Essex Gun Works SX 12 Gauge Side-by-Side Shotgun, External Hammers, 21.25" Barrels
This Essex Gun Works SX is a late-production American hammer double built for Belknap Hardware by Crescent Fire Arms. It retains its original color-case-hardened receiver, genuine armory steel barrels, and Greener-style cross-bolt locking system, while featuring period-style custom touches such as a shortened 21.25" barrel set, aftermarket Pachmayr recoil pad, and an added rear sling swivel stud. Collectors will note the external “rabbit-ear” hammers and double triggers that mark the end of the mass-market hammer-gun era.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair – Extensive signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good – Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Specific Condition Notes: The metal surfaces show scattered scratches, scuffs, and small blemishes. The shortened barrels display moderate pitting and corrosion near the muzzles.
What’s Included
- Essex Gun Works SX 12 Gauge side-by-side shotgun
Produced in the 1900–1930 era, the SX carries Essex’s “GENUINE ARMORY STEEL” marking and double under-lug lock-up, giving it solid mechanical integrity for its age. The Greener-style cross-bolt adds a layer of strength that was uncommon on trade-brand guns of the period.
Both barrels are fixed Improved Modified, providing versatile choke performance despite the 21.25" length. The muzzles were professionally shortened, and the original bead front sight was retained for a traditional sight picture.
The color-case-hardened receiver still shows muted case colors that contrast with the blued barrel set. External hammers, double triggers, and a break-action design deliver classic operation favored by traditionalists and collectors alike.
Walnut furniture includes a pistol-grip stock with machine checkering and a splinter forend. The aftermarket orange Pachmayr recoil pad extends length of pull to 13.75" while improving shoulder comfort, and the added sling swivel stud offers practical field carry.