If you following this blog, you know how much I like Prussian-Lindner-made Charles Daly Side-by-Sides. The Brits invented the Anson & Deeley boxlock shotgun, but in a lot of ways I think the Prussians and Belgians perfected it. To see what I mean, compare this Charles Daly Diamond Grade and Westley Richards Deluxe droplock.
Both side-by-sides are beautifully made and finished. But aesthetically, the 12 gauge Charles Daly Diamond is hard to beat. Just look at how rounded and sculpted the action is. The Daly also has a removable hinge pin and intercepting safety sears — features missing on the Westley.
Of course, the Westley is made on the famous Droplock action. A lot of people consider the droplock to be the apex of boxlocks. I agree that it’s a great design. I would love to have one, but it sure comes at a cost.
What do you think – Westley or Daly? Let me know…
You can see more nice Charles Dalys that I’ve written about here and here.
Gregg,
I am a fan of WR guns but I have to say that the Charles Daly gets my attention. If I had to pick one I suppose I would pick a WR droplock but only because I have more knowledge of that firm. However, you have opened my eyes as to the features and benefits of continental guns. Thank you for that.
On another note, I will say that I like the simplicity, layout, design and focus of your site. Thank you for it.
Michael Tabor
Amelia Island, Florida
wonderful contest! tell us the percentage differences, re: cost and weights of comparable guns, then i can vote. do comps.
for example, puglisi(g.i.) has 6.75# bird gun for 5,000/ robinhollow has 7.5# pigeon gun for 9,000,in the prussian diamond gr. how many dalys can you buy for one westley? and is westley much lighter?
being biased anyway, i vote to own 2 diamond – grade daly guns, to the one westley, for the same total expense, & in case i dropped one.