The 20-bore illustrated here features our distinctive scroll-back action with hand-detachable locks, incorporating the Taylor 1897 patent. Chambered for 2¾-inch cartridges and threaded for interchangeable Teague Precision Chokes (part of the Westley Richards Group), it was commissioned by an American customer as a traditionally styled, fully scroll-engraved game gun.
Like most of our modern small-bores, it is built to full adult dimensions rather than the smaller, lighter proportions more commonly encountered in vintage examples, many of which were originally made for ladies or younger shooters.
The stock measures 15½ inches to the centre, while the barrels are 28 inches long and fitted with a concave game rib. Despite its full-size dimensions, the gun weighs an impressively light 5lb 11oz, giving it exceptional liveliness and handling.
Historically, Westley Richards produced guns and rifles across a broad range of grades, from practical export models to exhibition-quality masterpieces. Today, we build only 'Best' quality guns and those of an even higher specification. Gun No. 20490, completed in 2025, is a true 'Best' quality example, stocked with a super-deluxe walnut blank selected for its exceptional figure and character.
The customer requested that the walnut be finished with a hand-rubbed satin oil finish rather than our traditional high-gloss finish. He also specified that the case colours be gently brushed back to create a subdued, understated appearance, avoiding the bright, polished effect often associated with freshly colour-hardened actions.
Many people are unaware that, after case colour hardening, the colours can be carefully brushed back to achieve anything from a vivid finish to a much more restrained appearance. This subtle treatment also enhances the visibility of the fine engraving, allowing its intricate detail to stand out with greater clarity.
While the engraving follows the traditional scroll pattern, the customer also specified carved fences and requested that the "SAFE" indication be inlaid in platinum rather than gold. As with every Westley Richards gun, the final specification reflects the individual preferences of its owner.
Beautifully balanced, delightfully responsive, and exceptionally light, this elegant game gun is perfectly suited to the smaller American game birds. Equally, it would excel on driven partridges or woodland pheasants in Britain, where instinctive handling, refined shooting style, and impeccable gun fit are the hallmarks of consistent success.
Whether for the discerning collector or the avid sportsman, Westley Richards firearms represent the epitome of excellence in the world of bespoke gunmaking. Known for the droplock shotgun, over and under shotgun, double barrel rifle and bolt action rifle, the company has achieved an illustrious 200 year history of innovation, craftmanship and artistry. As part of our best gun build, clients can choose from three levels of gun engraving: the house scroll; signature game scenes; and exhibition grade masterpieces. All Westley Richards sporting arms are built at their factory in Birmingham, England. Discover more about the gunmaking journey at our custom rifles and bespoke guns pages.
