I’ve never handled a holy relic. But I have handled a Boss OU.
The first time was in the summer of 1999. I was working at New England Arms, a gunshop Forbes FYI magazine said was “probably the finest gunshop in the world.” (It’s owner ended up in federal prison, but that’s another story).
Anyway, a 16g Boss OU came into the shop on a Tuesday. Even though it had problems, we sold it by Thursday. I think the price was $65,000. We mailed it out the following Monday, giving me fives days to admire it (I worked Mon-Sat). It went to some guy in Austin, TX, with “Dell” money.
A 12 gauge Boss O/U Double Barrel Pigeon Shotgun
Since then, I’ve handled Boss OUs in 12g, 16g, 20g, 28g, & .410. I’ve seen a 10g, and I know the whereabouts of a couple of 14gs. I’ve seen Boss OUs with rare, Rigby-style rising bites, and ones with the various action styles Boss used over the years for no apparent reason.
I’ve even handled one of the finest firearms Boss has ever built — and one of the finest sporting guns ever made — this unique round-action OU double rifle from 1929.
Boss & Co. Over & Under Double Rifle
Boss & Co. introduced their revolutionary OU in 1909. The company is still around today and still building its legendary shotgun. I think the starting price is £115,000 or so.
BTW: If you have a Boss OU and would like to know more about it or sell it, drop me an email — Gregg@DogsandDoubles.com. I can help you out.
Of all the world’s major gunmakers, few have been around as long as Browning and fewer have made as wide a variety of firearms. Many of Browning’s guns were built on patents created by the company’s brilliant founder: John Moses Browning. But while JM did invent everything from the M1911 pistol to the Superposed, he never came up with his own design for a SxS.
But that doesn’t mean Browning never “built” them.
20ga. Browning BSS Sporter SxS Shotgun
In fact, Browning introduced it’s first side-by-side shotgun in 1972. It was the 12g BSS boxlock, and in 1973 the company added a 20g. These guns were actually made in Japan by Miroku and they had beavertail forends and pistol-grip stocks. The trimmer, straight gripped Sporter models came out in ’78. (BTW: So did another classic — the Bee Gees’ Night Fever). Of all these BSS guns, ones Sporters with 28″ barrels are the toughest to find.
That’s why this 20g BSS caught my eye. While it’s not cheap, it is a nice gun at a fair price. It’s also pretty light for a 20g Browning with two tubes. For those reasons, I bet it will sell pretty quickly.
20ga. Browning BSS Sporter SxS Shotgun: 28″ bbl. choked F/IC (factory choked), single select trigger, ejectors, premium grade straight stock, beavertail forearm, 6lbs, As new 99%. Price:$2,050
Beretta’s BL over unders are great all around shotguns — especially the ones in 20 gauge.These guns were imported into the US in the ’60s & ’70s by the Garcia Corporation. With various degrees of engraving and a touch better finishing, I think they’re a bit more refined the 686s Beretta offered in years later.
20g Beretta BL-4 28″ & 26 3/4″ bbls: SERIAL #: X00029 DESIGN: Italian made Over/Under. 28″ vent ribbed barrels. Comes with an additional set of 26-3/8″ vent ribbed barrels. Chambered for 2-3/4″ & 3″ shells. MATERIAL/FINISH COMPOSITION: Blued steel. Checkered wood pistol grip stock and forearm. FEATURES: White bead front sight on bot barrels. Gold washed trigger. Nicely engraved receiver, trigger guard, top lever, and top tang. Barrel select button on tang safety. Checkered black plastic butt pad. 14-1/8″ length of pull. CONDITION: Excellent. Approximately 90% + of the finish remains on metal components. Light scratches on both sets of barrels. Bores are very good. Stock and forearm show modest wear with light scrapes on the bottom of butt stock. ESTIMATE: $600 – $800
JOHN RIGBY BEST PRE WAR SXS DOUBLE RIFLE 22 HI POWER
JOHN RIGBY BEST PRE WAR SXS DOUBLE RIFLE 22 HI POWER: SIDELOCK EJECTOR 24″ BARRELS WITH 1/4 RIB ONE STANDING SIGHT GREAT BORES DOUBLE TRIGGER PISTOL GRIP SPLINTER FOREARM EXCELLENT PLUS CONDITION MAKERS CASE WITH ACCESORIES 7LB 6 OZ X 14 7/8″. Price:$69,500
HOFFMAN ARMS CO. SIDE-BY-SIDE DOUBLE RIFLE
HOFFMAN ARMS CO. SIDE-BY-SIDE DOUBLE RIFLE: 10.75x68mm Mauser caliber (similar to .404 Jeffery). 26″ barrels with automatic ejectors and raised quarter rib with four leaf folding express sights. The frame and barrels were supplied by Sempert & Krieghoff in 1929 to the Hoffman Arms Co. It was stocked, and finished by Seymour Griffin formerly of Griffin & Howe. The receiver although unsigned appears to be beautifully engraved by Rudolph Kornbraith and has “HOFFMAN ARMS CO” in a banner on each side. Checkered forend and pistol grip buttstock with engraved grip cap and ending with a hard rubber pad. Condition is very high retaining considerable barrel blue, excellent casehardened finish on the receiver and triggerguard. Super wood and checkering. Beautiful mint bores. Weight: 9lbs 6oz. LOP: 14 1/8″ Comb: 1 1/2″ Heel: 2 1/4″. This rifle is very accurate and with the proper load and bullet will handle most anything. Price: $24,950
BERETTA – RARE – ASE – 20ga – 26″ – Vent Rib – Single Trigger – Prince of Whales – 1959 Hand Built Quality
Bores – as new and measure exactly as they left the factory in 1959.
