Churchill XXV
E.J. Churchill (Gunmakers) Ltd · Shotgun · In Production · 1925
Also known as: Churchill XXV, E.J. Churchill XXV, Imperial XXV
Overview
The Churchill XXV is a British best-quality side-by-side double-barrel shotgun designed by Robert Churchill and introduced in 1925. Its defining feature is its short 25-inch (635 mm) barrels — the Roman numeral 'XXV' from which it takes its name — paired with a distinctive high, narrow tapered rib that creates the optical illusion of a longer barrel. Built in 12, 16, 20 and 28 gauge, it was offered as a sidelock or boxlock ejector game gun with chopper-lump barrels, double triggers and a bespoke-fitted walnut stock. Churchill argued that the shorter, lighter barrels gave faster handling and quicker, more instinctive pointing, challenging the prevailing belief that long barrels were essential for accuracy.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 2920 g (103.0 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1080 mm (42.52") |
| Barrel Length | 635 mm (25.00") |
| Action Type | Break Action |
| Firing Mechanism | Internal Hammer |
| Magazine Capacity | 2 rounds |
| Muzzle Velocity | 400 m/s (1312 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 2560 J (1888 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 40 m (44 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 300 m (328 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Smoothbore |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Walnut |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- 12 Gauge · primary — also known as 12GA, 12 Bore
Features
- Firing modes: Manual
- Feed systems: Break Open Double Barrel
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety, Automatic Safety
- Features: Sidelock Ejector, Chopper Lump Barrels, Raised Tapered Rib, Side By Side Barrels, Bespoke Stock Fitting, Double Triggers
Variants
- Churchill Imperial XXV - Sidelock Ejector
- Churchill Hercules XXV - Boxlock Ejector
- Churchill Utility XXV - Boxlock Ejector
Production
Production years: 1925-present
Demand for the XXV exceeded the firm's production capacity by the mid-1920s; the design remains available as a bespoke build from the revived E.J. Churchill
Origin
Country of origin: United Kingdom
Designer: Robert Churchill
Notes
Quoted weight is for a typical 12-bore example (roughly 6 lb 6 oz / 2.9 kg); individual bespoke guns vary. Chambered for 2 3/4-inch (70 mm) cartridges. The XXV designation was a registered Churchill trademark.
Background
E.J. Churchill was founded in 1891 by Edwin John Churchill in London; his nephew Robert Churchill joined in 1899 and went on to develop the XXV. A noted ballistics expert who served as an expert witness in British murder trials, Robert Churchill marketed the XXV as 'the gun that shot where you looked,' championing instinctive wing-shooting over calculated aim.