George Gibbs is a gunmaker we don’t hear a lot about today. Even though he helped design one of the most successful hammerless shotguns of the 19th century, and his son partnered with William Metford to create one of the finest falling-block rifles of the 1870 and 1880s, you would be hard pressed to find a hunter or shooter who recognizes the firms name today. This is a shame, because many of the guns built by George Gibbs, Gunmakers are fantastic.
This George Gibbs .450 3 1/4″ Double Rifle is one example of just how nice a Gibbs can be. The pair of sidelock shotguns you see here are two more. Graham Mackinlay has these guns now. Made as a true pair of Best-quality side-by-sides, they’re in beautiful shape.
Pair of 12 gauge George Gibbs Sidelock Double Barrel Shotguns: These are ‘best’ grade sidelocks and have been in one family from new. Both guns retain a large amount of colour hardening. The actions and locks are engraved with incredibly fine acanthus scroll. They have 29″ steel barrels with fine sunken top ribs which read, ‘George Gibbs Bristol and 35 Savile Row, London W (barrels Sir Joseph Whitworth fluid pressed steel)’. The guns are in their original leather case with named accessories, striker pot and disc key. The highly figures stocks are 14 3/4″ with leather-covered pads. The barrels of these guns are in phenomenal condition and will last several generations. It’s rare to find some fine guns in this condition. Price: £ 25,000