Forearm – excellent plus.
Receiver and Trigger Guard – excellent plus.
Butt Stock – original, but some finish issues. No cracks or repairs. New laquer fixes any problems with the Butt Stock. The butt plate has shrunk. I’ve seen this on Beretta shotguns from this era before.
WILLIAM R. PAPE ISLAND SIDELOCK 12GA HAMMERGUN
WILLIAM R. PAPE ISLAND SIDELOCK 12GA HAMMERGUN: WITH RARE LEVER RELEASE, BEAUTIFUL TIGHT ENGLISH SCROLL ENGRAVING WITH TRACES OF CASE COLORS, 29″ FINE DAMASCUS BBLS WITH DOLLSHEAD, 2 3/4″ NITRO PROOF, 850 BAR, MIN WALLS, 28 THOU PLUS, CHOKED IC/FULL, STANDARD GAME RIB, EXTRACTORS, DBL TRIGGERS, HIGHLY FIGURED ENGLISH WALNUT WITH ENGRAVED TOE & HEEL PLATES, LOP 14 1/2, 1 3/8, 1 13/16, 6LBS 7OZ, BERY FINE ORIGINAL CONDITION, EXCELLENT BORE, TIGHT ON FACE!Price: $4,295
CHARLES DALY MODEL 500 20GA SxS BY MIROKU
CHARLES DALY MODEL 500 20GA SxS BY MIROKU: The nicest Model 500 I have seen. Very few minor imperfections in wood and metal. Close to new. 28in barrels have had the chokes opened to IC and MOD . Price:$1200
Manufacturer: Miroku
Model: Charles Daly Model 500
Bore: 20 GA
Chambers: 3IN
Condition: Close to New
Barrels: 28IN
Triggers: 2
Stock Comb: 1 1/2IN
Stock Heel: 2 9/16IN
LOP: 14 1/4
Weight: 6.6 lbs
The Anson & Deeley boxlock is one of the most successful shotgun actions of all time. Invented in 1875 by Westley Richards, the design has been the basis for millions of shotguns, including the one you see here.
H. Mahillon was a Belgian maker with a shop is Brussels. They “made” a wide range of guns: From bolt rifles to best-quality sidelock pigeon guns. I say “made” because I’m not sure if the company built its own guns or had them made in the trade by other craftsmen. Regardless of who actually did the making, every Mahillon I’ve seen has been very well built.
I’m sure the one you see here is, too. If you’re looking for a great little bird gun at a fantastic price, this is it. It’s on Gunbroker.com now, and the listing ends tomorrow, 9/11/2015, @ 4:30:26 PM ET.
