Manufactured in 1885 per the chart on page 123 of Nigel Brown's "British Gunmakers Volume One: London". This unusual early hammerless shotgun was made using James Lang's patent trigger plate lever-cocking action (patent no. 545 of February 9, 1878). Blued Damascus steel barrels with smooth, flat solid rib which is marked with a lion passant gardant in a similar style to those found on the British Royal Coat of Arms, a "1" marked on either breech along with a light band of engraving, "JOSEPH LANG & SON" and "22. COCKSPUR St PALL MALL. LONDON." marked on the left and right respectively, and 2 7/8 inch chambers with single extractor. The casehardened sideplated action displays beautifully carved fences and tight floral scroll surrounding "JOSEPH LANG & SON." on either sideplate as well as three game scenes. The left sideplate shows a trio of partridge, the top tang shows a pheasant, and the right plate has a setter flushing a goose. The gun features bushed firing pins, double triggers, and tang mounted manual safety lever with gold inlaid "SAFE". Beautifully figured, multi-point checkered splinter forend with engraved fittings and a straight grip stock with smooth horn buttplate. Includes a leather bound double gun takedown case which features a Joseph Lang trade label and houses both "A" and "B" as well as a pair of 10 gauge snap cap, nickel oiler, case handle (detached), loading tools, and two turnscrews. Barrel and stock measurements (R/L): bore diameter measured nine inches from the breech .794/.779 inches; choke constriction .000/.023 inches; 1 1/2 inch drop at comb; 1 3/4 inch drop at heel; 14 3/16 inch length of pull; weight 7 lbs. 12 oz.

Fine, showing strong Damascus patterns on the barrels, strong traces of case colors in the protected areas, and mild handling evidence. The wood is very good with some marring on the left of the stock, otherwise dings and scratches and crisp checkering. The case is good with missing (but included) handle and moderate storage/travel wear. Mechanically excellent.

As "A" with "2" marked on either breech and different engraving. The engraving consists of floral scroll surrounding "JOSEPH LANG & SON." on either sideplate and three game scenes. The left sideplate shows a setter chasing a woodcock, the right shows a pair of setters preparing to flush a grouse, and the top tang has a woodcock in flight. Barrel and stock measurements (R/L): bore diameter measured nine inches from the breech .796/.777 inches; choke constriction .000/.023 inches; 1 1/2 inch drop at comb; 2 inch drop at heel; 14 3/16 inch length of pull; weight 7 lbs. 13 oz.

Fine, showing a mostly silvered patination on the barrels with some areas of strong pattern, traces of case colors in the protected areas, and mild handling evidence. The wood is very fine with some dings, nicks, and scratches and overall crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent.