Anson & Deeley | Dogs and Doubles

See this weeks 5 doubles you don’t want to miss …

November 13, 2022 by Gregg

Francotte – 20E, SxS, 20ga. 26″ Barrels Choked SK/IM. ABERCROMBIE & FITCH CASE INCLUDED. MAKE OFFER: Semi pistol grip, small leather face pad, double trigger, AE, Abercrombie and Fitch gun in A&F case with all of its accessories. Sideclip, 3rd fastener, 90% plus case color, barrel blue and wood finish. Not a screw has been turned. Untouched great gun, splinter forend. A Great, Great untouched gun. 5 lbs. 6 oz. 14 ½” x 1 3/8″ x 2 ½” Price: $9,995*

Parker Brothers VHE SXS Shotgun 26″ Barrels 16 GA: 2 1/2″ chambers, IC/MOD (.005/.010), #1 Frame, double triggers, auto-ejectors, auto-safety, splinter forearm, capped pistol grip stock with replacement butt plate, 14 5/16″ LOP, 2 3/4″ DAH, approximately 90% barrel blue, shiny bores with very light dents in both bores, traces of case color, crisp engraving and unmarked screws, approximately 80% stock finishes with scratches and bruises. All original, except the replacement butt plate. Serial# 233840. Made in 1930. Price: $3,749*

BROWNING BSS SPORTER, 20 GA: SPECIAL ORDER WITH BEAVERTAIL FOREARM, 26” IMPROVED CYLINDER & MOD. 99+% COND. Price: $3,295*

WEBLEY & SCOTT, BIRMINGHAM, MODEL 700 12 GAUGE: WEBLEY & SCOTT LTD, BIRMINGHAM, MODEL 700 12 GAUGE, 28″ BARRELS, IMP CYL. (.010) AND FULL (.035), 2 3/4″ CHAMBERS, 99% BRIGHT BLUE MIRROR PERFECT BORES, SINGLE SIGHT, AUTO-EJECTORS, BARRELS RING NICELY. BOXLOCK FRAME WITH ATTRACTIVE ACANTHUS SCROLL ENGRAVING PATTERN, VIVID CASE COLOR, PERFECT ENGRAVED SCREWS, AUTO SAFETY, STRONG EJECTORS, TIGHT ON FACE. ROUND KNOB GRIP STOCK, SPLINTER FOREARM, EXCELLENT WOOD AND CHECKERING, CARVED BUTT, OVAL STOCK INLAY NOT ENGRAVED, 1 1/4″ X 2 1/4″ X 14 3/4″, 6 POUNDS 4 OUNCES. GREAT LITTLE UPLAND GAME GUN, PROBABLY 1950s – 1960s VINTAGE. Price: $2,750*

ITHACA 100, 20 GA. 28” MOD & FULL, ENGRAVED RECEIVER, WITH MALLARD DUCK IN FLIGHT, AND ROOSTER PHEASANT IN FLIGHT, 99% COND: SINGLE SELECTIVE TRIGGER, SPLINTER FOREARM, CHROME LINED BARRELS. Price: $2,495*

* FYI: DogsandDoubles.com is a not a gun dealer. We do not sell firearms. We do not have an FFL. The guns you see listed here are from Gunsinternational.com, a site DogsandDoubles.com is not affiliated with in any way. The accuracy of these listings from Gunsinternational.com has not been verified by Dogs and Doubles. All information and images have been provided by the sellers. Buyers are responsible for verifying the physical condition and specifications of the listed items. Dogs and Doubles suggests you and a qualified gunsmith physically inspect an item before purchasing.

Any statements made on DogsandDoubles.com regarding a firearm’s condition, originality, safety, value, or suitability to use are opinions only. These statements have not been verified. They are not guaranteed to be accurate or correct in any way.

See this week’s 5 doubles you don’t want to miss …

March 20, 2022 by Gregg

Fantastic Lightweight David McKay Brown 12ga – An elegant Rounded Bar Action engraved and gold inlaid to the highest degree: Made in 1986, this extremely fine 12ga David McKay Brown Game Gun made with 30″ Fluid steel barrels. Near fully checkered forend with Anson type push button release. The case hardened action is full coverage scroll engraved to the highest degree. The bottom of the action is nicely gold inlaid “A. Chesapeake” with a Chesapeake Bay Retriever bust engraved on the trigger plate. Sculpted fences and sides of action engraved “David McKay Brown” in banner. Gun made with double triggers, auto ejectors, auto safety. The extremely finely figured European Walnut buttstock is checkered in point pattern through the wrist and terminates with the original checkered butt. Overall the gun remains in exceptionally nice lighly field used condition. Barrels retain about 97% original blue. Action retains more than 95% original case color. Trigger guard retains about 85%++ original blue and top lever retains about 95% original blue. Stocks are sound and retain more than 97% original finish with only minor impressions. Checkering is still crisp. Bores are brilliant and shiny. Mechanics are crisp. These guns are highly sought after and rarely are offered for sale. Price: $39,950

