Pinfire SxS
 

I had been wanting a pinfire shotgun, just to have a part of the transition into modern centerfire cartridges(and because I like being different…). This is a Walker Newbury 12 Gauge with 30” Damascus barrels. It is relatively light at 7lbs. I couldn’t find too much about the maker other than Walker(I think with the first initials of G.E. and he may have been associated with Purdey at some point). You can see some proof marks in the last picture.

It is hard to find shells for these and I may try making my own. I did find a place out of France that makes them that has been nice and I just got these shells on Friday(The shells I used in the pictures are empty). I would “guess” this was made in the mid 1860s-1870s. Black powder only with these, which I am fine with. I can’t wait get this gun shooting again. I can only imagine the last time it was shot…

If you know anything more about it please let me know.

Thanks,
Jay

I refurbished an original trunk case for a pinfire sxs a couple of years ago that the owner still hunts with!

George E. Walker was a gunmaker in Newbury, Berkshire, from 1843 to 1869. His shop was on Northbrook Street. I don't know of any association with James Purdey. Very nice gun, by the way.

Thanks Bob! I appreciate the information. Being a pinfire, 1860s makes sense and seems possible. I did see an old auction listing from Morphy's a 10 gauge pinfire that was marked: “WALKER’S NEWBURY FROM PURDEY’S LONDON”. I optimistically thought there might be a connection.

Everytime I shoulder this gun I get more and more excited to use it. The bores are real nice and and it fits me very well. I just need to load up some shells and go...

Just noticed an internet post saying a Walker owner contacted Purdey and they said that Walker had worked for them. I hadn't heard of anyone other than William Evans using the "From Purdeys" on their guns, but I'm not an expert by any measure. Evans didn't open his own shop until 1883.

A bit of caution is do. Absolutely wear safety glasses when shooting pinfire guns. If I may ask what did they charge for their shells. Beautiful gun.

Wayne, I sent you a PM with the shell information...

Several years ago Ross Seyfried wrote an article, in "Handloader" I believe, about making pinfire shotshells from brass shotshells. I don't remember the issue but do remember that it was not a difficult task.

I have a Belgium made 16 gauge pinfire that I keep thinking I'm going to shoot but I haven't gotten to it yet. Another one of those some day projects.

Jay,

You may find this article useful on Pinfir cartridges https://www.vintageguns.co.uk/magazi...artridge-cases.

Nice looking gun.

Ken

Pinfire
 

That is truly a beautiful gun. That figure and color of the butt wood is just marvelous.