls into the category of true lightweight English game guns-built to be carried all day in the field without fatigue. This is not a heavy target gun, but rather a purpose-driven upland piece meant for quail, grouse, woodcock, and other fast-flushing birds.
William Powell guns occupy a unique position in the market. They are not entry-level trade guns, nor are they priced into the stratosphere like London bests. Instead, they offer the knowledgeable buyer an opportunity to own a genuine English sporting gun with proper proportions, craftsmanship, and heritage-without compromise.
This example stands out for its clean condition, correct configuration, and excellent handling characteristics. It is equally at home in the field or as part of a thoughtful collection of classic British sporting arms.
Shotgun Gauge: 12 Gauge
Manufacturer: William & Powell
Model: BLE
Serial Number: 10555
Barrel Length: 26
Chambers: 2 3/4
Condition: Excellent
Metal Condition: Excellent
Wood Condition: Excellent
Bore Condition: Excellent
Triggers: Double
Stock Comb: 1 5/8
Stock Heel: 2 1/8″
Stock Cast: 3/16″ off
LOP: 14 5/8
Rib: Concave smooth
Weight: 6.3
Sights: Silver Bead
Chokes: Improved Cylinder and Modifie
Item Location: Michigan
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