James MacNaughton Skeleton Round Triggerplate “The Edinburgh”, circa 1907

James MacNaughton Skeleton Round Triggerplate “The Edinburgh”, circa 1907: A very scarce skeleton (bar-in-wood) triggerplate round action from this famed Scottish maker having only approximately 100 ever being made, 12 bore, 2 1/2″ chambers, replacement 28″ fluid steel nitro proved at 3 Tons barrels by the makers in 1972 and choked .006 Skt. and .009 IC, smooth concave game rib engraved “James MacNaughton & Sons, Hanover Street, Edinburgh”, 14 3/4″ LOP over a leather pad, 1 1/2″ DAC, 2 1/4″ DAH, 3/16″ cast off, 6 lbs. 12 oz., ejectors, double triggers, straight grip, splinter forend, automatic MacNaughton “lever” safety, later barrel cocking design with normal top lever length, typical top tang inspection plate and inspection plate screw with cutout, fine typical MacNaughton skeleton grape vine engraving pattern with “MacNaughton & Sons” engraved on both sides of action, triggerplate engraved to match action, originally no. 1 of a pair with “1” in gold inlay on top lever and barrel rib, highly figured European walnut stock, A&D push button forend release, stock gold oval engraved with a rather mystical animal head. Excellent condition gun that is tight and sound and without any cracks, a few spots of thin barrel blue, exceptional bores and walls on the newer barrels and ready for it’s next 100+ years of service.  These are very rare guns with MacNaughton making the most at about 100 and Dickson having made only about 12-15 skeleton round actions. Price: $24,950

Winchester Model 21 Skeet Grade Field gun in 16 gauge: With 28″ matted rib barrels and choked M&IM ( Chokes measure .012 & .020 ) Beautiful pistol grip stock with 14 1/4″ LOP over checkered butt . Hard grip cap. Beavertail forend . Single selective trigger, Auto ejectors. An outstanding model 21. Price: $7,995

Winchester Model 21 Skeet Grade Field gun in 16 gauge

W & C. Scott and Son 12g Premier grade double – barreled SxS shotgun

W & C. Scott and Son 12g Premier grade double – barreled SxS shotgun: With patented crystal indicator windows. 12 gauge with two sets of original Damascus barrels remaining in near fine original condition . The first set of barrels measure 30” in length with 2 ½” chambers choked .20 for modified left and 0 for cylinder right. The second set measure 30” and are choked modified and modified and show almost no use with 95% to 98% bright original tobacco brown finish and serial numbered to match with near fine bores. The stock measures 14 ½” to the end of a English type pad and nearly 14 inches to the end of the wood. There is a 3 ¼ inch drop at the heel with a 2 inch drop at the comb. The wall thickness measures .26 left barrel and .33 right barrel. The barrels retain 90% to 95% of their original light brown finish with some minor scratches and just beginning slight aging. Approximately 95% of the Damascus pattern shows well and there is some very vivid tobacco colored brown finish remaining. The frame shows 85% to 90% case hardening that is just drifting and toning slightly. The action is profusely engraved with bank note scrolls and profuse game bird scenes. The gun locks tight and the bores are still bright. Price: $5,900.

ITHACA NID, GRADE FOUR 12 GAUGE, HEAVY FRAME 3″ MAGNUM, 26 ” BARRELS

ITHACA NID, GRADE FOUR 12 GAUGE, HEAVY FRAME 3″ MAGNUM, 26 ” BARRELS: EXCELLENT BLUE, MIRROR BORES, TWIN IVORY SIGHTS, BRILEY STEEL SHOT CHOKE TUBES, FORCING CONES LENGTHENED. AUTOMATIC EJECTORS, SINGLE SELECTIVE TRIGGER, TYPICAL ENGRAVING PATTERN, PHEASANT ON RIGHT, MALLARD ON LEFT, PLUS SCROLLWORK AND FINE BORDERS. STRAIGHT GRIP STOCK, BEAVERTAIL FOREARM, FINE FLEUR DI LIS CHECKERING, GORGEOUS HIGHLY FIGURED WOOD, GOLD INLAY IN BUTTSTOCK. GREAT DIMENSIONS 1 1/2″ X 2″ X 13 3/4″, ORIGINAL ITHACA SUNBURST PAD. ITHACA PRODUCED A TOTAL OF 87 12 GAUGE HEAVY MAGNUMS, ONLY 14 GRADE FOURS WERE MADE. ALL ARE SERIAL NUMBERED OVER 500,000. 8 POUNDS 6 OUNCES. THE PERFECT WATERFOWL DOUBLE SHOTGUN. AN EXTREMELY RARE GUN. Price: $4,850

Charles Hellis & Sons Ltd. 121 & 123 Edgeware Road. Hyde Park. London W. 2″ game gun built in 1939

Charles Hellis & Sons Ltd. 121 & 123 Edgeware Road. Hyde Park. London W. 2″ game gun built in 1939:  26″ Cyl/IC extractor barrels with makers name and adress and “FOR 2 INCH CASE ONLY” inlayed in platinum on the rib. Gun is totally in proof with original 2″ chambers. Bores measure .732 right and left. Choked .002 on the right and .008 on the left. Minimum wall thickness is .026  Reciever retains 60% original case colors with border engraving only. Barrels retain 96% blue with 60% blue on bottom of reciever and trigger guard. Stock and forend completely solid with some fairly nice figure in the buttstock. 14 1/2″ LOP to checkered butt. DAC 1 1/2″  DAH-2 3/8″   Checkering has been recut and a light refinish on buttstock and forend. This gun remains in excellent mechanical condition. It is tight and on face. Barrels ring like a chime. Weighs in at 5lb 9oz  These 2″ game guns are few and far between with many not in proof or in poor condition. This is a real gem for the avid woodcock or quail hunter. Price: $4695

“A.H. Fox Unknown Model” that looks like an A grade

Here’s a listing that has me scratching my head. The seller claims it’s an “A.H. Fox Unknown Model”. To me, it sure looks like an all-original A.H. Fox A-grade with the late style of engraving. According to the serial number, it was made around 1924 — several years after A.H. Fox made the transition over to this engraving pattern.

