BERETTA – SO3 – 12ga 28″ M / F – English Stock – Double Trigger – Leather Pad

BERETTA – SO3 – 12ga 28″ M / F – English Stock – Double Trigger – Leather Pad: 2-3/4″, 28″ M / F (.020 / .037), LOP 14-3/4″, Drop 1-3/8″ to 2-1/8″, Slight Cast Off for Right Hand, Weight 7 lbs. 2 oz. Excellent Condition. Barrels retain about 97% original blue. The Trigger Guard has been refinished. The wood was recently recheckered and refinished – Excellent Work. New Leather Covered Pad. Price: $6,450

JOSEPH LANG 12GA, SxS, 2 BL SET: SIDELOCK EJECTOR, 30″ BARRELS, ONE SET CHOKED .022 AND .035, SECOND SET TRUE CYLINDER AND .019. BARRELS ARE CHOPPER LUMP. GUN DATES FROM 1913. ENGLISH STRAIGHT STOCK, 14 3/8 PULL TO A LEATHER BUTT , 1 1/4 x 2 3/4 DROP, SINGLE TRIGGER, HIGH QUALITY BOUQUET AND SCROLL ENGRAVING, CLASSIC LOOK, NICE LOOKING GUN IN GREAT SHAPE, CASED, WITH LETTER FROM DOUGLAS TATE OF BRITISH GAME GUNS. Price: $17,500

JOSEPH LANG 12GA, SxS, 2 BL SET

MERKEL, O/U, Model 201E, 16 GA,

MERKEL, O/U, Model 201E, 16 GA: 28”, IC& IM, DT, Straight Grip, 3-piece Forened, Solid Rib, Fine Scroll & Rosette Engraving, Gray Receiver, Pad, Mfg 1953, 1 1/2 x 2 1/2 x 14 5/8 with 1/4 cast off, Weight 6#8oz, 2 3/4″ chambers, ID 3845, EXC. Condition. Price: $5,500

Ithaca 4E 20 gauge with 28″ bbls: This is a Lewis & Nig model 4E with 28″ long barrels and double, gold plated, checkered triggers. The length of pull is 14-1/4″ to a factory butt plate. This gun was made in 1906. The left bore is .633 dia with .005 choke and the Right bore is .636 dia and has .039 choke. The barrel wall thickness in the thinest area is .025, so it’s barrel thickness is OK. The barrel tops are marked Krupp Fluid Steel. Wonderful bird gun with beautiful wood. Price: $4,295

Ithaca 4E 20 gauge with 28″ bbls

Francotte 20ga model 14E

Francotte 20gauge model 14E: Imported in the 1920s by Von Lengerke and Detmold of New York. VL&D were big competitors of Abercrombie and Fitch and imported many high quality European guns.This gun has 26″ barrels choked modified (.017″) and full (.027″). It has a semi pistol grip stock,double triggers,and ejectors.The stock dimensions are 14 3/8″ LOP x 15/8″ at comb x 2 3/4″ at heel.It weighs 6-2 and has 2 3/4″ chambers. It has full coverage scroll engraving and checkered sidepanels.The bores are clean and bright with no damage.A great upland gun.C&R eligible. Price: $3,995

Fox Sterlingworth Ejector 20 gauge Philly As New Mint Original:

If you’re a Fox fan, grab a towel: This 20 gauge Philly Sterlingworth is gonna make you drool. It looks brand new and 100% original. And if that wasn’t enough, it has ejectors and 28″ barrels, making it one of the toughest Sterlies to find.

Ironmen Arms & Antiques just had it, and I remember the price was pretty high. If you’re looking for American doubles, I would keep an eye on the Ironmen site. They handle a lot of nice American doubles, and most of them sell pretty fast.

Fox Sterlingworth Ejector 20 gauge Philly As New Mint Original: Offered is perhaps the best all original Philadelphia Fox Sterlingworth 20 gauge shotguns that you are likely to find.  It is also the rare ejector model Sterlingworth.  Serial Number 262488 was produced in early 1930 most likely during the Savage Arms buy out of the Fox Company.  It is one of the last FOX shotguns of any grade marked Philadelphia.  It remains in nearly brand new condition with NO restoration work or touch up.  It shows evidence of very limited firing and nearly 100% case color and blue remain.  Screws and bores are mint.  Original butt plate and grip cap.  It would be next to impossible to upgrade on the condition of this fine little Philadelphia 20.  The dimensions are: Barrel length 28″ choked modified and full.  2 1/2″ chambers. Length of pull from the front trigger over the original hard rubber butt plate is 14 1/8″  Drop at heel is 2 3/4″ and drop at comb is 1 5/8″.  Weight is just shy of 6 pounds.  If you collect only the best condition possible, this Fox is for you.

Fox Sterlingworth Ejector 20 gauge Philly As New Mint Original:

Fox Sterlingworth Ejector 20 gauge Philly As New Mint Original:

Fox Sterlingworth Ejector 20 gauge Philly As New Mint Original:

Fox Sterlingworth Ejector 20 gauge Philly As New Mint Original:

Fox Sterlingworth Ejector 20 gauge Philly As New Mint Original:

Fox Sterlingworth Ejector 20 gauge Philly As New Mint Original:

Fox Sterlingworth Ejector 20 gauge Philly As New Mint Original:

Fox Sterlingworth Ejector 20 gauge Philly As New Mint Original:

Fox Sterlingworth Ejector 20 gauge Philly As New Mint Original:

Fox Sterlingworth Ejector 20 gauge Philly As New Mint Original:

Fox Sterlingworth Ejector 20 gauge Philly As New Mint Original:

Fox Sterlingworth Ejector 20 gauge Philly As New Mint Original:

Fox Sterlingworth Ejector 20 gauge Philly As New Mint Original:

Fox Sterlingworth Ejector 20 gauge Philly As New Mint Original:

Fox Sterlingworth Ejector 20 gauge Philly As New Mint Original

20 gauge Boss &Co. Sidelock SxS Double Barrel Shotgun, Round Body

The late 19th century was a golden age for sporting guns in the UK. Hundred of makers had shops throughout the country, thousands of people were employed by the trade, and because shooting was THE ACTIVITY for the Royals and other well-to-dos, there were plenty of customers.

