Baker Gun & Forging Co. Batavia Leader 12 Gauge SxS, 30-inch Twist-Steel Barrels (circa 1905–1908)
This Baker Gun & Forging Co. Batavia Leader is a vintage 12-gauge sidelock side-by-side made in Batavia, New York, circa 1905–1908. It features pattern-welded twist-steel barrels with a matted rib and rib extension, double triggers, and classic checkered walnut furniture. As a period example from Baker’s Batavia line, it offers hallmark early-20th-century construction and styling.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair condition, showing extensive signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Fair - Generally clean, some residue or smudges, slight corrosion.
Specific Condition Notes: Metal surfaces show noticeable finish wear and thinning with areas of patina consistent with long-term handling; light surface oxidation may be present. The walnut stock and splinter forend show handling marks, finish wear, and age-related impressions, while remaining intact with no major structural cracks observed. Markings are present but exhibit wear from age. The overall appearance reflects honest use typical of an early 20th-century field shotgun. The firing pins appear in good condition with no visible pitting.
Cast and grip are neutral. Barrel fit is slightly loose, and top lever shows very minimal life in the locking mechanism.
What’s Included
- Baker Gun & Forging Co. Batavia Leader 12-gauge side-by-side shotgun
Details
Built in Batavia, New York between 1905 and 1908, the Batavia Leader represents Baker’s value-focused line from the early 1900s. This is a sidelock 12-gauge SxS with the core features collectors expect from the series and era.
The 30-inch pattern-welded twist-steel barrels are topped by a matted rib with a rib extension and a single brass front bead. The twist-steel construction and rib treatment reflect period manufacturing practices and provide a distinctive, period-correct barrel profile.
It uses a break-action, top-lever opening system with double triggers for left and right barrels. A manual tang safety offers straightforward control in keeping with traditional SxS operation.
The furniture is classic checkered walnut, including a pistol-grip buttstock with a hard buttplate and a checkered splinter forend. Length of pull is 14.5 inches.
As a U.S.-made Baker from the early 20th century, this Batavia Leader is a representative example of American field-grade doubles from its time, combining period barrel construction, traditional controls, and straightforward appointments.