H. Mahillon 20g SxS Double Barrel Shotgun
H. Mahillon 20g SxS Double Barrel Shotgun: Up for bid is a lovely looking, lightly used H Mahillon SxS side plated boxlock ejectorgun shotgun chambered in 20 gauge. Barrels are 26 3/4″ with excellent, bright strong bores with a single bead at the muzzle and matted rib. Metal surfaces are blued and coin finished. I believe the barrels have been professionally reblued and currently retain about 95% of this finish with some scattered marks, scratches and small dings. Receiver is coin finished and it and the lever, sideplated boxlocks, triggerguard, tangs, and screw heads show tasteful engraving; please see the multiple closeup photos. Straight grip English style stock and splinter forend are nicely checkered. Shotgun features a checkered wooden butt and side clips where the receiver and breech end of the barrels meet. LOP is 12 3/4″ and 13 3/4″ with drops at comb and heel of 1 1/2″ and 2 3/16″ respectively. Shotgun weighs in at 5 lb 12 oz. European swivels are at the stock and bottom rib of the barrels. Matching serial numbers.
Here’s a nice little bird gun that’s all you need in the uplands. These Beretta SxSs are tough to find — especially with double triggers. With a little tweaking and a few modification (lengthen the stock, open one of the chokes), it will be a great grouse & woodcock gun.
Here’s a real nice looking two-barrel, over-under B. Rizzini set that’s up for auction now. It’s on Gunbroker.com and the listing ends 5/10/2015 @ 9:34:00 AM ET.
B. Rizzini is in Italy, and they’ve been building shotguns for around for 30+ years. There are a number of Italian gunmakers named Rizzini, and B. Rizzini has a reputation for being one of the best. (BTW. F.lli Rizzini is the top Italian-Rizzini gunmaker, but they’re in aother league, completely.)
Rizzini Aurum Classic O/U, 2 barrel Set 20g & 28g: Bottega C. Giovanelli by the trigger gauard, 28″ vent rib in 20 ga. and 28 ga. both barrels comes with 5 chokes, has a Kick-Eez recoil pad installed and the original wood butt plate (14 1/2″ LOP) comes in a hard case, Excellent Condition.
Here’s one of the Holy Grails of American shotguns. A.H. Fox made very few graded, 20 gauge double, and one in a CE-grade is very tough to do. This one here sure looks original, and the stock is high enough to make the gun really usable.
A.H. Fox CE Grade 20ga double barrel SxS shotgun: Early gun manufactured in 1915, SN: 2007xx. 26″ M/F Krupp Steel barrels with very good blue. Ejectors. Very nice wood in excellent condition, modern, shootable dimensions at 14″ LOP, 2 1/2″ DAH for original buttplate. Gun weighs right about 6 lbs, points and swings like a dream. Case colors in protected areas. Beautiful, early engraving in excellent condition. This gun comes with documentation and will letter if owner so desires. A rare opportunity to own a nice, original example of an early graded AH Fox shotgun produced when quality was at its best. Price:$12,500.
A.H. Fox CE Grade 20ga double barrel SxS shotgunA.H. Fox CE Grade 20ga double barrel SxS shotgunA.H. Fox CE Grade 20ga double barrel SxS shotgun
Rare 20 gauge A. H. Fox He Grade Superfox Double Ejectorgun Shipped To E.C. Crossman
Here are two tough-to find American doubles coming to auction. They’re both A.H. Fox HE SxS, one in 12 gauge and one in 20 gauge. Both are coming up this weekend at Amoskeag Auctions March sale.
Fox made about 300 of these HE-grade Super Fox side-by-side shotguns — just sixty in 20 gauge and the rest in 12. All of them were heavy, overbored doubles made for wildfowling with Western Cartridge’s new-at-the-time Super-X ammo.
Lot # 85: Rare A. H. Fox He Grade Superfox Double Ejectorgun Shipped To E.C. Crossman. Serial #202292, 20 Ga. (2 3/4”), 32” Chromox barrels choked full and full with bright excellent bores showing just some faint remnants of light pitting in a couple spots with a tiny dent in the right tube near the muzzles which was professionally raised. The barrels retain about 90% original blue, the loss due to overall light fading, actually appearing much stronger undernormal ambient light. The frame is lovely and retains 75-80% original color case-hardening which is quite vivid, the belly of frame toning to a silvery case-hardened patina; it features light fancy borderline engraving with little floral sprays around the pins and screw holes.
