This is a W. Richards Side By Side 16 gauge Hammer Shotgun. This is a fine condition example of a high grade European double barrel shotgun that was very popular in the latter part of the 19th century in both the United States and in Europe. This example is better than most encountered on the collector market today as it has a solid, un-cracked stock with sharp checkering patterns on the pistol grip as well as on the forend. The 32‰Û barrels are marked on top ‰ÛÏLAMINATED STEEL‰Û and retain bright and shiny bores. Most of these shotguns are found in 12 gauge with 16 and 20 gauge examples being scarce and commanding premium values on the collector market today. The twist steel pattern is still distinct on both barrels and both lock plates are clearly marked ‰ÛÏW. RICHARDS.‰Û This shotgun has the popular and desirable side lever instead of the more common swinging lever mounted on the top of the upper tang behind the receiver. Pressing downward on the lever releases the barrels for loading and for the removal of fired shells. The action is extremely tight on this example which in itself is unusual as most from this era have been ‰ÛÏshot loose‰Û over time. Both rebounding hammers retain strong springs and function correctly. Both barrels show good twist steel patterns, no dents and have not been cleaned. They display a most attractive original brown patina. The lock plates and receiver are similarly un-restored and retain traces of original case color. The butt plate, too, is original and unaltered. Overall, a fine example in a scarce gauge that would be too costly to mass produce today. The firearm qualifies as an Antique Shotgun, and does not require FFL Transfer or NICS Background Check. Serial Number: NSN. For a complete representation of condition and for additional images please call 800-686-4216. It is the buyer‰Ûªs responsibility to view each image and preview the item to determine condition.