The action is one of several invented by William Baker who had a knack of making a spring do several jobs. In the 12/20 the spring is compressed on closing the gun, so there is a strong push that opens the barrels, and when the gun is dismantled the springs are at rest. A similar deal to the Purdey action but much less complicated.
Beware though, there are those who do not attach much importance to simple clever design and the ability to get springs to multi task. One opinion expressed here was "who cares" [if Baker could get a spring to do so much].
I shot a 12/20, made by Lancaster, on a pattern plate. It was shot alongside a William Ford 2 inch 12. I liked the handling and feel of the 12/20 much more.
Last edited by Shotgunlover; 08/19/22 10:54 AM.