The country’s most prestigious makers were in London, close to Buckingham Palace. Makers like Purdey, Boss, Holland & Holland, and Stephen Grant had shops in the West End. They fought for patronage from high-end customers and were always on the lookout for ways to set themselves apart from the competition.

On January 1, 1891, John Robertson took control of Boss & Co. Robertson had grown up in gunmaking. He joined the London trade in 1864 at Purdeys and went out on his own in 1873. Once he was in charge of things at Boss, his first task was to update the  company’s shotguns and remake Boss as the city’s premier gunmaker.

12 gauge Back-Action Boss, a typical pre-Robertson gun. Go here to see listing for gun.

Pre-Robertson, Boss had been known for making back-action sidelocks and hammerguns with Jones-style underlevers. Robertson ditched these old designs for modern, bar-action locks and a look all his own. He came up with a new, streamlined design for Boss’s guns and created the company’s classic look – snakey, handsome, and sleek.

A few years later, Robertson pushed this streamlining  further and came up with something daring: Boss’s famous Round Body Action. The Round Body pushes sleek as far as it will go, and it looks more Space Age than Victorian Age. The lockplates and action are filed up for a round appearance. There are no beads, hips, or edges to be seen. The fences retain their bulbous “Boss” shape, but the stock gets the “round” treatment  around the locks  and through the hand. There are no drop points. The result is very unique and very modern. If George Jetson found his way back to London in 1900, he would want this shotgun.

Round-Body Bosses were never popular, and of the 10,000 or so double barrels Boss has built to date, fewer than 300 were the Round-Bodies. Most of these RBs were 12 gauges, very few were 20s. So the 20 gauge Boss Round Body you see here is a rare side by side. It was made in the early ’3os and it looks like it’s in decent shape.

20 gauge Boss &Co. Sidelock SxS Double Barrel Shotgun, Round Body

20 gauge Boss &Co. Sidelock SxS Double Barrel Shotgun, Round Body

20 gauge Boss &Co. Sidelock SxS Double Barrel Shotgun, Round Body

20 gauge Boss &Co. Sidelock SxS Double Barrel Shotgun, Round Body

20 gauge Boss &Co. Sidelock SxS Double Barrel Shotgun, Round Body

Beretta Uplander in 20 gauge 28″ barells 3 inch chamber

Here’s a great upland gun at a fair price. These Beretta/Orvis Uplanders are tough to finds with 28″ barrels.

Beretta Uplander in 20 gauge 28″ barells 3 inch chamber: Beretta Mobile chokes IC/M included. LOP over leather butt pad is 15″. Drop 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 slight cast off for right handed shooter. weight 6lb 3 oz on my digital postal scale. HARD TO FIND! The gun has oil rubbed drop dead gorgeous wood. All metal is pretty matte blue. I have hunted with it so it has some small dents in the wood none of the dents go through the finish. I tried to photograph them but they are mostly so light they don’t show up in a photgraph but they are there. The metal is perfect the blueing is not rubed through any where and the barrels are shinny no rust of any kind anywhere not dents in the barrels chambers are shinny. The action is tight and the top lever is well right of center. The top rib has a slight imperfection I have tried to photograph in the up close pictures it is small and hardly noticible when you look down the barrels. The leather butt pad is in great condition. Price: $2,300

Beretta Uplander in 20 gauge 28″ barells 3 inch chamber

Beretta Uplander in 20 gauge 28″ barells 3 inch chamber

Beretta 686 ONYX 20 GA., 28″ BBLS

Here’s another one of these great Beretta O/Us at an even better price.

This one has a pistol grip. If you would like to switch it to a straight-gripped stock, check out the wood sets at Cole Gunsmithing. You could get a new butt and forend for as little as $365.

Beretta 686 ONYX 20 GA, 28″ bbls.

Price: $ 1,449.99

1921 A.H. Fox 20 gauge XE double barrel shotgun

It’s confirmed: Fox collectors are nuts. The auction for this 20g A.H. Fox XE ended Monday, and the final price was $24,002. That’s a lot for a gun with almost no original color-case hardening and a stubby stock. At least its provenance is sound. That must be what drove the price so high.

For the same money,  the winning bidder could have bought this 20 gauge Westley Richards droplock. Much nicer gun, but it doesn’t come with as nice a story.

1921 A.H. Fox 20 gauge XE double barrel shotgun: According to J.T. Callahan, the Fox records indicate that this gun, SN 201509, a 20 gauge XE, was shipped on August 7, 1921 from Philadelphia to Abercrombie & Fitch of NYC, the original consignee. The gun was made with 26” barrels, choked IC (r) and M (l) with a LOP of 13 ½” and DOH of 2 5/8”. Weight, 5 lbs., 12 oz. — FINAL HAMMER: $24,002

Over in Scotland, Gavin Gardiner held his annual Gleneagles Sale on the same day (Monday). This pair of 12g sidelock Wilkes shotguns did extremely well – pricey, but possibly worth it.