F.LLI PIOTTI King No.1 20ga Sidelock Shotgun 29.5 LtM & IM 3″ chamber, Factory Leather case: Make F.LLI PIOTTI, Model King No.1, Configuration SXS, Gauge / Caliber 20 GA, Serial # 9326, Country of Origin Italy, Barrel Length (in Inches) 29-1/2 (75cm), Choke R Lt.M(.012), Choke L IM(.020), Trigger DT (Double), Stock Configuration Straight Grip, Leather covered pad, Forearm Type Splinter Forearm, Rib Type Matted Level Rib, Receiver Finish Casehardened, Engraving Type King I Fine Italian scroll Engraving, Other Options Factory leather case, 3″ chambers, Condition EXC. Condition, Weight 6#10oz Dimensions 1 1/2″ x 2 1/4″ x 14 1/2″ with 1/8″ cast off. Price: $25,000

William Ford Side-by-Side Boxlock Shotgun, Birmingham England, 12 Gauge: William Ford Side-by-Side shotgun fitted with 26 inch barrels (choked Sk1/IC), automatic ejectors, box lock action, double triggers, checkered walnut forearm with engraved metal, nicely figured checkered walnut stock fitted with a 3/4 inch black Pachmeyr Decelerator recoil pad, blue/color case-hardened finished, and chambered in 12 Gauge. This Birmingham, England shotgun is in excellent condition, with the barrels retaining 85% blue, with most thinning above the forearm, due to handling, the trigger guard/lower tang approximately 50% blue, and the frame retains 70% color case-hardened finish. The forearm and stock are in excellent condition, with sharp checkering and minimal handling marks. The bores are bright and the action is tight and functions perfectly, including the ejectors. This cast-off stock has a LOP of 15 1/16 inches front trigger/14 1/4 inches rear trigger, and 2 1/8 inch drop at heel. Price: $3,995

Pedro Arrizabalaga 12 gauge, Two-barrel set, Sidelock ejector, Regal Sabel, imported to the UK by Gunmark, Ltd in 1976: Model: Regal Sabel, Serial Number: 12219, Barrel Length: 26-5/8″, Bore Info: 12 bore, Chambers: 2-3/4″, Ejectors: Well-timed, Condition: Good, Metal Condition: Good, Wood Condition: Good, Bore Condition: Mirror bright, Barrels: Few use marks, Barrel Type: Spanish Steel, Action: Sidelock Ejector, Triggers: Articulated front/double, Stock: Straight European Walnut Stock Dimensions: 14-1/2″x1-1/2″x2-1/8, Stock Comb: DAC: 1-1/2″, Stock Heel: DAH: 2-1/8″, Stock Cast: Cast off for right hand use, Fore End: Splinter, Butt Pad: Checkered wood, LOP: 14-1/2″, Rib: Concave smooth, Finish: Blued Weight: 6# 4oz, Sights: silver front bead, Manufacture Date: 1976, Choke Left: Modified, Choke Right: Improved, Engraving: 85% rose and scroll, Extras: Hand detachable locks, Case: New Canvas and leather, Proof:Nitro: yes, Grips: Straight, checkered. Price: $3950

BROWNING 20 GAUGE B-S/S SXS SHOTGUN, 28″ BARREL, STRAIGHT GRIP

BROWNING 20 GAUGE B-S/S SXS SHOTGUN, 28″ BARREL, STRAIGHT GRIP: 20 Gauge, 28″ Blued Mod Full, Single Select Trigger, English Stock, Beavertail Forend, No box. Price: $1,995.99

See this week’s 5 doubles you don’t want to miss …

October 24, 2021 by Gregg

AYA No. 53 Presentation Sidelock 12 Ga SxS: Up for sale is a beautiful AYA presentation sidelock 12 Ga. This shotgun is in excellent condition with the exception of some slight handing marks on the stock. This gun was completed in February of 1949 and presented to General Lucas V. Beau, Commander of the United States Civil Air Patrol by a group of Spanish Aviation Cadets in 1951. This gun is very nice and also comes with a great story and factory leather case. If any questions or concerns arise, do not hesitate to call the number above or email. I don’t believe that this gun has ever been fired. Price: $7,950

The ultimate Lefever target/pigeon gun 32″krupp barrels, straight grip EE grade with insane modern dimensions: Beautiful later Syracuse made Lefever EE Grade made with 32″ Krupp fluid steel barrels. This gun with splinter forend that has a clam shell release, made with double triggers, auto ejectors, auto safety. Straight grip buttstock with long trigger guard tang, engraved stock oval with initials and original Lefever Arms Co. buttplate. The gun is nicely engraved in standard late EE Grade pattern with Pointer in game scene on left, Setter in game scene on right and light scroll throughout. This rare Lefever remains in very nice overall condition. The barrels retain virtually all of an older restored proper rust blue finish. The receiver retains about 20% original case color. Stocks are sound and retain most of an older restored finish. The mechanics are crisp and the bores are bright and shiny. The gun is tight on the face. I believe the gun was made as a heavy proof type gun and the long chambers appear to be original. Price: $5795

