This shotgun is a rare example of an early British hammerless design.  The gun conforms to the Thomas Woodward Patent No. 651 of 1876. They were marketed in the late 1870’s and 1880’s as “The Acme” shotgun. Modern collectors refer to this design as the spiral spring Woodward.

1) Snap underlever action with fine scroll engraving to action & lock plates

2) 30” Damascus barrels, London proofed.

3) Unusual flip up safety and cocking indicators on top strap both conform to T. Woodward Patent No. 851.

4) Checkering worn and stock slightly cracked through at wrist.

5) Action marked “T.W. PATENT No. 651” in triangle along with patent use number 518.

6) Action marked “W & C. SCOTT & SON, MAKERS” along with tower trademark.

The entire action is tastefully engraved in tight English scroll.

Serial number is 24674. London proof marks.

Note the Tower stamp, the trademark of W&C Scott & Son

FURTHER READING

• Crudgington & Baker, The British Shotgun, Vol 2, 1871 - 1890, pg 12-13.
• Armory Publications, Patents for Inventions: Small Arms 1867 - 1876, pg 222.
• Boothroyd, Geoffrey, Shotguns & Gunsmiths: The Vintage Years, pg 40 - 42.
• Dallas, Donald, The British Sporting Gun and Rifle: Pursuit of Perfection 1850 - 1900, pg 213 - 214.