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Make: Janssen Sons & Co.
Model: Side by Side Hammer Shotgun
Serial Number: 9063 (Matching)
Year of Manufacture: Antique – Pre-1893 (Black Powder Proofs)
Caliber: 12 Gauge, 2 ½” Chamber (Black Powder Only)
Action Type: Side by Side, External Hammer, Double Trigger, Break Action
Markings: The lockplates are engraved “JANSSEN SONS & Co” in scroll-bordered panels. The underside of the barrels and barrel flats show Belgian black powder proof marks, including the ELG in oval definitive proof, Peron inspector mark, crowned E/L provisional proof, and “18.4” bore diameter stamps. The watertable is marked with the matching serial number “9063” and other inspection marks. The forend iron is also marked “9063”. The top rib is engraved “BELGIUM STEEL BARRELS” between decorative wave borders. The underside of the rib is marked “9063” and “22”.
Barrel Length: 30”
Choke: Both barrels measure Improved Cylinder (IC).
Sights / Optics: The shotgun features a brass bead front sight on the concave solid rib.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are highly embellished walnut with carved leaf and diamond patterns, detailed checkering, and silver pin inlays throughout. The straight grip buttstock ends in an engraved steel buttplate, and the splinter forend matches the carving. The wrist is solid with no cracks or stress, and the wood-to-metal fit remains tight. Handling marks and light finish wear are present but minor. In this writer’s opinion, the wood rates Very Good to Fine.
Type of Finish: Blued Belgium Steel Barrels, Coin-Finished Engraved Frame
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bores are bright and smooth, showing only light frosting. There is no visible pitting. In this writer’s opinion, the bores rate 9/10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains a combination of finish wear and aged patina. The left barrel has been partially cleaned to bright steel in spots, while the rest shows a uniform brown-gray patina with scattered freckling. The engraving remains crisp. The matching serial number 9063 appears on the barrels, frame, and forend iron. The screw heads show moderate tool marks but remain functional. The action locks up with slight movement when closed, typical of its age.
Mechanics: The hammers cock and release properly. The action opens and closes smoothly and locks up positively. The triggers function as intended. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements. This firearm should be inspected by a qualified gunsmith before any attempt to fire and should only be used with appropriate black powder loads if deemed safe.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Included with this item is a photocopy of a hand-written letter from Paul Walker Sr. discussing his son’s firearms and shooting experiences. We thank Mr. Walker Sr. for trusting us to help with his son’s collection.
Our Assessment: This Janssen Sons & Co. side-by-side shotgun is a striking example of Belgian export quality from the black powder era. Built before 1893, this gun is marked “BELGIUM STEEL BARRELS,” denoting fluid steel construction—an upgrade over the twist or damascus barrels still common at the time. From the fine scroll engraving to the carved walnut furniture with silver pin inlays, this shotgun blends artistry with ruggedness.
Janssen Sons & Co. was one of the respected makers in Liège’s golden age of gunmaking, known for finely finished sporting arms that balanced elegance and utility. Their guns reached markets across Europe and the Americas, admired for craftsmanship that often exceeded their price point. This example, with its deeply carved stocks and crisp engraving, is a testament to the pride Belgian smiths placed in their work—meant to last and meant to be admired.
What truly sets this piece apart is its provenance: this shotgun once belonged to Paul Walker, the late actor and avid firearms enthusiast. Known for his authentic spirit both on-screen and off, Paul’s appreciation for timeless craftsmanship and legacy pieces like this Janssen aligns beautifully with the soul of the gun itself. One can’t help but imagine that he, like the rest of us, marveled at the idea that this shotgun had already lived a full century before it came into his hands. And now, perhaps, in some quiet corner of eternity, Paul is speaking with the very men who forged it—trading stories in the universal language of wood, steel, and smoke.
For collectors of continental doubles, admirers of 19th-century artistry, or those drawn to pieces with meaningful provenance, this Janssen delivers both form and soul.