Wm. MOORE & Co. (SN 2397): This is an antique exposed hammer side-by-side double-barrel side-action shotgun, with 30” (18.2 mm) choked 12 gauge Belgian laminated twist barrels, that are inscribed “FINE LAMINATED-STEEL” on the upper rib. The trade name ‘Wm. Moore & Co.’ was used predominantly by the Belgian gun manufacturer Henri Pieper. The barrel proof stamp indicates that this was manufactured before 1892, and so it was made at some point between the time Pieper started his business in 1884, and the proof date. This shotgun is unique in the fact that it has a rare inscription and side-lever action release. Antique—no C&R or FFL required.
HISTORY: ‘Wm. MOORE & Co.’ was a trade name used predominantly by the prolific Belgian gun manufacturer Henri Pieper (1884-1889), who sold these shotguns to various American importers and hardware companies. These guns are known to have come inscribed with “BELGIAN ROYAL DAMASCUS” and “BELGIAN FINE LAMINATED STEEL” on the upper rib of the barrel. The name was also reportedly used by Crescent Fire Arms Company on shotguns they made for the New York City importer H & D Folsom Co.
CONDITION: This firearm was disassembled (where possible); the metal components have been cleaned up (where possible), then greased and oiled; the wood components have been cleaned (not stripped or refinished), and then reassembled. It is in relative working order with exception of the firing pins; the hammer-locks both function and the springs are still strong. The side-lever break action works, but the barrels are a little loose to the action when closed. The barrels show some pitting and scoring imperfections inside indicating some use, but are in fair condition given their age. This firearm is not for shooting; it’s a wall hanger (art piece) and not a daily shooter. You see what you get, it is being sold ‘as is’ without an expressed or implied warranty—see the payment, shipping, and handling instructions below.
Wm. Moore & Co. "Fine Laminated Steel" 12 ga. SxS Shotgun
Although it is our intent to provide an accurate description of our items, the buyer/customer acknowledges and accepts that due to the nature of these used and antique firearms, there is no expressed or implied warranty. All sales are on an 'as is' and 'as you see it' basis, and are thus final.
Further, we offer our antique firearms as art display (wall hanger) pieces only, and they are not meant for functional use. In purchasing, the buyer/customer waives any and all right to make claim against the seller for use beyond this purpose. Where the buyer/customer decides to use the firearm(s) for its original purpose, we insist that the buyer first employ a reputable gunsmith to inspect and verify its functional and safe condition. We further insist that the buyer/customer always use the appropriate vintage ammunition and powder loads (or equal) that were available and contemporary to the age and original intended use of the firearm—we care about your safety.