JOHN WILKES PAIR OF KELL-ENGRAVED 12-BORE SIDELOCK EJECTOR GUNS, NOS. 13802/3

JOHN WILKES A MAGNIFICENT PAIR OF KELL-ENGRAVED 12-BORE SIDELOCK EJECTOR GUNS, NOS. 13802/3: 28-inch barrels with 2 1/2-inch chambers, about 1/4 and 3/4 choke borings, matted top ribs, the frames, locks and gold numbered top levers with best bouquet and scroll engraving and retaining virtually all of their original hardening colour, the inside of the fore-end irons with further bouquet and scroll engraving, gold washed lockwork, rolled edge trigger guards, 14 1/2-inch highly figured exhibition quality stocks, inlaid in gold with the entwined initials “W.D.”, 6lb. 9oz., nitro proof, in their maker’s presentation case with engraved fittings and canvas outer cover. ESTIMATE: £25000-35000 SALE PRICE: £53,900

The maker confirms that the guns were completed on 24th August 1935 for W. W. Dowding. The guns were engraved by Harry Kell with special flower and scroll work and the guns remain as originally built. The original cost was £220 with the case costing £13 15s and the matching outer cover a further £5 12s 6d.

W. W. Dowding

William W. Dowding, for whom these guns were made, was one of the Wilkes’ largest retail customers in the 1930s. He started to buy guns from them in 1931 and in the course of the next five years ordered a total of ten new guns as well as buying others and a wide variety of shooting requisites. The story passed down the family was that in 1933 Dowding challenged Jack Wilkes to make for him a pair of guns that were on a par with the best the London trade could offer. Guns 13802/3 were Jack’s response to that challenge. Many years later his sons viewed this pair of guns as his masterpiece.

To make them, Wilkes went to many of the best outworkers in the the London trade. George Lane and Bolter normally worked for Woodward; Mealey at the time was on Wilkes’ payroll, but had worked for Grant & Lang and several others in a very long career; and Willie Lane was shortly to join Grant & Lang’s payroll. The engraver Harry Kell is probably the only outworker now widely known.

Winchester Model 21 “Custom Grade” Side-by-Side 12-gauge

The Winchester M21: Uglier than a hairless dog and as balanced as a sledgehammer OR Marlboro-man handsome and eminently American. Whatever you think of these side-by-sides, one thing is for certain: collectors go crazy for the M21s.

Winchester’s Model 21 was first produced in 1931, and it was manufactured by them until 1993. In all, about 35,000 of them left the Winchester factory. Here’s one of them. This shotgun is on Gunauction.com now, and the listing ends onAugust 31, 2014 17:45:00 PT.

Winchester Model 21 “Custom Grade” Side-by-Side 12-gauge: It wears 28″ barrels, has 2-3/4″ chambers, and is choked Modified and Improved Cylinder (the choking is reverse of standard with the tighter constriction on the right barrel). The barrel has a raised solid matted rib with an ivory front bead and a silver metallic mid-bead. The frame features the Custom Grade style hand-cut scroll engraving and the gun has a gold plated single-selective trigger, automatic ejectors, and a non-automatic safety. The barrel and frame flats & breeching surfaces are factory engine turned and the rib panel is marked “Custom Built by Winchester”. The buttstock is of the pistol grip variety with steel grip cap and is fitted with a “Decelerator” pad (the original ventilated Winchester pad is included). The LOP measures 14-1/4″, just 1/8″ more than original. The forend is of the skeet beavertail configuration with ebony insert. The Model 21 was always a hand-built gun of the highest quality. When it comes to durability, strength, and ultimate reliability, the Model 21 stands peerless above all other American doubles.

Winchester Model 21 “Custom Grade” Side-by-Side 12-gauge

Overall condition is quite good and this beautiful double retains nearly all of the original factory blue finish. I’d grade the finish at 98-99% with just a few minor handling marks. There is no rust or any pitting and all markings are sharp and crisp. The grade AA fancy walnut stocks feature very nice figure and are in generally very good shape. There are some handling marks, a couple of dents in the butt, and also a fine/tight crack running down from the upper tang. I believe this crack would be a fairly easy repair. The gold oval nameplate on the underside of the stock was originally factory engraved with initials but has been buffed to remove them. The mechanics are in perfect working order and the bores are excellent…mirror bright with no issues. It comes with a Cody/Factory Letter which confirms the configuration of the gun and indicates that it was shipped in 1973. Also included is a vintage Winchester takedown case which I believe was original to a Winchester Model 23.

Winchester Model 21 “Custom Grade” Side-by-Side 12-gauge

Winchester Model 21 “Custom Grade” Side-by-Side 12-gauge

Winchester Model 21 “Custom Grade” Side-by-Side 12-gauge

BERETTA 686 Onyx – 20 Gauge , Color-Case Hardened Action

I know, another 686. Blah, blah, blah. But this one is different, I swear. How? It has a color-case hardened action, something I’ve never seen on a 686 from Beretta. I really like the looks of it  – even though the wood stinks. If it were mine, I would class it up a bit with a new custom wood set from Cole Gunsmithing.

BERETTA 686 Onyx – 20 Gauge : Price: $2,099.99

Holland & Holland Full Sidelock , Royal Ejector 20 Bore.

