SERIAL NUMBERS FOR ALL E.J. CHURCHILL GUNS MANUFACTURED UNTIL 1957

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Here are the serial numbers for E.J. Churchill guns from 1891 to 1957:

Origins: Edwin John Churchill and the London Gun Trade (1891–1910)

The story of E.J. Churchill Gunmakers begins in the heart of London during the late Victorian era, a golden age of British gunmaking. The company was founded in 1891 by Edwin John Churchill, who established his workshop at 8 Agar Street, near the Strand—then a center of fine gunmaking craftsmanship. (Shooting Sportsman)

Edwin Churchill had trained under established gunmakers before setting up his own business, gaining experience in both craftsmanship and gun fitting. (Blue Book of Gun Values) His early reputation was built on producing high-quality pigeon guns, designed for competitive shooting—a hugely popular sport at the time. Churchill himself was an accomplished marksman, and his practical shooting experience directly influenced his designs.

Unlike many gunmakers who relied purely on tradition, Churchill approached gunmaking from a performance-driven perspective. He understood balance, fit, and speed in shooting, and he tailored his firearms accordingly. His guns quickly gained favor among professional shooters and sportsmen, establishing the Churchill name as one associated with precision and innovation.

In addition to manufacturing firearms, Churchill—like many gunmakers of the period—also supplied ammunition and offered expertise in ballistics. Both Edwin and his later partner were even consulted as experts in criminal investigations involving firearms. (Shooting Sportsman)

However, the company’s early success faced challenges. The popularity of live pigeon shooting declined in the early 20th century, affecting demand. Personal tragedy also struck Edwin Churchill, who suffered deeply after the death of his son in 1902. He died in 1910, leaving the future of the company uncertain. (Blue Book of Gun Values)

The Robert Churchill Era and Innovation (1910–1958)

Following Edwin’s death, the company was taken over by his nephew, Robert Churchill, who would become one of the most influential figures in the history of British shotguns.

Robert Churchill not only saved the business financially but transformed it into a powerhouse of innovation. He formalized the company as E.J. Churchill (Gunmakers) Ltd. in 1917 and led it through the turbulent years of World War I and beyond. (Blue Book of Gun Values)

The XXV Revolution

One of the most significant contributions of Robert Churchill to gunmaking was the development of the “XXV” shotgun, introduced between 1913 and 1915. (Shooting Sportsman)

At a time when long barrels were considered essential for accuracy, Churchill challenged convention. He argued that shorter barrels—specifically 25-inch barrels (hence “XXV”)—offered superior handling and faster target acquisition.

This was revolutionary.

Traditional gunmakers criticized the concept, but Churchill backed his claims with demonstrations and persuasive marketing. He even authored books on shooting to promote his ideas. The XXV shotgun featured:

• Short 25-inch barrels

• A distinctive raised, inverted-V rib

• Lightweight, fast-handling design

The result was a shotgun optimized for speed and instinctive shooting, particularly suited to driven game shooting.

The market response was overwhelming. By the mid-1920s, demand for XXV guns exceeded the company’s production capacity. (Blue Book of Gun Values) Other manufacturers began copying the concept, cementing Churchill’s influence on modern shotgun design.

Craftsmanship and Prestige

During the early to mid-20th century, E.J. Churchill established itself among the elite London gunmakers. Its shotguns were known for:

• Exceptional balance and handling

• Elegant engraving and craftsmanship

• Custom fitting for individual shooters

• Innovative design philosophy

The company produced both side-by-side shotguns and, later, over-and-under models, including high-end bespoke firearms. Examples such as the “Premiere” sidelock ejector guns demonstrate the level of artistry and engineering achieved, featuring intricate engraving, precision mechanisms, and premium materials. (Christie’s)

Churchill guns were not just tools—they were luxury sporting instruments, comparable to Savile Row tailoring in their bespoke nature.