Here’s the info the seller posted about the gun:

A.H. Fox Unknown Model Engraved 12GA Side by Side Shotgun: Side by Side Shotgun Caliber/Gauge: 12GA Barrel Length: 28″ Choke: Fixed Chokes (Extra Full and Improved Modified) Stock/Grips: Walnut Stock. Engraving is not factory (????). Light blue wear. Walnut stock shows wear to finish, scratches and scuffs. 85-90. Price: $799

“A.H. Fox Unknown Model” that looks like an A grade

“A.H. Fox Unknown Model” that looks like an A grade

Pre-war Purdey Extra Lightweight 12 ga

Pre-war Purdey Extra Lightweight 12 ga: An extraordinary pre-war Purdey 12 ga. weighing just 5 lbs, 15 oz.  26″ Sir Joseph Whitworth steel barrels feature a semi-swamped, hand-stippled rib, and retain 99% original barrel blue.  Choked improved cylinder and full, original 2-5/8″ chambers, spectacular original condition throughout.  The action retains 99.9% of its factory brilliant color case hardening over the traditional Purdey rose and scroll engraving pattern.  Straight hand stock of highly figured French walnut measures 1-3/8″ comb, 2-1/4″ heel and a 14-3/4″ length of pull to the checkered butt as indicated in the factory records.  Illustrated in the photos, you will see the original high-polish luster blue on the trigger guard.  Built in 1930, delivered to Abercrombie & Fitch, this may be the ultimate walk-up gun.  This racy, small frame 12 exhibits the balance and feel one would expect from London’s premier gunmaker.  Can’t say enough about this one!  Cased. Price: $42,500

WESTLEY RICHARDS OVUNDO O/U 20 GA

WESTLEY RICHARDS OVUNDO O/U 20 GA: Serial #17536. Barrel Length: 28″. Chokes: C (.007″) & M (.011″).
Trigger SST (Single Selective). Stock Straight Grip, Foream Field style with horn tip. Rib: Solid Weight: 5#8oz Dimensions: 1 1/2 x 2 x 14 with 3/8 cast off, 2 1/2″ chambers. Other Options Gold oval, Heel & Toe plates, Cased in maker’s leather case with label. Price: $32,500

ATKIN 12 SIDELOCK PAIR- NEW CHOPPER LUMP Bbls. in 1988 by the MAKER- NEW BUTTSTOCKS by the MAKER- ALL LONDON

ATKIN 12 SIDELOCK PAIR- NEW CHOPPER LUMP Bbls. in 1988 by the MAKER- NEW BUTTSTOCKS by the MAKER- ALL LONDON: #912 & 913, Henry Atkin (From Purdey’s) 6 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, London, A Very Nice Pair of Bar Action Sidelock Ejector 12 Bore Game Guns, Both guns with modern and new 28″ Chopper Lump barrels installed and proved in London in 1988 when they operated as Atkin Grant & Lang & Co Ltd at 6 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, London (The address on these barrels), Both barrels remain as new since 1988: The #1 gun London proved at 3 1/4 tons with 2 3/4″ chambers, #1 is .730 .008 & .020″ (Imp.Cyl. & Mod.), 2 3/4″ chambers: The #2 gun London proved at 3 1/4 tons with 2 3/4″ chambers, #2 is .730 .008 & .016″ (Imp.Cyl. & Mod.), 2 3/4″ chambers, Wall thickness all the way around at .032″, Both with new buttstocks with excellent internal inletting (I presume done in 1988 when the new barrels were added), Very nice wood with excellent color and contrast, The pair with Ejectors, Double triggers, Splinter forend with an Anson release, Straight hand stock and both 14 3/4 x 1 9/16 x 2 1/8″ over checkered butts, Both guns 6 lbs. 11 oz., Stanton & Son locks, 94% coverage of period scroll engraving, The action body’s still retain 15-20% original case colors, The barrel blue at 97% on both, The buttstocks and forends remain at 94%, The checkering at 98%, Number 1 & 2 in Gold in 3 places, The engraving is very sharp & crisp and has never been brushed, All 4 barrels are almost as new inside & out, The pair is cased in what appears to be the original brass cornered trunk & now with the trade label from AG &L when the new barrels and new buttstocks were installed in 1988. Here is a very nice pair of guns with new modern Chopper Lump barrels & wood that will go a lifetime. These are a super pair of guns that are in much better condition than many of the vintage pairs offered on the market today. Price: $24,000

ITHACA 5E 12 GAUGE SIDE BY SIDE SHOTGUN

ITHACA 5E 12 GAUGE SIDE BY SIDE SHOTGUN: 28″ BARRELS CHOKED MODIFIED AND FULL (.017& .035), 2 3/4″ CHAMBERS, DOUBLE TRIGGERS, EJECTORS, SPLINTER FOREND, STRAIGHT GRIPS STOCK 14″ LOP DROP 1 1/2″-2 3/4″, AUTOMATIC SAFETY, VERY HIGH ORIGINAL CONDITION, SERIAL NUMBER 433707 Price: $5999

20ga RBL Launch Connecticut Shotgun MFG: Lightly used 20ga RBL. 99% Very few imperfections. Gorgeous wood. Great configuration. Previous owner did not like the bright yellow case so he “aged it” to tone it down. A very atractive gun at a very atractive price!!!

20ga RBL Launch Connecticut Shotgun MFG

20 GAUGE BERETTA ORVIS UPLANDER

Here’s a great O/U at a very fair price. These Beretta/Orvis Uplanders are great handling guns with excellent single triggers.

20 GAUGE BERETTA ORVIS UPLANDER: GUN IS IN GREAT SHAPE. ALL ORIGINAL. LOP 15″ TO END OF ORVIS LEATHER PAD. 28″ PIPES. GUN WEIGHS 6# 2 OZ. REMOVABLE CHOKES. COMES WITH IC/MOD. ACTION IS STILL TIGHT BARELLS ARE BRIGHT AND SHINY NO RUST ANYWHERE. I HAVE USED THE GUN SO IT HAS SOME SMALL SCRATCHES IN THE WOOD AND METAL I TRIED TO PHOTGRAPH ALL OF THE DEFECTS BUT THEY DONT SHOW UP. OVER ALL THE GUN IS IN VERY GOOD SHAPE. FAST HANDLING ENGLISH STOCK WITH AMAZING WOOD. NOT THE FAKE PAINTED ON CRAP LIKE YOU SEE TODAY. IF YOU BUY THIS GUN NEW FROM ORVIS THEY ASK $3K+ I AM. Price: $1950 – 0B0.