Holland & Holland Full Sidelock , Royal Ejector 20 Bore. Mfr. in 1894, and returned to Holland & Holland and fitted with new 30″ Barrels, with Semi Concave Rib, and bears the 38 New Bond Street Address. 2 3/4″ Chambers, Nitro Proofed. Chokes are Improved Cylinder and Modified ( .008/.019), with .615/.615 Bores. Double Triggers, Automatic Ejectors, with Auto Safety. Standard Holland & Holland Bold Foliate Engraving on the Receiver, that still retains 95% of its vivid case colors, with 98%+ Barrel Blue, and 98%+ Wood Finish. Beautiful Figured, Fine Checkered Straight Grip Stock, to Checkered Butt, with non engraved Gold Oval. Measurements are 1 1/2″ X 2 1/4″ X 15 1/2″ LOP. With 1/8″ cast off, with a weight of 5 pounds, 14 ounces. Cased in a leather case with outer canvas cover. AN Incredible Upland Gun by one of London’s Most Prestigious Makers. Price: $ 39,595

Purdey 20 Gauge SxS Double Barrel Shotgun

Purdey 20 Gauge SxS Double Barrel Shotgun: Offered for sale is a bespoke Purdey 20 Gauge side by side that was delivered in 1988.  We acquired it from the orignial owner. There is. of course, a fitted case with all cleaning accessories and snap caps. Specifications are:
Barrel length – 26 inches
LOP to front trigger – 15 inches
Choke
Right barrel – 1/4
Left barrel – 1/2
Drop at heel  – 1 7/8 inches
Drop at nose – 1 1/2 inches
Cast off at heel is 1/2 inch.

Price: $39,500

A H Fox, Philadelphia — AE Grade — 12 Gauge, 2 1/2″ Chambers

A H Fox, Philadelphia — AE Grade — 12 Gauge, 2 1/2″ Chambers: 28″ SxS barrels of Cromox fluid compressed steel, with concave matted rib, choked improved cylinder & modified. 14 1/8″pull from front trigger to original buttplate. 1 5/8″ – 2 3/4″ drop. No cast. Lightly figured, oil finished stock with Deeley latched splinter forend, round knob half pistol grip, classic point-pattern checkering and with checkered sidepanels. Automatic ejectors and manual top tang safety. Weight: 7lbs, 5 1/2oz. Built 1920. 99%+ proper barrel reblue. 95% original triggerguard blue. 70% original casehardening colors. Tight, mechanically excellent, with sharp engraving and with mirror-bright bores. Price: $2995.

Midland Gun Co. SXS 12 Ga:

Price: $1,999.99

Midland Gun Co. SXS 12 Ga.

Charles Ingram BLE 12 Gauge

Someone needs to buy this great looking Scottish side-by-side right away. This gun was made for Charles Ingram Gunmakers, of Waterlook St. Glasgow– a business that began in 1835 — and it looks like it has a lot of original finish. I love the scroll engraving and the reddish cast of the wood, too. This SxS has post-1925 and post-1954 proof marks on it,  so it has been reproofed. I would take a close look at the wall thicknesses and also check to see if the barrels have been reblued.

British boxlocks like this are some of the best deals in the vintage gun market, so I’m sure it will sell quickly.

Charles Ingram BLE 12 Gauge. Price: $3,799.99

Charles Ingram BLE 12 Gauge

WW GREENER BEST DOUBLE RIFLE 450-400 2 3/8″

W.W. GREENER BEST DOUBLE RIFLE 450-400 2 3/8: MADE 1888 26″ DAMASCUS BARRELS WITH EJECTORS AND PERFECT BORES DOUBLE TRIGGER PISTOL GRIP APPEARS TO BE ORIGINAL CONDITION WITH TRACES OF CASE COLORS AND MAKERS CASE 8LBS 1 OZ X 14 1/8. Price: $15,000

Connecticut Shotgun RBL Launch Edition 20 Gauge: Band new. Single trigger, straight grip, 28″ bbls, 14 3/4″ LOP. In original box with case and all accessories. Price: $3750

Connecticut Shotgun RBL Launch Edition 20 Gauge

Winchester Model 21 Shotgun – 12 Ga. – 30 in. Barrels – Circa 1947

Winchester Model 21 Shotgun – 12 Ga. – 30 in. Barrels – Circa 1947: Original condition. 2 3/4″ chambers with 30″ barrels. Right is marked mod, left is marked full. It has automatic ejectors, a single selective trigger, a pistol grip with high grade wood and a Beavertail forearm. The forearm is missing a screw on the bottom and has a very slight crack in the wood towards the rear of the forearm. Very little blueing loss and the bore is bright and shiny. The wood has light usage marks. Mechanically perfect. Shoots fine. The serial number indicates it is Circa 1947. Price: $3,299

Charles Daly Prussian/Lindner 10 GA SxS: Price: $2,999.99

Charles Daly Prussian/Lindner 10 GA SxS:

ITHACA FLUES FIELD GRADE IN 20 GAUGE

ITHACA FLUES FIELD GRADE IN 20 GAUGE – ORIGINAL CONDITION: Here is a excellent condition Ithaca Flues Field Grade in 20 gauge. Original condition thoughout. Damascus barrels are 28″ with mirror bores. Right bore measures at .609 with 21/1000 choke (full) while left is .610 with 22/1000 choke (full). Chambers are 2 3/4″.  Extractors. All serial numbers match. Ithaca hard butt plate. Gun is onface with top lever right of center. Weight of gun is 5 LBS 11 1/8 OZ. Shipping is $40. LOP – 14 1/4″ Drop at Comb – 1 5/8″ Drop at Heel – 2 3/4″. Price: $895

BOSS .410 OVER-UNDER, SIDELOCK EJECTOR, SINGLE TRIGGER GAME GUN WITH CASE

I already put up a post about these incredible Boss shotguns. Now that the auctioneer has posted a complete set of pics and a full description for each one, I wanted to mention them again. They are that stunning — and rare.

