Chatham Arms Co. 12 Gauge SxS Hammer Shotgun, 30 in Barrels, Crescent Trade Brand, Late 19th–Early 20th Century — Selling As Is
This Chatham Arms Co. 12 gauge side-by-side is a Crescent Fire Arms trade-brand gun produced for Hibbard, Spencer, Bartlett & Co. of Chicago. It features external hammers, back-action sidelocks, and a top-lever break with a rib-extension "doll's head" locking bite. With 30 inch barrels, extractor-only operation, and period geometry, it represents a late 19th–early 20th century American hardware-store double.
Selling as is.
Condition
Overall Condition: Poor condition.
Bore Overall Condition: Poor - Noticeable dirt, stains, significant corrosion or damage.
Bore Fouling: Severe Fouling - Extensive corrosion, pitting, or erosion.
Specific Condition Notes: Selling as is. Firearm presents as a restoration candidate with heavily worn components and wood furniture. Surfaces show rusting throughout with pitting and deep scratches. Exact model could not be determined. The top lever rests at the 6 o'clock position and the barrel fit is very loose.
The extractor functions. Firing pins show heavy pitting, and the left firing pin does not protrude when fired. A cloth wrap is present around the wrist.
What’s Included
- Chatham Arms Co. 12 gauge side-by-side hammer shotgun (as described)
- Cloth wrap around wrist (installed)
Manufactured in the United States as a trade-brand by Crescent Fire Arms for Hibbard, Spencer, Bartlett & Co., this shotgun is marked "CHATHAM ARMS CO" on both lockplates. The configuration reflects classic American commercial doubles from the period, with back-action sidelocks and external hammers paired to double triggers.
The action is a top-lever break with a rib-extension "doll's head" locking bite and extractor-only operation. This non-ejector setup aligns with the hardware-store guns Crescent produced for private labels at the turn of the century.
Barrels measure 30 inches and sit side-by-side with a plain solid rib and traditional sighting plane. Capacity is 2. The rib extension and solid rib are consistent with period construction intended for straightforward field use.
The hardwood stock with a round-knob/half-pistol (Prince of Wales) grip has a checkered wrist, a splinter forend, and a thin checkered buttplate. Stock geometry is neutral cast/neutral grip with a slight toe out, and the length of pull measures 13.5 inches. No sling swivels are present. A cloth wrap remains in place around the wrist.