doublegunshop.com - home Forums General Discussion DoubleGun BBS @ doublegunshop.com Westley Richards T-series SxS

A couple of years ago I acquired a Westley Richards 12-bore SxS, serial no. T11335 which, as far as I know, is one of WR's 'T series'. 32" barrels, cylinder and 3/4. Non-ejector. Purdey underbolts and Greener crossbolt.

Since the gun is largely unembellished, I thought that T-series guns were farmers' or gamekeepers' guns; however I saw photos of a pair of T-series guns made for an Indian maharajah which were extensively engraved and inlaid with gold. Definitely not farmer's guns!

I am confused over its age. Some years ago it's then owner phoned WR who said that the gun dated from 1938, but if I enter the serial number on WR's website, it gives a date of 1903. The engraving of the serial number and WR name looks somewhat old fashioned. The Birmingham proof marks appear to be those used 1904-1954.

Does anyone on this site know anything about the WR T-series guns in general? And does anyone own a T -series and have an idea of its date of manufacture so I can compare?

Any info gratefully received.
Nigel

Nigel:
The Dallas book puts T Series guns between 1902 and 1928. As to embellishment, the letter prefix guns are "generally" the more plainly finished. Your gun certainly conforms to that. Although it is still a Westley, and by that status commands respect as to its marque.

I do wish Simon Clode would deliver on the long-promised book of Westley history. It would be a boon to many.

My apologies for taking away from the original question.

Shooting Sportsman the newest issue, page 2, has an advertisement for the new Westley Richards book. "In Pursuit of The Best Gun." "Produced in large format with over 300 stunning colour images and previously unseen archive material."
Contact info to order is listed as:

karena@westleyrichards.co.uk

ph. = 406-586-1946

Hi Kensal,

Thanks for that. That would make my #11335 quite an early example. It's loose on the face at the moment so that the next step is to get that fixed.

Which Dallas book were you referring to?

Regards,
Nigel

Hi 1cdog,

I had seen a reference to the new book. I doubt there will be much change out of $200 for a copy. I'll have to persuade my wife to buy one for my birthday. It may take several attempts!

Thanks for the heads up.

Regards,
Nigel

I'd get some oil into it to arrest that rust if I were you!

T

T,

That's how it was on the day I got it. No rust now!

N.

Oh ok no offence!
T

None taken!
N.

The Barrel Proof marks are 1925-1954 so I think '38 could be right.