Westley Richards SLE 20 gauge – GOLD INLAY, KEITH THOMAS ENGRAVED

A unique example from one of the finest gunmakers in the world, this shotgun is a fine example of the creativity and craftsmanship at Westley Richards.  The case hardened, coin finished sidelock receiver was engraved by Keith Thomas.  The gun was nitroproofed in Birmingham and the measurements today match those of the marks, so the gun remains in proof.  The left sidelock features a quail atop a fencepost and the right a pheasant, each in a game scene surrounded by big, leafy scroll and the Westley Richards moniker in a banner.  Among the scroll on the bottom, you can also find the Banner with Westley Richards and the engravers signature is alongside the trigger.  There are a variety of factory metal finishes to be found – as mentioned a coin finished receiver, gold inlaid Plum top lever and rolled-edge trigger guard, a blued barrels, safety switch and forend iron, as well as worn case color on the diamond forend escutcheon and Anson & Deely latch.  All these finishes come together to a curiously handsome shotgun that will standout, even among other “Best” guns.  The point pattern checkering with mullered borders is expertly executed, with nice transitions around the wrist, trigger guard and diamond-shaped forend escutcheon.  The stock has honest handling marks from days in the field. A standout in terms of design, quality, and features, this shotgun is ready to be put to use in the field or at the clays course.