12g Verney-Carron Sidelock Ejector Double Barrel Shotgun
Price and quality aren’t always linked together in the gun world. You can pay a lot for a mediocre shotgun, and you can pay a little to get a great double. The little/great scenario is the case with this 12 gauge sidelock side-by-side by Verney-Carron. At just $1,795, it looks like top quality at a rock-bottom price.
Verney-Carron is one of Europe’s oldest gunmakers. Founded in 1820, they’re one of few old-school, Euro makers around today. The reason for this longevity is simple: they make nice guns.
12g Verney-Carron Sidelock Ejector Double Barrel Shotgun
The shotgun pictured here is a true sidelock and it also has ejectors. The 27″ barrels are made of Verney-Carron’s top grade “Acier Diamant” (Diamond Steel), and the shotgun is stocked with a nice piece of walnut. Best of all, it weighs just 6 3/4 lbs – just right for an all around game gun.
12g Verney-Carron Sidelock Ejector Double Barrel Shotgun
So why is it so cheap? In France, shooters know and respect the Verney-Carron name. Over here, that’s not true. And because most guys buy names, shotguns by unknown makers are hard to sell (and cheap to buy).
BTW: check out this video on gunmaking from Verney-Carron. It’s a fascinating look at how much time and skill goes into a quality double-barrel rifle and shotgun.
Assuming there are no hidden defects, this is a great deal! VCs are well made, and based on the engraving and wood, this appears to be a very well finished gun. The Helicobloc action is similar to the Webley and Brain “screw grip” found on some higher quality British boxlocks and affords a very strong lockup. The “Trempe” stamp refers to some form of tempering on the barrels. If I had not just bought a VC sideplate Helicobloc, I would jump on this deal!
spotted this sat, anyone guessing the age? do these come in just below the sidelock guyot in real value? we ll see if she gets snapped up. deal of the season!!