The Legacy of E.J. Churchill

And The XXV Hercules Finest Quality SXS 28 Gauge

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The Legacy of E.J. Churchill: And The XXV Hercules Finest Quality SXS 28 Gauge

Part 1 – A History of Gun Making Excellence

Founded in 1891 by Edwin John Churchill, E.J. Churchill is a name synonymous with innovation, craftsmanship, and enduring prestige in the world of British gunmaking. With roots that extend deep into the annals of the London gun trade, the company has forged a reputation for high-quality shotguns designed to meet the needs of discerning sportsmen, both in the United Kingdom and abroad.

E.J. Churchill began its journey in a period marked by rapid industrial advancement and a burgeoning demand for precision firearms. The firm initially specialized in pigeon guns, catering to a growing clientele that included British aristocrats and wealthy Americans. Early success came in part due to Edwin’s apprenticeship under Dorchester gunmaker Charles Jeffery and his work with F.T. Baker in London. By the turn of the century, Churchill's client list had expanded to include influential figures like W. Gould Brokaw, a wealthy American sportsman. This association, along with others, catapulted the firm’s reputation on both sides of the Atlantic.

In 1910, following the death of Edwin John Churchill, his nephew, Robert Churchill, took the reins. Under Robert’s stewardship, the company entered a period of both innovation and growth, reaching its zenith between the two world wars. A visionary in his own right, Robert Churchill introduced the now-iconic "XXV" model. These revolutionary 25-inch-barreled guns offered a lighter, quicker handling alternative to the longer-barreled guns preferred by traditionalists, transforming the firm’s appeal and attracting a broader clientele.

The XXV shotguns stood out for their unique design, combining short barrels with a high, tapered rib that created an optical illusion of length, offering shooters increased comfort and precision. Robert’s bold move away from the industry standard of longer barrels was met with initial skepticism, but the guns proved to be a hit with shooters of smaller stature and those who sought a more versatile field gun. Royal endorsement soon followed, with the Prince of Wales, later King Edward VIII, commissioning a pair of these distinctive sidelocks. The royal approval added to Churchill’s prestige, and its XXV guns became some of the most sought-after in the market.