E. Gale & Sons "The X.L." 12 Gauge Cartridge

A scarce Gale “The X.L.” 12-bore sporting cartridge, supplied by the historic Devon gunmaking firm of Edward Gale & Sons of Barnstaple and Bideford.

The Gale gunmaking business had its origins in Barnstaple in the late 19th century, becoming one of North Devon's established provincial gun and sporting businesses. Edward Gale later continued the family concern and is traditionally recorded as having trained with the prestigious London gunmaker James Purdey & Sons.

“The X.L.” was one of several proprietary cartridge names sold by Gale, alongside “The Flag,” “The Field” and “The County.” Such individually named cartridges were characteristic of the British gun trade, allowing regional gunmakers and sporting retailers to offer ammunition carrying their own distinctive branding.

Condition Report

Cartridge Specifics