.410 Boss & Co. Side-by-Side Shotgun

.410 Boss & Co. Over-Under Shotgun

These shotguns are best-quality, London-made sidelock .410s by Boss & Co: a side-by-side and an over under. Ordered in the 1950s, they are in incredible original condition. Pre-auction estimates put their value at $135,000+ a piece. The final hammer price will probably be much higher – especially for the O/U. Last spring, a set of 28 gauge Bosses in similar condition came up at Julia’s. The final prices for those 28g guns were $138,000 for the SxS and $207,000 for the O/U.

BOSS .410 GAUGE SIDE BY SIDE, SIDELOCK EJECTOR, SINGLE TRIGGER GAME GUN WITH CASE.

Here are the full descriptions for the Boss & Co. .410s from Julia’s site:

TRULY EXCEPTIONAL, HIGH CONDITION BOSS .410 GAUGE SIDE BY SIDE, SIDELOCK EJECTOR, SINGLE TRIGGER GAME GUN WITH CASE: SN 9067. (1954) Cal. .410. 3″ Chambers. 26″ Chopper lump bbls are engraved “Boss & Co” “41 Albemarle Street Piccadilly London.” “Made in England” on tops, either side of slightly raised, flat, matted rib, fitted with two red Bradley beads. Bbl flats are stamped with London nitro proofs for 3″ chambers. SNs are on bottoms of bbls. Nicely filed, diminutive, case hardened action is fitted with front action sidelocks, also exquisitely scaled down, and in perfect proportion with action. Action features non-automatic safety (SAFE inlaid in gold), (factory records instruct “remove safety wire and attach to gun (“wire” or rod is in case)), gold band tumbler end cocking indicators, as well as Boss’s superb single trigger. Engraving is in typical Boss house style with 17 rose bouquets surrounded by small scroll. Scroll engraved, small bow, single beaded trigger guard has SN at grip. Exceptional, strikingly flame figured, nicely marbled European walnut straight grip buttstock measures 14-1/2″ over checkered wood butt, with engraved steel heel and toe plates. Stock features classic drop points, point pattern checkering with mullered borders, and an individual gold initial “P” inlet into toe line, which is beautifully swept with approx 1/4″ negative camber. Slim beavertail forend with Anson release is fitted with Boss’s highly regarded ejector system which lifts cartridges well clear of breech ends of bbls when acting as extractors. Bore diameter at muzzles: left-.401, right -.403. Minimum wall thickness: left -.042, right -.038. Drop at heel: 2-9/16″, drop at comb: 1-5/16″. Weight: 4 lbs. 15 oz. LOP: 14-1/2″. Fine quality toe under leather case with stitched leather corners. Case has leather trimmed canvas outer cover with central medallion. Interior is lined in burgundy cloth, and has small paper Boss Albemarle Street label on lid. Case contains 2-pc brass and walnut cleaning rod with mop, jag, and Turk’s head, unmarked round oil bottle, pincher type broken case extractor, small horn handled turnscrew, pair of A & F marked snap caps, and envelope containing and marked for “Safety rod for .410 gun”. Also included are two Abercrombie & Fitch hang tags with information for this gun. PROVENANCE: Copy of factory records confirming all specifications and stock shaping.

BOSS .410 GAUGE SIDE BY SIDE, SIDELOCK EJECTOR, SINGLE TRIGGER GAME GUN WITH CASE.

CONDITION: Exceptionally fine, near new, showing only exceptionally light evidence of firing and use, with only the faintest of handling marks on bbls. Damascening on breech ends is exceptionally fine. Action has only a hint of silvering on beads. Breech faces show only slight extractor wipe marks. Trigger guard retains essentially all of its orig blue. Top lever has only a hint of silvering on thumbpiece. Lock pins show essentially all of their bright polish and temper blue. Stocks retain nearly all of their orig rubbed oil finish with a few light handling marks. Bores are excellent. Action is tight. Trigger works. Ejectors are strong and in time. Case leather is very fine with a number of scuffs and marks. Handle is fine. Outer cover has some rubs and scuffs. Interior cloth shows some soiling and compressions. Label is very fine, slightly foxed. Partitions are tight, but show some re-working in action area. Accessories are excellent. This exquisite and dainty little gun is in an extraordinary state of preservation, and is also exceptionally rare. Dr. Ronald S. Gabriel in AMERICAN AND BRITISH .410 SHOTGUNS relates “In a conversation in 1982 with Boss’s ancient and retired barrel maker, Jack Rennie, he told me that the firm had made “perhaps” 13 .410s – 10 side by sides and “3 or 4″ over under .410s” An exceptional, perfectly proportioned, great handling small bore British classic in a condition worthy of the finest collection. Estimate: $100,000- $200,000