20 GAUGE BERETTA ORVIS UPLANDER

SPECTACULAR W & C SCOTT & SON PREMIER QUALITY TOP LEVER HAMMER GUN WITH ORIGINAL CASE AND ACCESSORIES

Here’s one for my Gallery of Great Guns. This is a 10 gauge W & C Scott Premier-grade hammergun, made around 1878. James D. Julia Auctions had this gun in their Fall, 2008 sale. It sold for $13,800.As you can see, this Scott in spectacular original condition, with fantastic color case hardening and beautiful barrel browning. On top of its condition, it’s also in its original case – something that’s very hard to find on any gun that 100+ years old.

Back when this side-by-side was made, The Premier Quality was W & C Scott’s finest shotgun. It was also cutting edge, and it came with almost all of the company’s newest innovations: their patent toplever/action spindle, their patent takedown lever on the forend, their patent adjustable front lump on the barrels, and rebounding hammers. Centerfires were still new back in the 1870s, so whoever ordered this gun

SPECTACULAR W & C SCOTT & SON PREMIER QUALITY TOP LEVER HAMMER GUN WITH ORIGINAL CASE AND ACCESSORIES

SPECTACULAR W & C SCOTT & SON PREMIER QUALITY TOP LEVER HAMMER GUN WITH ORIGINAL CASE AND ACCESSORIES: SN 10666. Cal. 10ga. 2-7/8″ Chambers. Dbl trigger. 32″ Dove-tailed Damascus bbls are marked “Scott’s Patent Triplex. W & C Scott & Son. (THE PREMIER QUALITY) 10. GT. Castle Street. Regent. Circus. London” and have a triangle of scroll engraving on the extension of the smooth concave rib. Bbl flats have provisional and definitive black powder Birmingham proofs and are marked “10 B” “11 M” and “Not for Ball” and the left flat is marked “The Premier Gun.” Bottoms of the bbl are stamped w/ SN “10666″(1878). The front lump is fitted w/ Scott’s patented action tightening screw and is marked “USA Nov. 1-1870 Patent” The water table is marked “W.CS. S Patent Oct 65″ “2752″ in a rectangle, as well as, “W & C Scott & Son Makers”,”Patent Action” ,”The Premier Gun”, Scott castle logo, SN, and proofs. The action and lock plates have 85% coverage of beautifully executed scroll engraving. The serpentine hammers are nicely filed and scrolled engraved as well. Top lever is marked “W & C Scott & Son Patent”. Trigger guard has scroll, and is engraved “No.10666″. The well figured and streaked Circassian walnut full pistol grip buttstock measures 14-1/4″ over a checkered horn butt plate and features drop points, horn grip cap, and a gold shield behind the top tang, as well as, 20 LPI borderless checkering. The splinter forend is fitted w/ Scott’s patent take down lever and is checkered to match the buttstock. Bore diameter: left -.777, right -.777. Bore restrictions: left -.027, right -.026. Wall thickness: left -.029, right -.033. Drop at heel:2-7/8″, drop at comb:1-7/8″ . Weight:10 lbs 9oz. The original leather case has a green cloth interior, and original W & C Scott label marked w/ number “10666.” Case contains a leather wallet w/ 2 top lever springs, a 3-pc ebony cleaning rod w/ German silver furrels, cleaning brushes, and reloading tools to include rosewood capper and decapper by BGI, wad rammer by BGI, and roll crimping tool by James Dixon, and stuck case remover by J.L.Rawbone. There’s also a glass oil bottle w/ pewter top and a reproduction W & C Scott paper label. PROVENANCE: Notes from consignor detailing history of the gun.

SPECTACULAR W & C SCOTT & SON PREMIER QUALITY TOP LEVER HAMMER GUN WITH ORIGINAL CASE AND ACCESSORIES

CONDITION: Extremely fine. BBls retain 97-98% orig Damascus finish w/ a few rub marks at muzzle, and breech, finish thinning in an area 9″ from the breech from handling. Bores are bright and shiny w/ minor pitting just in front of chamber in the right barrel. Action retains 95% orig brilliant case color, silvered on the action beads, and thinning on the outer area of the fences. Lock plates and hammers retain 98%+ of their brilliant case color. Trigger guard retains 40% orig case color mostly faded to silver. Top lever retains 97% orig blue. Screw slots are excellent. Top lever screws show use. Wood retains 98% of orig oil finish w/ very few minor handling marks. Without doubt as fine an example of a gun from this era that you will find. Consignor states that this gun took a gold medal in the “Concours d’Elegance” in Millbrook, NY in 2003. Case: Leather is dry, cracked and rubbed, w/ pieces missing on the front and rear edge. Interior partitions are good and tight. Accessories are excellent. 4-35486 MGM17 (11,000-15,000)

Pre-war Boss SxS Shotgun 20 ga., 26-1/2″ Barrels

Pre-war Boss SxS Shotgun 20 ga., 26-1/2″ Barrels: Choked improved cylinder and modified (.007/.010).  Original 2-3/4 1oz. heavy proof. Raised concave game rib marked “Boss & Co. 41 Albermarle Street Picadilly London W”.  Built with the style and grace that these “golden era” Boss guns are famous for.  The petite “easy opening” action gun weighs a mere 5lbs, 5 oz.  Fitted with the Boss patent single trigger.  Well-figured stock measures 1-3/8″ comb, 1-7/8″ heel, 14-1/4″ LOP to a checkered butt.  Balanced directly on the pin, this estate-fresh example retains 97% original blue, 80% vibrant case colors over the jewel-like engraving by the renowned Jack Sumner.  Built in 1930 to the true small bore specs, a unique opportunity to purchase a seldom-seen heavy proof vintage 20.  Cased in original violin case. Price: $59,500