Rare 20 gauge A. H. Fox He Grade Superfox Double Ejectorgun Shipped To E.C. Crossman
The gun is stocked half-pistolgrip in a nice grade of walnut, the stock rating very good plus to near excellent with much original varnish and only minor dings and handling marks from the years. It is fitted with a more contemporary Hawkins recoil pad, added to the contour of the butt, the original pad having deteriorated with the years, the length of pull is 14 7/16” with drops of 1 1/2” and 2 7/8”; the forend is a bit darker and rates very good plus as well showing a thin sliver of bedding compound at its junction with the forend iron. The gun locks up Fox-tight with the top lever still right of center, the gun seems to operate well mechanically and the ejectors are robust; the safety is non-automatic. The included factory letter confirms the configuration and shows shipment to none other than E.C. Crossman on August 14, 1925 “for Phill Crosman” (sic). Savage historian John T. Callahan took the liberty of including copies of the original build card and job tag for the shotgun. The build card, under the “For” heading reads “E.C. Crossman”, the rear of the card showing pellet count for left and right barrels. The job tag reads on front and back: “Test Gun and send to Phill Crosman” and “Mr. Roll This Gun shoots 79% in 5 shots out of Right bbl 79 1/2% out of 5 shots in Left bbl B.Becker”, obviously from the renowned Burt Becker to Adolph Roll, Fox Sales Manager. With only sixty 20 ga. Super Fox shotguns ever made, this is a really rare and lovely Super Fox in its own right, all-the-more desireable with the connection to the famous Crossman clan. Truly a super – Super Fox. Estimate: $8000 – $10000.
12 gauge A. H. Fox He Grade Super Fox Boxlock Double Ejectorgun.
Lot # 386: A. H. Fox He Grade Super Fox Boxlock Double Ejectorgun: Serial #29562, 12 Ga. (3”), 30” barrels choked full and full with bright excellent bores. The barrels retain about 98% excellent quality restored blue finish with some light muzzle wear and a remnant or two of light pitting beneath. The frame is lovely retaining 99% restored vibrant color case-hardening with the familiar light H-grade borderline engraving and makers name; the triggerguard shows excellent blue as well. The round knob pistolgrip buttstock rates excellent as professionally refinished with evidence of a repaired crack at left and right of top tang; it seems to have been effective and the stock seems sound and will not flex. The splinter forend is in a similar state of condition and both show perfectly chased checkering.
12 gauge A. H. Fox He Grade Super Fox Boxlock Double Ejectorgun.
The length of pull to the grooved hard rubber buttplate is 14 1/8” with drops of 1 5/8” and 3” (although the factory letter indicates 2 3/4”, the stock appears original in all respects). The safety is non-automatic and two of the screws show some light slot damage…they are not quite regulated and clearly someone with an incorrect width blade attempted to turn them. The gun locks up tightly with the top lever still right of center and the gun seems to operate properly mechanically. The included factory letter verifies the configuration and shows shipment in September of 1925 to W. R. Burkhard Co. (St. Paul Minn.). Really an excellent as-restored Super Fox that should be taken back afield for some waterfowl bustin in the fall seasons. Estimate: $2500 – $4000
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.
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.
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
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.
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 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 chamberBeretta Uplander in 20 gauge 28″ barells 3 inch chamber
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
I’m always amazed by what folks will pay for smallbore American shotguns. Check out this 20g Fox XE to see what I mean. This is a nice, original gun, and someone is going to pay dearly for it. It’s on Gunbroker.comn now and the listing end on Monday, 8/25/2014, @ 9:00:00 AM ET. So if you want to get in on the action, bid now.
The XE was one of Fox’s upp-grade guns. I don’t know how many they made in 20 gauge, but the number is certainly real low.
Here’s more about this 20g from the seller:
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.
1921 A.H. Fox 20 gauge XE double barrel shotgun
Factory notes indicate: “Full pistol grip, stock 13 ½” to center, 13 ¼” at toe, short toe for woman’s hand, Lyman sights, Silvers recoil pad.” It appears to be in original condition with in use wear. Recoil pad may have been replaced at some point in time. Bores are bright with no pitting. I don’t have barrel minimum thickness measurements, but gun was determined to be within specification by Jim Kelly of Darlington Gun Works. It has normal in use hunting wear and dings. The wood and checkering are sound. One trigger is lighter in pull than the other.
1921 A.H. Fox 20 gauge XE double barrel shotgun
The shotgun has an engraved metal plate on the stock with the original owner’s name, H. N. Torrey. In 1924, Dr. Henry Norton Torrey and his wife, Nell Ford Torrey, of Detroit, Michigan, purchased Ossabaw Island, a 26,000 acre barrier island on Georgia’s coast near Savannah. The family owned the island until 1978 when the State of Georgia assumed ownership. Dr. Torrey was an avid outdoorsman, who hunted and fished around the world. Dr. Torrey died in 1945. The gun has been in the family since purchased by Dr. Torrey and has remained until recently on Ossabaw Island in the possession of Dr. Torrey’s daughter who lives on the Island.