BOSS .410 OVER-UNDER, SIDELOCK EJECTOR, SINGLE TRIGGER GAME GUN WITH CASE

EXCEPTIONALLY RARE AND SUBLIME BOSS .410 OVER-UNDER, SIDELOCK EJECTOR, SINGLE TRIGGER GAME GUN WITH CASE: SN 8855. (1952) Cal. .410. 3″ Chambers. 26″ Demi-bloc barrels are engraved “Boss & Co 41 Albemarle Street. Piccadilly. London. W.” on left side of top bbl, which is mounted with flat, matted, solid rib sporting Bradley red beads. Right side is stamped with London nitro proofs for 3″ chambers. Bbl flat is stamped with matching proofs. SN is on bottom of bottom bbl. Diminutive Boss low profile O/U action is fitted with back action sidelocks and incomparable Boss single trigger. Case hardened action is nicely filed and engraved in classic Boss house style of medium scroll and 14 rose bouquets. “Boss & Co” is on the front of each lockplate, and “Patent 3307-1909″ (O/U gun) is engraved on each side of action. Single beaded trigger guard is scroll engraved and has another rose bouquet on small bow. SN is at grip. Beautifully marbled and elegantly flame figured European walnut straight grip buttstock has negative camber along toe line giving racy look. Butt is checkered and flanked by engraved steel heel and toe plates. Other features include classic drop points, point pattern checkering with mullered borders, and the initial “P” inlaid in gold on toe line. Small forend housing Boss’s unique ejector system, matches wood and checkering of butt, and has Anson type release. Bottom rear of iron is engraved “Boss’s Patent 3308-1909″ (ejector system). Bore diameter at muzzles: top -.398, bottom -.399. Minimum wall thickness: top-.032, bottom -.030. Drop at heel: 2-1/2″, drop at comb: 1-7/16″. Weight: 4 lbs. 15 oz. LOP: 14-1/2″. This lovely creation comes with its original leather case with stitched leather corners. Case is lined in scarlet cloth. Paper Boss label in lid has Dover Street address crossed out and Albemarle Street address stamped in. A second label gives instructions regarding ejectors. Case contains a pair of brass snap caps marked “Parker” “Made in England”, an H & H marked round oil bottle, and a 2-pc oak and brass cleaning rod, with mop, jag, Turk’s head, and lead remover in brown leather wallet. A horn handled small turnscrew and key are in covered compartment with brass knob. Accompanied by a copy of the original Boss ledger page for this gun order 12th May,1952 with specifications as observed.

BOSS .410 OVER-UNDER, SIDELOCK EJECTOR, SINGLE TRIGGER GAME GUN WITH CASE

CONDITION: Exceptionally fine, as found, near new, showing scant evidence of handling and firing, with only a few very light handling marks on bbls. Nearly all damascening marks are on breech ends. Action retains nearly all of its orig case hardening color with slight silvering evident on beads, and on sharpest edges. Breech faces show only a hint of firing halos. Safety button retains over 60% orig bright blue, as do hinge pin covers. Trigger guard and top lever show only the slightest of silvering. Stocks retain essentially all of their lovely rubbed oil finish, with only a few minor pings and marks. Checkering shows only a hint of wear. Bores are excellent. Action is tight. Bbls are on face. Ejectors are strong and in time. Trigger works flawlessly. Case leather is excellent with only a few very minor marks. Straps and handle are very fine. Interior cloth is excellent with only a few slight rubs. Leather action guard shows some scuffs. Labels are slightly soiled and foxed. Accessories are fine. As well as being in an extraordinary state of preservation, this exceptional wand is also extremely rare. Dr. Ronald S. Gabriel in his book AMERICAN AND BRITISH .410 SHOTGUNS relates that he has studied the Boss records, and found only five .410 O/U’s before SN 10000. He further states that the 5th found was SN 10000 commissioned by an American dealer. A unique opportunity to own one of the finest and rarest British shotguns in existence. ESTIMATE: $100,000- $200,000

BOSS .410 GAUGE SIDE BY SIDE, SIDELOCK EJECTOR, SINGLE TRIGGER GAME GUN WITH CASE.

BOSS .410 GAUGE SIDE BY SIDE, SIDELOCK EJECTOR, SINGLE TRIGGER GAME GUN WITH CASE.

BOSS .410 OVER-UNDER, SIDELOCK EJECTOR, SINGLE TRIGGER GAME GUN WITH CASE

BOSS .410 GAUGE SIDE BY SIDE, SIDELOCK EJECTOR, SINGLE TRIGGER GAME GUN WITH CASE.

.J Jeffery 12ga Ejector scolloped boxlock

Vintage British boxlocks are some of the best deals in the gun world- especially ones like this 12g Anson & Deeley-style by W.J. Jeffrey.

W.J Jeffrey 12ga Ejector scolloped boxlock: Full courage scroll engraving with banner on each side, walnut stocks with English grip and leather covered pad wood has been refinished with hand rubbed oil, blank initial plate. LOP 15″ from front trigger original flat top checkering. Barrels 28″. Ejectors. Barrels have fresh re-black. R-.003 L-.029 choke. Clean non-original case with new non-original label. Price: $2,895

.J Jeffery 12ga Ejector scolloped boxlock

.J Jeffery 12ga Ejector scolloped boxlock

SIMSON PIGEON GUN IN 12 GAUGE – HIGHLY ENGRAVED – 29 1/2″ BARRELS

SIMSON PIGEON GUN IN 12 GAUGE – HIGHLY ENGRAVED – 29 1/2″ BARRELS: Here is a Simson pigeon gun made in 1951. Elaborate scroll and game scene engraving. Oak leaf fences. Nicely stocked in an English style with tear drops at the lock plates. Double underbite with one lump protruding through the action. Concealed Greener style third fastener. Articulated front trigger. Long trigger guard tang. Anson style push rod forend fastening system. Ejectors. Manual safety. Slightly raised and tapered rib with metal front bead and white center bead. Bottom rib with threaded swivel holes. Two stock ovals – one with KHL and the other with a pigeon in flight. Outstanding condition showing light use. Nicely figured European walnut. Double boarder checkering pattern. Weight of gun is 8 LBS 4 5/8 OZ. Barrels are 29 1/2″ with bores of .729 right and .726 left and feature very typical pigeon chokes of 27/1000 (Imp Mod) and 45/1000 (Full). Shipping is $40. Stock dimensions: LOP – 14 5/8″ Drop at Comb – 1 9/16″ Drop at Heel – 2 5/8″. Price: $9,500