SAUER & SOHN, SUHL DOUBLE BARREL RIFLE: SAUER & SOHN, SUHL DOUBLE BARREL RIFLE, CALIBER 43 MAUSER. CONDITION MINT ALL FACTORY PRE WAR ORIGINAL WOOD AND METAL FINISH.  BARRELS MARKED KRUPP-ESSEN GUSS-STAHL.  WE ALSO HAVE FACTORY AMMO, DIE SET AND EMPTY BRASS ALONG WITH PROPER DIA BULLETS ALL INCLUDED IN PRICE. Price: $14,995

SAUER & SOHN, SUHL DOUBLE BARREL RIFLE

PAIR PARKER REPRODUCTION 28GA/28″ BARRELS CONSECUTIVE SERIAL NUMBERS: MATCHING PAIR, CONSECUTIVE SERIAL NUMBERED WINCHESTER PARKER REPRODUCTION 28GA, 28″ BARRELS, DOUBLE TRIGGERS, PISTOL GRIP, SPLINTER FOREARM.  BOTH CHOKED Q1, & Q2.  COMES WITH ORIGINAL BOXES, DUST COVERS, AND CASE.  Price: $9850

PAIR PARKER REPRODUCTION 28GA/28″ BARRELS CONSECUTIVE SERIAL NUMBERS

FRANCOTTE KNOCKABOUT ABERCROMBIE & FITCH SXS 28 GAUGE

FRANCOTTE KNOCKABOUT ABERCROMBIE & FITCH SXS 28 GAUGE: 26″ MOD AND FULL 2 3/4 DOUBLE TRIGGER EJECTORS BEAVER TAIL FOREARM PISTOL GRIP MAKERS CASE MINTY ORIGINAL CONDITION 5LBS 8 OZ X 2″ X 1 3/8″ X 14 3/4″. Price: $8,500

VOGEL HAMMER SHOTGUN – MADE IN GERMANY – NITRO PROOF 30 3/8″ STEEL BARRELS – 16 GAUGE: Here is nice condition 16 gauge German hammer shotgun made by Vogel. This gun features 30 3/8″ nitro proofed steel barrels. Barrels are in proof. Right barrel original proof at 16 measures .668 with 18/1000 choke (Mod) while Left barrel original proof at 16/1 measures .676 with 36/1000 choke (Full). Mirror bores. No swivels or cheek piece. Prince of Wales of grip. Steel butt plate. Stock oval. Pre-war quality. Rebounding hammers. Chambers are 3″. Weight of gun is 5 LBS 14 OZ. Price: $1,150

VOGEL HAMMER SHOTGUN – MADE IN GERMANY – NITRO PROOF 30 3/8″ STEEL BARRELS – 16 GAUGE

original John Dickson & Son Gun Oil Bottle With Dipper

This Dickson Round Action is one of the shotgun world’s iconic designs. Patented in 1880, it has attracted fans for 130+ years. If you’re one of them, here’s an accessory your Dickson needs to have:

An original John Dickson & Son Gun Oil Bottle With Dipper

It’s on Ebay.co.uk now, and the listing ends on 11 Dec, 2014 22:52:11 GMT.

original John Dickson & Son Gun Oil Bottle With Dipper

original John Dickson & Son Gun Oil Bottle With Dipper

JAMES WOODWARD & SONS Best Quality SLE O/U O/U 16 GA

I used to work at one of the finest gunshops in the world – New England Arms of Kittery Point, ME. While I was there,  I came across a lot of nice doubles – Purdeys, Holland & Hollands, Fabbris, Flli Rizzinis, etc.

Of all them, two stuck in my head as being far above all the others. One was a 16g Boss O/U we sold to a client in Austin, TX. It was the Boss over-under I ever handled and one of the most beautiful shotgun I had ever encountered. That gun is one reason I’ve been obsessed with Boss shotguns ever since.

The other shotgun I remember from back then is this 16g Woodward O/U. This double came to auction in May of 1999, and I bid on it on behalf of the shop. We didn’t get it, and I’ve thought a lot about it ever since. I still have the original auction catalog, and I’ve kept an eye out for shotgun, sure that it would pop up on the market again sooner or later. Fifteen years later, here it is.

James Woodward & Sons patented their over-under in 1913 – four years after Boss & Co invented the low-profile O/U. Woodward made around three hundred over-unders in all and just a handful were 16s.

JAMES WOODWARD & SONS Best Quality SLE O/U O/U 16 GA

Auction catalog listing for 16g Woodward O/U #6680

Serial # 6680
Barrel Length 28″
Choke M
Choke 2 IM
Trigger DT (Double)
Stock Straight Grip
Foream
Rib Solid rib
Receiver Finish Casehardened Receiver
Engraving Type Fine Scroll & Rosette Engraving
Other Options original maker’s leather case with accessories, Leather covered pad, Lots of provenance
Condition EXC. Plus Condition
Weight Description 6#7oz
Description 1 1/2 x 2 1/2 x 14 3/4 with 1/8 cast off
Other Details Mfg 1923, A super rare, super nice gun

Price: $85,000

JAMES WOODWARD & SONS Best Quality SLE O/U O/U 16 GA

20g Bereta GR-2 SxS, 28″ bbls

Here’s a great side-by-side at a fair price. I think Beretta’s GR-3s were made in the 1960-1970s and hand engraved.  I have one of these in 12g and the vent rib is very low profile. You can barely see it.

20g Bereta GR-3 SxS, 28″ bbls

20g Bereta GR-2 SxS, 28″ bbls

Redding Auction Service has this nice looking 12 gauge Francotte shotgun coming up in its 12/14 Firearms Auction. From what I can see, it looks like it’s in fantastic original condition (although the pad is a later addition). These old Francottes are great doubles, and whoever ends up with this SxS is going to get a lot of quality – and they probably won’t pay a lot of money for it. All images copyright Redding Auction Service.

12g Francotte SxS Shotgun in Redding Auction Service’s 12/14/14 sale

12g Francotte SxS Shotgun in Redding Auction Service’s 12/14/14 sale

12g Francotte SxS Shotgun in Redding Auction Service’s 12/14/14 sale

12g Francotte SxS Shotgun in Redding Auction Service’s 12/14/14 sale

ZANOTTI – MODEL 625 BOXLOCK GAME GUN: 28 gauge, 27″ barrels:

Here’s an impressive little double. This 28 gauge Zanotti is on Gunbroker.com now and the listing ends Monday, 12/14/2014, @ 8:30:00 PM ET.