If you follow this blog, you know how much I love these guns. And if you’ve ever shot a Beretta 686 with 28″ barrels, you’ll know why. These two are in nice shape and priced right. If you think the wood on them is too plain, check out these custom stocks from Cole Gunsmithing.
BERETTA – Gallery Special – 686 Onyx – 20ga & 28ga Set – High Grade Wood: Two Barrel set – LOP 14-3/4”, Drop 1-1/4” to 2 3/8″ over a Kick-Eez pad, with a slight cast off. Both Barrels 28″ Mobilchoke and Numbered 1 & 2 with 5 factory screw chokes each gauge. Weight – 6 lbs. 7 oz. with the 20 bore barrels and 6 lbs. 10 oz. with the 28 bore barrels.
BERETTA – Gallery Special – 686 Onyx – 20ga & 28ga Set – High Grade Wood
Sold only thru Beretta Gallery stores – Gallery markings on the bottom of the frame, top tang, and trigger guard. Upgrade wood with oil finish and a stock oval. Schnabel forearm for each set of barrels. Original satin black finish at 98+%, and original wood oil finish is at 98+%, bores are as new and the gun remains as tight as new. Very Rare Gun. The only Black Onyx Finish multiple barrel sets I’ve every seen have been Gallery Guns. I suspect the Onyx was never offered in the two barrel set, except through the Gallery Store. Price:$3,950
I love my 20 gauge Beretta 686. With 28″ barrels, a reliable single trigger, and choke tubes, it’s a hard gun to beat. And it’s great looking gun. The flat-black Onyx finish really sets off the figure in the stock, and gives the entire gun an elegant, classic look.
But this little post-WW2 Merkel 200E has my eyes wandering. I don’t know why it appeal to me. It’s probably the gun’s age. For some reason, I like old doubles. It looks like this one Merkel made in the ’50s. According to Hallowellco.com., the Model 200-E featured aBlitz action with double Kersten locks and underlugs with no bites. Even though my Beretta is a more practical gun, this Merkel has me wondering if it’s time to make a trade. Here’s more about it from the seller:
20 gauge Merkel 200E Double Barrel Shotgun: Kersten crossolt action, 20ga, 26″ m/IC, DT’s ejectors, fancy checkered English stock, 14 1/” LOP over buttplate, 6 lbs., 90%+ blue bbls, 40% fading receiver color, some light stock handling, tight as new Price: $1,595.00
Ithaca Flues Grade 3E 20 gauge Double Barrel Shotgun
A lot of side-by-side fans don’t know this, but up until World War 2, the Ithaca Gun Co. was one of the most successful shotguns makers in the US , and probably in the world. The company made several different models of side-by-sides up until then, and the Flues was one of their most popular.
Introduced in 1908 and made until 1926 (when it was replaced by the NID)m Ithaca made 223,000+ Flues shotguns. Of those, the one you see here has to be one of the rarest. Not only is it a graded 20 gauge, but it also has ejectors, 30″ barrel, and a ton of original condition.
It’s up for auction now on Gunbroker.com and the listing ends on 11/12/2013 @ 12:34:10 PM ET. You probably won’t see another one like it again, so if you like it, bid on it now. Here’s more about it from the seller:
Ithaca Flues Grade 3E 20 gauge Double Barrel Shotgun
Ithaca Flues Grade 3E 20 gauge. A great example of early Ithaca engraving. Serial number has this gun being manufactured in 1920. 30″ barrels, 2 1/2″ chambers, ejectors and it’s choked tight mod/tight mod with FULLY TAPERED CHOKES FROM THE FACTORY!!! The right barrel measures .605 with a .17 (.588) constriction at choke. The left barrel measures .605 with a .16 (.589)constriction at choke. The wood has beautiful figure, the case color is approximately 70%-75% intact and the bluing is 97%. The LOP is 14 1/8″. Drop @ Comb is 1 1/2″ and drop @ heel is 2 3/4″.