Merkel 201E 20 Bore Over/Under Shotgun

Merkel 201E 20 Bore Over/Under Shotgun:  Gun is in near new condition, may not have ever been in the field.
Exceptionally well executed engraving for this grade of gun.  Barrels carry a proof date: 10 88.
Hinged front trigger.  Ejectors. 26″ bbls  with 2 3/4″ Chambers, IC & Mod. Hand checkered European walnut stock. Checkered Hard Rubber butt plate  with Suhl Logo. L.O.P.14 1/4, Stock Dimensions1 3/8 x  2 3/8 x 14 1/4 x 1/4 cast off
Weight5 lbs. 15.4 oz. Price: $6950

Browning Superposed (2-Barrel Set in Browning case) 20 gauge: 26″ barrels, choked Imp Cy and Imp Cy; 28″ barrels, choked Mod and Full; this is a long-tang round-knob gun in very good condition. Price: $3,900

Browning Superposed (2-Barrel Set in Browning case) 20 gauge

Heinrich Krieghoff 32 12 Gauge shotgun

Heinrich Krieghoff 32 12 Gauge shotgun: German made over/under skeet gun with 28” barrels with Briley thin wall chokes. Has an adjustable comb stock with 14½” LOP. Excellent overall condition, seems hardly fired at all. Proof date is 1965. A classic German made over/under, ready for the field or range with extra choke tubes and wrench. Price: $2,950

Orvis Beretta Uplander O/U 12 ga. 28: This is a 12 ga. Beretta 686 Over/Under, custom built by Orvis in Vermont, and called the Orvis Uplander. The gun is stocked in Claro walnut w/ a 14 1/8″ LOP over a leather pad and 2 1/2″ Drop at heel and 1 5/8″ drop at comb. Stock design is slimmer and much more lively than a factory Beretta w/ excellent 32 LPI checkering. 28″ VR barrel w/ Beretta screw chokes and 3″ chamber. Gun has some minor handling marks on wood, metal is super and gun is tight. Exceptional wood and checkering, dull matte finish metal. Marked Orvis Special. Unusual in that it is a straight stock O/U,. It also has an adjustable trigger position – a feature that I have never seen on ordinary 680 series Beretta shotguns. Price: $2,250

Orvis Beretta Uplander O/U 12 ga. 28″

BERETTA – 686 Onyx – Ultra Light – Hard to Find 28 Inch Bbls: 12ga, 2-3/4″, 28″ Mobilchoke, LOP 14-1/2″, Drop 1-1/2″ to 2-1/4″, Slight Cast Off for Right Hand, Weight 6 lbs.! Price: $1,475

BERETTA – 686 Onyx – Ultra Light – Hard to Find 28 Inch Bbls

Sporting vendors and crowds at the event

It has been a busy month for me – work, getting ready for the hunting season, walking Lexi, keeping the wife happy with non gun/dog related activities, writing, etc. All this has left me with little time for Dogs & Doubles. I’m trying to do better, though., and I’ll do all I can to be more consistent with my posts in the month to come.

Lexi and I headed down to Orvis’s Game Fair and Country Sports Weekend last Saturday. The event was at the Sandanona Shooting Grounds in Millbrook, NY — a very nice place north of New York City. It seemed to be well attended, with a mix of hunters, gun folks, outdoorsy types, and people curious to find out what it was all about.

There were a lot of guns on display, plus dog demos, shooting, and other events. Overall, it was a fun time, and I’m already looking forward to next year. This event does a great job of welcoming new people into shooting and exposing them to fine doubles. I hope Orvis continues it for years to come.

I saw a couple interesting doubles, some new, some old. The Merkel Paragon pictured here was one of them. It was absolutely stunning – a 20g sidelock with 32″ bbls, built on a Merkel 303 actioin. I know Merkel offered these guns in the late ’20s. I think they were the highest grade offered to the American market, This is the only one I’ve seen – or anyone else I know has seen. It was an absolutely spectacular shotgun.

Nice looking 20g Fox Sterlingworth seen at Orvis’s Game Fair Weekend

CSMC RBLs at Orvis’s Game Fair Weekend

Merkel Paragon O/U @ Orvis’s Game Fair Weekend

Merkel Paragon O/U @ Orvis’s Game Fair Weekend

DEFOURNEY BEST SIDELOCK EJECTOR SXS 12 GAUGE: 27″ FULL AND FULL 2 3/4″ DOUBLE TRIGGER EJECTOR SPLINTER FOREARM ENGLISH GRIP EXCELLENT CONDITION 7LBS 3 OZ X 2 1/2″ X 1 9/16″ X 14 1/8″. Price: $8,500.

DEFOURNEY BEST SIDELOCK EJECTOR SXS 12 GAUGE

WESTLEY RICHARDS CONNAUGHT MODEL SCALLOPED BOXLOCK 12GA SHOTGUN

WESTLEY RICHARDS CONNAUGHT MODEL SCALLOPED BOXLOCK 12GA SHOTGUN: WITH GOLD NAME, CASE COLORED ACTION WITH SCROLL, 28″ BBLS, 2 3/4, IM/FULL, STANDARD GAME RIB, EJECTORS, DBL TRIGGERS, BEAUTIFUL HIGHLY FIGURED DARK WALNUT, ST/SP, LOP 14 5/8, 1 1/2, 1 3/4, 6LBS 10OZ, ORIGINAL A & F BEST LEATHER CASE WITH COVER AND ACCESSORIES, IN VERY MINTY ORIGINAL CONDITION! Price: $7,495