I think Zanotti is owned by Stefano and Fabio Zanotti. According to this website, the Zanottis have been making complete shotguns since 1625 – longer than Beretta – and the company has been in family hands the entire time. They’ve built guns for lots of famous clients, including an O/U for Fidel Castro and this pair of sidelock 12 gauges for FDR, JR.

ZANOTTI – MODEL 625 BOXLOCK GAME GUN: 28 gauge, 27″ barrels: ALL ORIGINAL ITALIAN SHOTGUN – MASTERFULLY CRAFTED – PRIVATE COLLECTION RELEASE – ZANOTTI – MODEL 625 – BOXLOCK – GAME GUN – SMOKEY MARBLED SELECT EUROPEAN WALNUT STRAIGHT GRIP BUTTSTOCK – MASTERFULLY ENGRAVED – CASE HARDENED – SIDE X SIDE – 27″ CHOPPER LUMP BARREL – CHOKED IC & MOD – 28 GAUGE – 2 ¾” CHAMBERS – 14.5” LENGTH OF PULL – NONE FINER

ZANOTTI – MODEL 625 BOXLOCK GAME GUN: 28 gauge, 27″ barrels:

ZANOTTI – MODEL 625 BOXLOCK GAME GUN: 28 gauge, 27″ barrels:

• MAKE: ZANOTTI
• MODEL: 625 BOXLOCK GAME GUN
• CALIBER: 28 GAUGE
• CHOKE: IC & MOD
• TYPE: SIDE X SIDE
• FINISH: FACTORY ORIGINAL
• BARREL LENGTH: 27″ CHOPPER LUMP – NARROW MATTE RIB
• CAPACITY: SIDE X SIDE
• LENGTH OF PULL: 14.5″
• RELEASE: ANSON
• CONDITION: AS NEW – FACTORY COMPLETE – AL ORIGINAL
• STOCK: HIGHLY SELECT SMOKEY MARBLED EUROPEAN WALNUT
• FEATURES: MASTERFUL FIELD ENGRAVING THROUGHOUT
• FRONT SIGHTS: SINGLE GOLD BEAD
• SYSTEM: SIDE X SIDE

  ZANOTTI – MODEL 625 BOXLOCK GAME GUN: 28 gauge, 27″ barrels:

• WEIGHT: 5LBS 02OZ
• SERIAL NUMBER: 3938
• MANUFACTURED: GARDONE. VT. ITALY

Fox Waterfowl Grade (HE) Sterlingworth Near Mint

The Super-Fox is one of America’s legendary shotguns. Famous outdoor writer and sportsman Nash Buckingham raved about it’s ability on high birds. He loved the loved the gun so much that he named it “Bo Whoop” because of the unique sound it made when fired.

The A.H. Fox company offered the Super-Fox from 1923 to 1940. In one of their catalogs, the company wrote: “The long distance shooting Gun built especially for close patterns at extra range…gives patterns never before attained at forty, fifty and sixty yards and above….”

In his book A.H. Fox: The Finest Gun in the World, Michael McIntosh wrote “…The Super-Fox was the product of several minds, all focused on the remarkably complex problem involved in getting a shotgun to reliably deliver a high percentage of its shot to roughly the same place at any distance beyond forty yards. It was also the product of technologies unknown before and of splendid talents brought together at precisely the right time.”

Fox Waterfowl Grade (HE) Sterlingworth Near Mint

A.H. Fox brought in Burt Becker to build the first of these doubles. Becker was a well-known gunsmith with a gift for boring barrels. In describing Becker’s contributions to the Super Fox, McIntosh wrote:

“Becker clearly understood the advantage of keeping a gunbarrel free from abrupt changes in diameter, and his solution involves a three-fold approach. First, Super-Fox chambers are bored to extremely close tolerances, and most will not accept a cartridge that is even slightly oversized. There also is a bit more taper in the Super-Fox chambers than in the average gun’s. Becker’s forcing cones are 3/4-inch long and obliquely angled, so that shot columns are eased rather than squeezed into the bores. Finally, to reduce the difference between chamber and bore diameters even further, Becker overbored the barrels. A 12-gauge Super-Fox has nearly 11-gauge bores.”

The A.H. Fox Sterlingworth Wildfowl was made up from leftover HE-grade Super-Fox actions and barrels. It was offered from 1934 to around 1940. I don’t think many of them were made, and if this one is as good as it looks, it may be the best one out there.

Fox Waterfowl Grade (HE) Sterlingworth Near Mint

NOTE: In his original listing, the seller calls this gun a “Fox Waterfowl Grade (XE) Sterlingworth” and says it “…is basically a Super Fox XE.” This is incorrect. I believe he meant to say “HE” instead of “XE”. I made the correction below.

Fox Waterfowl Grade (HE) Sterlingworth Near Mint: Amazing, near mint, late production Fox Sterlingworth side by side in little known Wildfowl Grade. A rare grade and gun is all original in near mint condition. The case coloring is some of the best I have seen on a Fox shotgun. Beautiful dark walnut in forend and stock, which has original, period correct, Jostam Mfg. red rubber pad. Original blue on 30 inch Full/Full choked barrels with ejectors. Action snaps shut tight like a vault door. Length of pull is 14 inches with 2 3/4 inch drop at heel. Take down those high flyers like Bo-Whoop’s cousin should!!  Price: $7,000

Fox Waterfowl Grade (HE) Sterlingworth Near Mint

FREDERICK BEESLEY SHOTOVER 12 GAUGE OVER UNDER

What do you get when one of England’s most inventive gunsmiths takes on the O/U? The gun shown here – a Frederick Beesley “Shotover”.

In 1880, Frederick Beesley created the Beesley-Purdey Self Opener, one of England’s most successful shotgun actions- the Beesley-Purdey Self Opener. He invented the Shotover in 1913, four years after Boss & Co. created came out with their revolutionary over under. While the Shotover shares some similarities with Boss’s design, it’s really a much different gun. To learn about what makes it so special, check out this article by Morris L. Hallowell IV. I have a feeling the gun you see here is the same 12g featured in that piece.