Ithaca Flues Grade 3E 20 gauge Double Barrel Shotgun
New England Arms (NEA) FAIR RIzzini 20g 702 O/U Shotgun
New England Arms in Kittery Point, ME, used to be the finest gunshop in the world. At their peak, the shop usually had a couple hundred used guns on hand — everything from high-grade Lefevers and Parkers shotguns to Boss O/Us and Holland & Holland double rifles. They were also North America’s largest importer of Arrieta shotguns, and they also brought in new doubles by Italian makers Bosis, Bertuzzi, Flli Rizzini, and Fabbri.
Starting in 1999, they also brought in a line of O/Us made by F.A.I.R (Fabrrica Armi Di Isidoro Rizzini). These were solid, well made guns designed by NEA and built on a time-tested Italian triggerplate action. The one below was one of the fancier grades offered. It’s probably a decade old, and it looks to me like a heck of deal.
New England Arms (NEA) FAIR RIzzini 20g 702 O/U Shotgun
New England Arms (NEA) FAIR 702 20 gauge in the perfect configuration: 28″ over-under barrels are in excellent condition with clean, smooth bores, choked IC/M and bluing in great original condition. The straight English stock is an extremely well figured walnut with strong marbling. The case is blued with inset gold wire engraving scroll and lettering details. This gun only has the expected normal wear – some micros cratches. No gouges, chips, cracks, large scratches, etc. Schnabel forend. I have had this gun for a few years but only been able to shoot it twice. It fits and moves well (LOP is about 14″). Price: $2,200
JOSEPH MANTON 16 BORE PERCUSSION BALL & SHOTGUN: 32″ twist steel barrels, stepped at 22 1/2″ from the muzzle and intended for ball as well as shot. The barrel legend reads “JOSEPH MANTON & SON, 6 HOLLES STREET, CAVENDISH SQUARE, LONDON”. Serial number 10651 and listed in the Manton book with a full description including the stepped barrel. Cased in a magnificent pigskin lined oak box by John Dickson & Son’s for Charles Gordon around 1890. It is in mint condition with all of the accessories that include both shot flask and mold. Price: $24,500.00
Parker DHE 20 Ga Double Barrel Shotgun
Parker DHE 20 Ga Double Barrel Shotgun: Ser. No. 229262. 20 Ga.- 26″ barrels choked .010″/.020″. PG, SF, rear position SST. 13 5/8″ pull to a skeleton butt.- drop- 1 1/2″ to 2 1/4″. A wonderful bird gun. Price: $12,500.00
Winchester Model 21 – 16 ga – 2 Bbl Set – 26″ and 30″ – Cased – – Provenance to Carnegie Family
Winchester Model 21 – Skeet Grade – 16ga, 26″, 2-3/4″, WS-1 / WS-1 AND 16ga, 30″, 2-3/4″, IC / F. Original LOP is 13-1/4″ with Drop of 1-9/16″ to 2-7/16″, Weight 6 lbs. 12 oz. Metal is absolutely original – not reblued. Finish on wood appears original. Includes a period A.H. Hardy case – set up for 26″ and 30″ Barrels. Price: $9,500.00
ITHACA GRADE 5 ENGRAVED DOUBLE BARREL 12 GAUGE SHOTGUN: Boxlock, 32” barrels, excellent bores, full coverage engraving in floral motifs with pheasant and partridge scenes on the sides and a bald Eagle on the underside. Fancy checkering on splinter forearm and pistol grip buttstock. Deluxe walnut generally very nice with a couple of coats of lacquer having been added, some chips of finish have been knocked off buttstock from use; original hardrubber buttplate. Considerable darkened receiver case colors present, most gold wash remains on double triggers, 90%+ blue on barrels. Overall, a fine gun. Price: $ 6,500.
FOX A GRADE Double Barrel Shotgun LATE STYLE ENGRAVING 12 GAUGE WITH EJECTORS AND 30″ BARRELS: A nice late syle engraved Fox A Grade 12 gauge. This gun has 30″ barrels with perfectly timed ejectors. Gun has good original condition. Barrels as original with right barrel at .723 bore and 20/1000 choke (Modified) and Left at .724 bore with 34/1000 choke (Full). Tight on face. No Loose ribs. Solid gun. Weight is 7 LBS 13 OZ. Shipping is $35. Stock dimensions follow. LOP – 14 3/8″ to non-original buttplate. Drop at Comb – 1 3/4″. Drop at Heel – 3 3/8″. Price: $2,500
FOX A GRADE Double Barrel Shotgun LATE STYLE ENGRAVING 12 GAUGE WITH EJECTORS AND 30″ BARRELS