Decline and Transformation (1950s–1980s)

After Robert Churchill’s death in 1958, the company entered a period of transition. The post-war years were difficult for traditional British gunmakers:

In 1959, the company was sold and underwent restructuring. (Blue Book of Gun Values) It later acquired the historic firm Atkin, Grant & Lang, forming a combined entity.

Despite these efforts, economic pressures continued to mount. By 1980, the company ceased operations, and its remaining inventory was auctioned off in 1981. (Blue Book of Gun Values)

This marked the end of E.J. Churchill as an active gunmaker—at least temporarily.

Revival and Modern Era (1980s–Present)

The Churchill name did not disappear. In 1984, it was re-registered, and in 1996, the rights were acquired by West Wycombe Shooting Grounds Ltd., which began rebuilding the brand. (Blue Book of Gun Values)

Today, E.J. Churchill operates as a modern sporting company while preserving its heritage. Its headquarters at the West Wycombe Estate in Buckinghamshire serve as a hub for:

• Gunmaking

• Shooting instruction

• Sporting events

• Retail and clothing

The company is unique in combining multiple aspects of shooting sports under one brand, including a shooting ground, gun room, and sporting agency. (E.J. Churchill)

Importantly, modern Churchill shotguns include both:

• Bespoke British-made guns

• Guns built in collaboration with Italian and Spanish manufacturers to Churchill specifications (Gentleman’s Journal)

This approach allows the company to maintain quality while offering a broader range of price points.

E.J. Churchill Shotguns: Design Philosophy

Across its history, Churchill has maintained a consistent philosophy:

1. Performance over tradition

Churchill challenged long-standing assumptions about shotgun design, particularly with the XXV concept.

2. Fit and handling

Churchill emphasized that a shotgun must fit the shooter perfectly—an idea now widely accepted in modern shooting.

3. Innovation

From barrel length to rib design, Churchill was willing to experiment and improve.

4. Craftsmanship

Even today, Churchill guns are associated with fine materials, engraving, and attention to detail.

Types of Churchill Shotguns:

Side-by-Side Shotguns

The classic British sporting shotgun, favored in Churchill’s early years. Known for elegance and balance, these guns remain highly collectible.

Over-and-Under Shotguns

Later developments included over-and-under designs, such as the modern Crown model, which is available in multiple gauges and configurations and designed for both game and clay shooting. (E.J. Churchill)

Bespoke Guns

Churchill continues to offer fully bespoke shotguns, tailored to individual clients—similar to luxury tailoring.

The Legacy of the XXV

The XXV shotgun remains Churchill’s most famous innovation. Its impact can be seen in:

• Modern preferences for shorter, lighter shotguns

• Emphasis on handling speed

• Evolution of game shooting techniques

Although controversial at the time, the XXV helped redefine what shooters expect from a shotgun.

Churchill in the Context of British Gunmaking

E.J. Churchill belongs to the tradition of London “best gun” makers, alongside names like Purdey and Holland & Holland. While perhaps not as globally famous, Churchill’s contribution is unique:

• It combined innovation with tradition

• It influenced shooting technique as much as gun design

• It maintained a strong connection to practical shooting

Unlike some competitors focused purely on luxury, Churchill emphasized usability and performance.

Collectability and Value

Vintage E.J. Churchill shotguns, particularly:

are highly collectible today.

Their value depends on:

• Condition

• Originality

• Provenance

• Craftsmanship

Some examples have sold for significant sums at auction, reflecting their status as fine sporting arms.

Conclusion

The history of E.J. Churchill Gunmakers is a story of innovation, resilience, and craftsmanship.

Founded in 1891 by Edwin John Churchill, the company rose to prominence through its dedication to performance and quality. Under Robert Churchill, it revolutionized shotgun design with the XXV, challenging traditional ideas and influencing generations of shooters.

Despite periods of decline and eventual closure in 1980, the Churchill name was revived and continues to represent excellence in shooting sports today.

Churchill shotguns stand as a testament to the evolution of gunmaking—from handcrafted London guns to modern sporting arms—while maintaining a core philosophy:
a shotgun should be fast, balanced, and perfectly suited to its shooter.