FREDERICK BEESLEY SHOTOVER 12 GAUGE OVER UNDER: EXTREMELY RARE BRITISH OVER UNDER 30″ BARRELS 011 AND 020 2 3/4 SINGLE TRIGGER EJECTORS FIELD FOREARM PISTOL GRIP MAKERS CASE EXCELLENT ORIGINAL CONDITION WITH REBLACKED BARRELS AND VIVID ORIGINAL CASE COLORS 6LBS 14 OZ X 2 X 1 1/4 X 14 1/2. Price: $35,000.

FREDERICK BEESLEY SHOTOVER 12 GAUGE OVER UNDER

FREDERICK BEESLEY SHOTOVER 12 GAUGE OVER UNDER

FREDERICK BEESLEY SHOTOVER 12 GAUGE OVER UNDER

FREDERICK BEESLEY SHOTOVER 12 GAUGE OVER UNDER

FREDERICK BEESLEY SHOTOVER 12 GAUGE OVER UNDER

FREDERICK BEESLEY SHOTOVER 12 GAUGE OVER UNDER

FREDERICK BEESLEY SHOTOVER 12 GAUGE OVER UNDER

FREDERICK BEESLEY SHOTOVER 12 GAUGE OVER UNDER

FREDERICK BEESLEY SHOTOVER 12 GAUGE OVER UNDER

FREDERICK BEESLEY SHOTOVER 12 GAUGE OVER UNDER

FREDERICK BEESLEY SHOTOVER 12 GAUGE OVER UNDER

FREDERICK BEESLEY SHOTOVER 12 GAUGE OVER UNDER

FREDERICK BEESLEY SHOTOVER 12 GAUGE OVER UNDER

Lindner Made Charles Daly SxS Shotgun, Diamond Quality SN307, 1800s Antique 12 Gauge

I’ve written a lot about Charles Daly shotguns — and for good reason. Up until the mid-1930s, Daly shotguns were some of the finest doubles sold in the US.

Charles Daly was a businessman, not a gunmaker. Around 1875 he partnered with August Shoverling to import shotguns into the United States. These side-by-sides were marketed under the Charles Daly name, and early on they were built by serveral different makers.

By the time this gun was built, Daly had established a relationship with a German gunmaker named Harold Lindner. The Lindner-Daly relationship lasted from the end of the 19th century until around WW1, and produced some of the finest boxlock shotguns ever made.

This Daly is Gunauction.com now at No Reserve and the listing ends December 21, 2014, @ 17:27:00 PT.

BTW: You can see more nice Charles Dalys that I’ve written about here and here.

Lindner Made Charles Daly SxS Shotgun, Diamond Quality SN307, 1800s Antique 12 Gauge

Lindner Made Charles Daly SxS Shotgun, Diamond Quality SN307, 1800s Antique 12 Gauge

Model: Side by Side

Serial Number: 307

Year of Manufacture: Pre-1890 (Crown over Crossed Pistols Proof)

Gauge: 12 Gauge

Action Type: Side by Side (SxS) with Dual Triggers and Automatic Ejectors

Markings: The lock plates are marked “CHARLES DALY THURINGIA”. The underside of the receiver is engraved with a pointing dog and pheasant game scene. The underside of the trigger guard is decorated with a Deer. The bottom tang is marked “307”. The top tang is marked “SAFE” in gold. The water table is marked “307”. The metal oval insert on the belly of the buttstock is marked “D.B. RESS”. The top rib is marked “CHARLES DALY EXTRA FINE DAMASCUS BARRELS DIAMOND QUALITY”. The underside of the left barrel is marked “LE”. Both barrels are marked “SAXONY” and with crossed pistols with a crown above them. The underside of the right barrel is marked “453”. The right barrel flat is marked “307”. The forend hardware is marked “307”.

Barrel Length: 28”

Lindner Made Charles Daly SxS Shotgun, Diamond Quality SN307, 1800s Antique 12 Gauge

Choke: Both bores measure .715” at the muzzle.

Sights / Optics: This shotgun is mounted with a steel bead front sight.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are checkered walnut. The forend has some compression marks. The buttstock has a rounded pistol grip. The butt of the pistol grip has an oval recession. There are light scratches, compression marks and handling marks throughout. The belly of the buttstock has an oval piece of metal inlayed which is marked “D.B. Ress”. The LOP measures 14 ¼” from the front of the forward trigger to the back of the horn buttplate. There are small holes in the buttplate. The stocks rate in about Very Good overall condition.

Finish Originality: All Original

Bore Condition: The bores are bright. There are a few light scratches down the length of the bores. There is no erosion.

Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 50% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows some pinprick surface erosion and frosting on the underside of the receiver and trigger guard. The barrel shows a light brown patina. The Herringbone Damascus pattern is still very visible. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun rates in about Very Good condition.

Lindner Made Charles Daly SxS Shotgun, Diamond Quality SN307, 1800s Antique 12 Gauge

Mechanics: The action functions Correctly. We have not fired this shotgun.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None

Our Assessment: This was a Charles Daly marked shotgun made in Germany by Heinrich Lindner. This particular model is a Diamond quality with fine engraving and special Manufacture Extra Damascus barrels which were said to be five times more expensive than the standard Damascus. This is truly a quality firearm and was made to last. This is for the collector and is in great functioning condition.

