W.W. Greener is one of the most influential names in British gunmaking, renowned for innovation, durability, and technical excellence. Founded in the 19th century, the company became famous not only for its high-quality sporting firearms but also for its groundbreaking mechanical designs and contributions to firearms engineering.
Here are serial numbers for bespoke gun made by W.W. Greener from 1878 to 1967
| Year starting | Serial Number |
| 1878 | 19304 |
| 1880 | 22860 |
| 1895 | 38917 |
| 1902 | 50911 |
| 1915 | 58536 |
| 1920 | 62621 |
| 1930 | 68635 |
| 1967 | 79259 |
Origins and Founder (Early–Mid 19th Century)
The Greener gunmaking tradition began with William Greener, who established his business in Birmingham, England, in the early 1800s. His son, William Wellington Greener, later expanded and elevated the company, giving it the name W.W. Greener.
William Wellington Greener was not only a gunmaker but also an author and engineer. His writings on firearms, particularly The Gun and Its Development, became highly influential and are still referenced today.
Rise to Prominence
Under W.W. Greener’s leadership, the company grew into one of the most respected gunmakers in Britain. Birmingham, known for its industrial strength, provided an ideal environment for large-scale yet high-quality production.
Greener firearms gained a reputation for strength and reliability, making them popular among both sportsmen and professional users.
Innovations and Patents
W.W. Greener was responsible for several important innovations in firearm design, many of which set new standards for strength and safety.
Key innovations include:
- Greener Cross-Bolt: An additional locking mechanism that passes through the breech, significantly increasing the strength of the action.
- Facile Princeps Action: A refined boxlock system designed to combine simplicity with durability and ease of maintenance.
- Improved choke boring: Greener contributed to the development and popularization of choke boring, improving shot pattern performance.
These features helped distinguish Greener guns from competitors and contributed to their long-lasting reputation.
Types of Firearms Produced
W.W. Greener produced a wide variety of firearms, ranging from affordable working guns to high-grade sporting arms.
1. Side-by-Side Shotguns
These were the company’s primary products, available in numerous grades. They were known for their strength, reliability, and practical design, often incorporating the Greener cross-bolt system.
2. Facile Princeps Boxlock Guns
This design became one of Greener’s most famous contributions. It offered a robust and relatively simple mechanism that appealed to both hunters and sports shooters.
3. Martini-Action Shotguns and Rifles
Greener adapted the Martini action, originally used in military rifles, into sporting firearms. These single-shot guns were especially valued for their strength and simplicity.
4. Police and Special-Purpose Guns
The company also produced firearms for law enforcement and security use, including the well-known Greener “police gun,” which was designed to be robust and tamper-resistant.
Golden Age (Late 1800s–Early 1900s)
The late 19th and early 20th centuries represented the peak of W.W. Greener’s success. During this period, the company exported firearms worldwide and built a strong international reputation.
Greener guns were widely used across the British Empire, valued for their ability to withstand harsh conditions while maintaining reliable performance.
High-grade Greener shotguns also featured fine engraving and quality materials, placing them in competition with leading London gunmakers.
20th Century Challenges
Like many traditional gunmakers, W.W. Greener faced difficulties during the 20th century. Economic downturns, world wars, and changing market preferences reduced demand for bespoke double guns.
The rise of cheaper mass-produced firearms and repeating shotguns also affected sales.
Despite these challenges, the company continued to operate and maintained its reputation for producing durable, well-engineered firearms.
Modern Era
W.W. Greener continues to exist today, though on a much smaller scale than during its peak years. The brand remains associated with traditional British gunmaking values, including craftsmanship, reliability, and mechanical innovation.
Vintage Greener firearms are especially popular among collectors and shooters who appreciate their strength and historical importance.
Characteristics of W.W. Greener Guns
Greener firearms are known for several defining features:
- Exceptional strength and durability
- Innovative mechanical designs
- Practical, field-oriented construction
- Wide range of grades and configurations
The Greener cross-bolt, in particular, remains one of the most recognizable features in shotgun design.
Legacy and Significance
W.W. Greener holds a unique place in firearms history as both a manufacturer and an innovator. The company’s contributions to gun design, especially in action strength and choke boring, have had a lasting impact on the industry.
Its firearms represent a balance between practical engineering and traditional craftsmanship, making them highly regarded even today.
Conclusion
From its beginnings in Birmingham to its global reputation, W.W. Greener has played a major role in shaping modern firearm design. Its innovations, particularly the cross-bolt locking system and Facile Princeps action, set new standards for strength and reliability.
Today, Greener firearms remain valued as both functional tools and historical pieces, reflecting a legacy of innovation and craftsmanship that continues to influence gunmaking around the world.
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