Rizzini Artemis Light 16G OU Shotgun: 28″ in barrels as new condition wth case and all accessaries. 14 3/8 LOP Right hand cast. approx 6.5 lbs. Only shot a box of shells, beautiful gun! Price: $3750

Webley & Scott Model 700 Side-by-Side 12 Gauge: Well used Webley & Scott 12 Bore Boxlock Ejector. 28″ Barrels, 2 3/4″ Chambers, choked IC & Full Frame and top lever with scroll engraving and retaining much of it’s original case hardening color Great measurements: 14 3/4″ LOP, DAH: 2 1/4″, DAC: 1 3/8″ Great barrel wall thickness at 0.031 & 0.028 Nitro proof Includes a Gunmark leather case 6lbs 7oz This is a well used Webley & Scott that has a good amount of handling marks/dents/dings. No cracks or mechanical issues but a well used gun that would be a perfect addition for a rainy day. Price: $1,750

Dickinson Arms ~ Plantation ~ 28 Gauge ~ SxS ~ Shotgun: In excellent condition. This shotgun features a color case-hardened receiver, and a straight grip stock with double triggers. Only minor signs of use and handling marks. Includes case. Chambers: 2 3/4″ Metal Condition: Excellent, Wood Condition: Excellent, Bore Condition: Clean, Barrels: 30″, Triggers: Double, Stock Dimensions: 14 3/4″ LOP, Butt Pad: Checkered Wood, Weight: 5 lb 8 oz. Sights: Single Bead. Chokes: IC, CYL. Price: $1,499.99

See this week’s 5 doubles you don’t want to miss …

April 11, 2021 by Gregg

THE LEFEVER ARMS COMPANY EXHIBITION 12 GAUGE: #20901, 30″ DAMASCUS BARRELS MOD AND FULL 2 1/2″ CHAMBERS, DOUBLE TRIGGER, EJECTORS, SPLINTER FOREARM, PISTOL GRIP, EXCELLENT CONDITION, HORN BUTT AND GRIP CAP, 7LBS 9 OZ, 2 1/4″ DAH, 1 1/2″ DAC, 14 1/2″ LOP. Price: $69,500

Connecticut Shotgun Manufacturing (CSM) 16g Model 21 SxS: Flat side action has factory double triggers and automatic safety. The action, barrels, guard & tang and the forend iron have a very deep black high-polished finish with very tastefully inlaid gold vine and leaf borders with single bird game scenes of a flushing duck in cattails on the right side, a flushing woodcock in the alders on the left side and a rooster pheasant in the grass on the bottom of the action. The stock is nicely figured American walnut with a straight hand grip, what looks like a leather faced red Winchester pad and standard Model 21 beavertail forend with an ebony wedge in the tip. Two barrel set consists of one set of 28” barrels choked WS-1 and WS-2 and one set of 29” barrels that are choked Lt. Mod and Full. Each set of barrels has machine matted solid ribs with single orange beads, and damascened barrel flats and water tables. Gun is in excellent shape overall with some very small handling marks on one side, otherwise wood and metal is superb! In a leather CSM two barrel set flat case with Maker’s leather trade label and canvas cover with blank initial patch. This is a very attractive and tastefully adorned gun. Price: $20,000

August Francotte SxS Model 20 – 20 ga., 28″ barrels: Feature engine turned game rib, side clips, third fastener, 2-3/4″ chambers, choked improved cylinder and modified (.007/.014). Double triggers, auto safe. The sideplated action is engraved in a fine English scroll and retains 98% original case color hardening. The round pistol grip stock of nicely figured French walnut measures 1-3/8″ comb, 2″ heel, with a LOP of 14-3/4″ over a leather pad. Marked with the Abercrombie and Fitch import name on the barrels, this is a classic double for about 100 years and a staple of the A&F line. This is a fine example retaining nearly all of the original finish as seen in the photos. There is a slight abrasion on the right barrel and some handling marks from use on the stock. The gun remains tight as new and weighs 6 lbs., 2 oz. Classy little upland double! Price: $5,750