 

Lindner Made Charles Daly SxS Shotgun, Diamond Quality SN307, 1800s Antique 12 Gauge

Lindner Made Charles Daly SxS Shotgun, Diamond Quality SN307, 1800s Antique 12 Gauge

Lindner Made Charles Daly SxS Shotgun, Diamond Quality SN307, 1800s Antique 12 Gauge

Lindner Made Charles Daly SxS Shotgun, Diamond Quality SN307, 1800s Antique 12 Gauge

Lindner Made Charles Daly SxS Shotgun, Diamond Quality SN307, 1800s Antique 12 Gauge

Lindner Made Charles Daly SxS Shotgun, Diamond Quality SN307, 1800s Antique 12 Gauge

Lindner Made Charles Daly SxS Shotgun, Diamond Quality SN307, 1800s Antique 12 Gauge

Lindner Made Charles Daly SxS Shotgun, Diamond Quality SN307, 1800s Antique 12 Gauge

Lindner Made Charles Daly SxS Shotgun, Diamond Quality SN307, 1800s Antique 12 Gauge

Lindner Made Charles Daly SxS Shotgun, Diamond Quality SN307, 1800s Antique 12 Gauge

Lindner Made Charles Daly SxS Shotgun, Diamond Quality SN307, 1800s Antique 12 Gauge

WINCHESTER – Model 21 – 12ga – 30″ IC / F – – RARE – Double Trigger – Ejector – Splinter – 30 Inch

I’ve never owned a Winchester Model 21. But if I were to get one, it would similar to the one you see here. Simple, with no frills or goofy gold. Double triggers. Nice long barrels. I bet it’s a deadly double for pheasants.

The M21 was first produced in 1931, and it was manufactured by them until 1993. In all, about 35,000 of them left the Winchester factory.

WINCHESTER – Model 21 – 12ga – 30″ IC / F – – RARE – Double Trigger – Ejector – Splinter – 30 Inch: Very Hard to Find Combination of Features – Double Triggers, Ejectors, Splinter, 30″ Bbls. 1932 – Winchester Model 21 – 12ga, 2-3/4″, 30″, Imp Cyl / Full (.010 / .034), Pistol Grip, Splinter, DT, Ejectors, Automatic Safety, LOP 14-1/4″, Drop 1-5/8″ to 2-5/8″, Weight 7 lbs. 4 oz. Excellent Condition. Appears to be original finishes – at about 92% overall. Bores are excellent. Price: $5,450

WINCHESTER – Model 21 – 12ga – 30″ IC / F – – RARE – Double Trigger – Ejector – Splinter – 30 Inch

WINCHESTER – Model 21 – 12ga – 30″ IC / F – – RARE – Double Trigger – Ejector – Splinter – 30 Inch

WINCHESTER – Model 21 – 12ga – 30″ IC / F – – RARE – Double Trigger – Ejector – Splinter – 30 Inch

New Beretta SO10 sidelock O/U shotgun with pinless lockplates

Beretta is one of the world’s oldest gunmakers, and for hundred years they’ve used the innovative techniques to build their firearms. In this video, you can see the techniques the company is using to build their SO-series O/U shotguns.

Beretta’s SO-series over-and-unders are one of the world’s great doubles. Introduced around 1933 as the model S1, Beretta’s sidelock over-unders were the Italian maker’s response to Browning’s then new Superposeds.

Beretta’s in-house firearms designer Tullio Marengoni considered Browning’s O/U “..very high, heavy and ugly.” He set about to create a low-profile over-and-under similar to a Boss or Woodward that could also be mass produced in a factory like Beretta’s.

One thing that struck me: How much handwork Beretta has cut out of the gunmaking process.

Other than on the stock most of the gun’s part are machine made, and it looks like most of the work is done by programmers and machine operators rather than gunmakers. If the end result is best-quality work, I don’t know if this is good or bad.

12-BORE TOPLEVER LIVE PIGEON HAMMERGUN
J. PURDEY & SONS, AUDLEY HOUSE, SOUTH AUDLEY STREET, LONDON, SERIAL NO. 22210

Christie’s Fall, 2014, Sporting Guns sale went off last Monday. There were a lot of nice doubles in the sale, including a bunch of impressive shotguns and rifles from King Alphonse XIII of Spain‘s personal collection. King Alphonse was a big shooter, and he had the funds to indulge in great shotguns and double rifles.

This stunning Purdey hammergun was one his SxSs. It was presented to the King by the maker in 1921. It’s one of the finest hammerguns I’ve ever seen. Check out the engraving. It sure looks like it was done by the famous British Harry Kell. And take a look at the thick comb on the stock — much fuller and broader than what you would see on a Purdey game gun.

The king of Spain’s winning gun – an incredible Purdey hammergun

A VERY FINE 12-BORE TOPLEVER LIVE PIGEON HAMMERGUN : J. PURDEY & SONS, AUDLEY HOUSE, SOUTH AUDLEY STREET, LONDON, SERIAL NO. 22210: With 32 in. (81.3 cm.) blacked signed nitro chopperlump Whitworth steel barrels with raised matt rib, 2 ¾ in. (70 mm) chambers, bored approx. full and full choke, signed action with side-clipped carved percussion fences, gold-washed strikers, and signed rebounding locks, the action, toplever, locks, hammers, trigger-guard and fore-end iron finely engraved throughout with foliate scrollwork and retaining virtually all their original deep blued finish, highly figured 14 ½ in. stock with chequered butt, the underside of the butt inlaid with pierced gold escutcheon engraved with the Spanish Royal Arms, the heel of the comb inlaid with a gold escutcheon engraved ‘PRIZE PRESENTED TO THE TIRO – PICHON DE MADRID BY J. PURDEY & SONS WON BY H.M. KING ALFONSO XIII MAY 1921′, weight 7 lbs. 10 oz., in its original brass-cornered oak and leather gun case with some accessories. Estimate: £20,000 – £25,000 Price Realized: £35,000 ($55,020)

12-BORE TOPLEVER LIVE PIGEON HAMMERGUN J. PURDEY & SONS, AUDLEY HOUSE, SOUTH AUDLEY STREET, LONDON, SERIAL NO. 22210

According to Christies’ Specialist Howard Dixon: “This gun was won by His Majesty King Alphonse XIII of Spain in a live pigeon shooting competition in Madrid in May 1921. This was not a case of favoritism, of letting the king win; he really was a champion marksman at these competitions.

‘Purdeys would have offered up the prize of making a gun for the winner of the competition and it happened to be the king of Spain, who was one of their great customers. So, in under a year, they built this magnificent gun. It’s beautifully engraved with deep scrollwork and barely looks like it’s had a shot through it, the condition is just amazing. Every last turn of the chisel on the stock is still absolutely sharp. Out of the 49 lots in the sale from the king’s gun room, this stands head and shoulders above the rest for me. In fact, it’s one of the most beautiful guns I’ve ever seen.”

