Thomas Bland 16 Ga – SIDELOCK, 1918, 28”, 5 ¾ POUNDS

Thomas Bland & Sons of London have been makers of fine shotguns since 1867 and are still in business today! The Thomas Bland guns have always been known to be very well made, respected game guns, especially the guns of the early 20th century. Bland was known for its waterfowlers, including punt guns, and even whaler harpoon guns! They also made tiny 28ga. guns and everything in between. This gun is very special in that it is a London BACK ACTION sidelock in a 16 gauge that is highly sought after in the upland world as well as the vintage side x side events that have blossomed across the country. A back action sidelock is superior to a “bar action sidelock” as it has the main spring behind the hammer rather than forward of the hammer in an area cut out of the action steel like most sidelocks. Back action guns are stronger than bar action sidelock guns as there is no steel removed from the action for the main spring to fit. There was relatively few London guns produced in the 16 gauge that “carries like a 20, hits like a 12”. This gun remains in excellent condition with 98% condition overall, vivid case colors, excellent screws, and nicely figured English walnut stocks with a hand-rubbed oil finish, superb checkering, and terminating in a fine Purdey style leather covered pad. Weighing just 5 ¾ pounds and balanced perfectly on the hinge pin, this gun has the most desirable 28” barrels choked IC/F and MOST IMPORTANTLY REMAINS IN PROOF WITH PROPER BORE DIAMETER AND 2 ½” CHAMBERS. This gun was reproofed in 1994 in Birmingham Proof House as is indicated by the stamps on the barrel flats. We have plenty of 16ga. shotshells in 2 ½” in stock to go with your gun. The stock dimensions are excellent (see specifications below), and we have gunsmiths on staff if you need any alterations. It is rare to find any English double gun sidelock 16ga. at an affordable price, let alone one that is in superb condition that includes an English case with accessories along with the gun (a $1000 value). Just in time for the late season upland birds, this gun has the quick handling, easy carrying characteristics that are worth more than our asking price. Priced to sell, so don’t hesitate on this well-known maker’s offering. Thanks for looking!