Beautiful Christophe of Brussels, Hammerless 450 BPE 3″: 24.75″ barrels with perfect bores. Lost of case color and very fine english rose scroll engraving. Scalloped action and a period Silvers pad. One standing and one folding rear sight. Tight on face. Bluing is problem free. Very nice wood, free of any cracks or gouges. Sharp , clean checkering too. LOP 14.75″ , DAC 2″, DAH 3″. Weight is 7.2 lbs. One very nice and classic double in amazing condition. If you have any questions let me know. Credit cards add 3%, we offer a 3 day non-firing inspection period. Must ship to an FFL and shipping will be the actual cost with Insurance as its going to be well packed in a hard case. Additional photos available. Price: $6,500

Beautiful Christophe of Brussels, Hammerless 450 BPE 3″

Beretta SO 2 12ga. Sidelock O/U Shotgun with 27 1/2″ Bbls

Beretta SO 2 12ga. Sidelock O/U Shotgun with 27 1/2″ Bbls: M/F, made in 1957 Used One Time . This gun is as new except that the previous owner had more dollars than sense . Looks like at the most a box of shells was fired , but he must have got at least one pheasant as he left a spot of blood on the lower right side barrel and it slightly pitted . It was stored all these years and never used again . We cleaned the spot up and in the right light you can see it but would have to look for it ! ( See photo ) We also replaced the rock hard White Line vented pad w/a new one . This gun is tight – just like a new one at the Beretta Store . This is maybe as close as you can get to a new 1957 hand made sidelock Beretta . Wood looks good . Great closet queen looking to get out once in a while . LOP is 14 3/4 , weight 7# . Price: $5,995

Webley & Scott 20 gauge bird gun

Webley & Scott 20 gauge bird gun: Gun has 26 inch barrels choked IC/LMod with 2 3/4 inch chambers. Barrel rib is marked “Abercrombie & Fitch Co., Agents”. The case coloring on receiver is excellent with scroll engraving. Gun has double triggers and ejectors. Splinter forend and semi-pistol grip stock with silver engraving oval and black recoil pad. Feather light at 5 lbs 6 oz. Ready for grouse or woodcock. Price: $4,250

12 gauge Webley & Scott SxS Shotgun @ Cherry’s Fine Guns

New to side-by-sides and looking for a good buy? Then check out this 12g Webley & Scott Model 700 listed at Cherry’s Fine Guns (Scroll down-it’s near the end of the list.)

This twelve gauge is more than enough gun for upland hunting. For pheasants, you can load it up with 1 1/8oz of shot. If you’re after quail or woodcock, you go down to 7/8oz. And on a sporting-clays course, Winchester’ Featherlight rounds should work just fine (if this gun’s 2 3/4″ chambers are original – something to have checked out before you guy the gun.

Webley & Scott introduced the M700 in the 1950s as an entry-level shotgun and it went of to become one of the most popular side-by-sides ever made. Built on an Anson & Deeley-style style action with Southgate ejectors, they’re workhorses that can handle lots of shooting, season after season.

If this one is as nice and original as it looks, the price is very fair.

Webley & Scott Boxlock, 12 Gauge SXS Shotgun: With 28″ Barrels, Choked Imp.Mod/Full, 2 3/4″ Chambers, Barrels Very Clean Inside, 90% Soft Blue, Case Colors 98%, Wood Is 95% Oil Finish, Checkered, Straight Stock, Nonfactory Pad, Double Triggers, Auto Ejectors, Nice Gun. PRICE: $2,500

12 gauge Webley & Scott SxS Shotgun @ Cherry’s Fine Guns

12 gauge Webley & Scott SxS Shotgun @ Cherry’s Fine Guns

12 gauge Boss & Co. SxS shotgun, late 1920s

In the world of fine shotguns, a Best-quality double is just that: The very best side-by-side or over-under a company could make (or in some cases, the best one they retailed). Best guns were top-of-the-line, and top gunmakers made their best guns in special ways. This was called the “House Style”, and it was applied to the entire gun, from the engraving pattern and the shaping to the action, metalwork, and stock.

The side-by-sides you see here are Best-guns by Boss & Co. and James Woodward & Sons. The Boss is 12g made the later 1920s. The Woodward is a 16g. I think it’s from the 1930s. Even though these doubles have a lot in common, they are very different guns. Look closely and you’ll see what sets them apart.

16g SXS, James Woodward & Sons

12 gauge Boss & Co. SxS shotgun, late 1920s

16g SXS, James Woodward & Sons

12 gauge Boss & Co. SxS shotgun, late 1920s

16g SXS, James Woodward & Sons

12 gauge Boss & Co. SxS shotgun, late 1920s

16g SXS, James Woodward & Sons

Top: 12g Boss & Co, Bottom: 16g J. Woodward & Sons

Top: 12g Boss & Co, Middle: 16g J. Woodward & Sons, Bottom: 20g Boss & Co.

Five Star Auctions in Arapahoe, NE, is having their COWBOY WESTERN, ANTIQUES & FIREARMS AUCTION this Saturday, October 04, 2014 @ 10:00 AM Central time. Here are a couple nice looking Citoris coming up in the sale. Either one would be nice grouse & woodcock gun.

Browning Citori Upland Special O/U 20 Ga. Shotgun NIB

Browning Citori Upland Special Over/Under 20 Ga. Shotgun NIB 2 3/4″ Chamber 24″ Barrels Invector

• Invector Chokes
• Grade 1
• SN# 22190

Browning Citori White Lightning 28 Ga. O/U Shotgun NIB

Browning Citori White Lightning 28 Ga. Over/Under Shotgun NIB 28″ Barrels 2 3/4″ Chamber Full & Modified

• Full & Modified Invector Chokes
• SN# 28390MM131