There were a number of other great guns in the sale, including a number of rare, pre-WW1 Spanish SxS. Here are a few highlights:

-A FINE 12-BORE SIDELOCK EJECTOR PIGEON GUN, VICTOR SARASQUETA, EIBAR, SERIAL NO. 21560, CIRCA 1930

H. Mahillon, Brussels – Matched Consecutive Pair, Sidelock Ejectors – 12 Gauge, 2 3/4″

H. Mahillon, Brussels – Matched Consecutive Pair, Sidelock Ejectors – 12 Gauge, 2 3/4″: 28″ SxS barrels with hand-matted concave ribs, both choked cylinder & modified. 14 5/8″pull from articulated front triggers to checkered butts. 1 1/2″ – 2 1/8″drop. 1/4″ cast-off. Highly figured English walnut stocks with Anson-pushbutton-release splinter forends, straight English grips, classic flat-top point-pattern borderless checkering and teardrops. Casehardened actions with intercepting sears, bushed firing pins, concealed third fasteners, gold-washed cocking levers and automatic top tang safety with S inlaid in gold. Engraved with highly refined floral bouquets and scrolls by R. Smeets, engraver to the King. Weight: 6lbs, 8oz. Built 1973. In virtually new condition, with 99%+ barrel blue and 99% casehardening colors. Tight and with excellent bores. All components numbered 1 and 2 in gold. Together in leather-trimmed green canvas covered motor case. Price: $29,975.

PETER MAHRHOLDT OVER/UNDER COMBO 2 BBL.MATCHING SET 30-06 / 12GA. CLAW MOUNT SCOPE ALL 98% COND. CASED

PETER MAHRHOLDT OVER/UNDER COMBO 2 BBL.MATCHING SET 30-06 / 12GA. CLAW MOUNT SCOPE ALL 98% COND. CASED: DOUBLE KERSTEN BLITZ ACTION WITH EJECTORS AND BUSHED STRIKERS.FULLY ENGRAVED WITH GAME SCENES AND SCROLL.24″ 30-06 BARRELS WITH EXCELLENT BORES, QUARTER RIB AND CLAW MOUNTS WITH HENDSOLDT 4X32 SCOPE.12GA,28″ BARRELS WITH EXCELLENT BORES,CHOKED FULL AND MODIFIED WITH 98% BLUE & OVERALL EXCELLENT CONDITION THRUOUT,CIRCA 1951,RIFLE WEIGHT WITH SCOPE IS 8 LBS 9 OZ.WITH SHOT GUN BARRELS 6 LBS 10 OZS.L.O.P. IS 14 7/16″ D.O.C. 1 3/8″ AND D.O.H. 2 1/4″ES WITH LEATHER CASE. Price: $8600

RENATO GAMBA – London Model 12ga SxS Sidelock shotgun

RENATO GAMBA – London Model 12ga: 27 ½” IC/Light Mod. Straight grip stock to a checked butt, double triggers with the front trigger being articulated, automatic ejectors, gold oval, splinter forend, sidelock gun with case coled finish, Churchill rib, London oil finish, gun remains in pristine condition, includes case. 7 lb., 1 oz. 14 3/4”x 1 3/8” x 2 5/16”. Price: $4,500

CHAS. DALY – PRUSSIAN LINDNER MADE – FIELD GRADE – 12 GAUGE SXS boxlock: 28’ barrels cyl/mod. – double triggers- ball grip – auto safety – double under bolts with additional cross bolt – 2 ¾” chambers – 14 ¼” x 1 5/8” x 2 7/8” – recoil pad – case colors 20% – checkered side panel with tear drop. – Price: $3,100

CHAS. DALY – PRUSSIAN LINDNER MADE – FIELD GRADE – 12 GAUGE SXS boxlock

PARKER TROJAN 16 GAUGE WITH 28″ BARRELS – #1 FRAME: Here is a nice condition Parker Trojan 16 with 28″ barrels. This is a solid gun – tight on face wIth top lever right of center, no loose ribs, original stock finish, and no cracks to the wood. Extractors. Bores as original. Right barrel measures .665 with 30/1000 choke (Full), while left is .666 with 28/1000 choke (Full). Chambers at 2 1/2″ also as original. Front and center bead. Auto safety. This is a #1 frame gun. Weight of gun is 6 LBS 12 7/8 OZ. Period Hawkins pad (not a reproduction). This is a 205,0000 serial number gun. Stock dimensions: LOP – 14 3/4″, Drop at Comb – 1 5/8″, Drop at Heel – 2 1/2″. Price: $1,350

PARKER TROJAN 16 GAUGE WITH 28″ BARRELS – #1 FRAME

What does it take to build the best? Check out these videos to find out. They do a great job of documenting just how Holland & Holland builds their legendary shotguns and double rifles.

Pair of new Holland & Holland Royal side-by-side shotguns

Compared to the Beretta video I posted the other day, it looks like H & H uses a lot more handwork. Is this true? Maybe, or maybe the people who created the video chose to focus more on the handwork. Either way, I think the first video does a great job of what we call “Building Value” in the ad world.

The second video is another look inside the Holland factory. It’s worth watching if you have the time.

PARKER BROS. 12 GA. VHE – NUMBER 1 FRAME

Here’s a Parker you rarely see. It’s a 12g that weighs 6lbs 10z – or about as much as a typical British 12 gauge game gun.

Most 12g Parkers were built on 1 1/2- 0r 2-sized frames. That pushed their weights into the 7 1/4 pound plus category (mostly plus). Even though Parker 12s could be built on the smaller 1-frames, few shooters ordered lightweight them. Instead, most people who wanted a sub-seven pound Parker dropped down to a 16 or 20 gauge.

PARKER BROS. 12 GA. VHE – NUMBER 1 FRAME: 28” BARRELS IM/FULL, DT, PG, 14  1/8” X 1  ½” X 2  ¾”, CASE COLORS 50%, WT. 6 LBS. 10 OZS., VERY CLEAN ORIGINAL GUN.  Price: $4,250.

PARKER BROS. 12 GA. VHE – NUMBER 1 FRAME

PARKER BROS. 12 GA. VHE – NUMBER 1 FRAME