Merkel ~ 203E Sidelock OU ~ 12 Gauge: This is a fully engraved sidelock ejector over under shotgun with hand detachable sidelocks. The ejectors are strong and well-timed, the double trigger are crisp with the front trigger being articulated. The 27″ Bohler Steel barrels are like new and have fixed FULL chokes. The butt stock is nicely figured with good shooting dimensions and the 3 piece forearm that fits nicely in hand. 100% coverage bank note scroll engraving on the sidelocks along with cocking indicators. This is a great looking and feeling shotgun. 12 Gauge. Chambers: 3″ Over/Under with ejectors., Metal Condition: Excellent with a touch of thinning blue on the trigger guard. The coin finished receiver is excellent. Wood Condition: Very nice with a few small dings and dents. Bore Condition: Bright and shiny. Barrels: 27″ blue with a solid rib. Triggers: Double triggers with the front being articulated. Stock Dimensions: “14 1/2″” LOP to the front trigger, 1 1/2″” DAC, 2 5/16″” DAH. Fore End: 3 piece forend with checkering. Butt Pad: Matching walnut with a checkered straight grip and a black butt plate. Weight: 6 Lbs. 12 Oz. Sights: Single white color front bead on a flat solid rib. Chokes: Fixed FULL and FULL. Price: $4,999.97

Connecticut Shotgun RBL28 SxS 28Ga. Shotgun NEW IN THE BOX: SN #RBL002840. NEW IN THE BOX. LOP 14 5/8″. Chamber 2 3/4″. DAC 1 1/2″- DAH 2 1/8″. Chokes are R/S Mod. and L/S Full. 30″ barrels with a Traditional Game Solid Rib. Case Colored Receiver with Hunting Dogs Engraved on sides. Premium checkered pistol grip Walnut stock and Beavertail forend. Single select trigger with barrel selector behind trigger. Ejectors. Comes in a nice Canvas Breakdown Case with Red Felt Interior and includes a Chrome oil bottle, Chrome snap caps, cleaning brushes, cleaning rods, and eye and ear protectors. Weight: 6 lbs. Trigger Pull: 5 1/2 lbs. Price: $4600

The story of the boxlock, my latest from Project Upland…

December 18, 2020December 17, 2020 by Gregg

Gorgeous early CSMC Fox XE Grade 20ga two-barrel set with case — Gorgeous early CSMC Fox XE Grade 20ga. An American version of a boxlock shotgun.

The Anson & Deeley-style boxlock is one of the most successful shotgun designs of all time. It’s has been used by gunmakers worldwide to build SxS, and imitations of it include some of the most successful doubles ever built. Here’a a piece I wrote about it for Project Upland magazine.

FRANCOTTE SPECIAL BOXLOCK SXS 28 GAUGE — FRANCOTTE SPECIAL BOXLOCK SXS 28, A TYPE OF ANSON & DEELEY BOXLOCK

How the Boxlock Shotgun Became a Standard

For every first place there is a second, and for every top dog there are others snapping at its tail. In the nineteenth century, London was the capital of first-rate gunmaking. Birmingham, 100 miles north, was the runner-up, and the major gunmakers there–W. & C. Scott, W.W. Greener, Westley Richards–were doing all they could to develop new guns that would put them on top. Today, you and I owe a huge debt to this struggle and to the shotguns it created….

>> READ THE ENTIRE PIECE OVER AT PROJECT UPLAND

Westley Richards Anson-Deeley Cutaway, pic from The Explora — Westley Richards Anson-Deeley, the original boxlock shotgun. Pic from The Explora

PRUSSIAN CHARLES DALY - TIME CAPSULE CONDITION - MADE IN 1932 - EJECTORS - 30" BARRELS — CHARLES DALY – MADE IN 1932 – A SPIN ON THE ANSON & DEELEY DESIGN

Auction alert: 20g F.LLI Piotti BSEE Lusso …

October 20, 2020 by Gregg

LOT 101: F.LLI Piotti BSEE Lusso 20 Ga Boxlock SxS Shotgun SN: 8059

Here’s your chance to get a deal on a great side-by-side. This 20g Piotti BSEE Lusso is coming up this Saturday at REATA PASS AUCTIONS INC in Humboldt, AZ. The auction begins at 11:00 AM Pacific time.

This gun is built on the Anson & Deeley boxlock action, one of the most reliable — and copied — shotguns designs ever created. Armi F.lli Piotti’s interpretation of it is one of the finest out there. New, BSEEs start at $23,150, and to get one like you see here, you’ll spend at least $30,000.

Here’s the auctioneer’s listing:

LOT 101: F.LLI Piotti BSEE Lusso 20 Ga SN: 8059: Superb quality side-by-side double barrel boxlock shotgun chambered for 2 3/4″ 20 gauge shells, carefully hand crafted in Brescia, Italy circa 1984. Masterfully engraved & signed by noted engraver Maestro Walter Patelli. Imported by William Larkin Moore of Westlake, CA with import information engraved on the underside of the barrel. Configuration: Blued 26″ chopper-lump barrels with fixed improved cylinder/cylinder chokes & matted solid sighting rib, silver bead front sight, automatic ejectors, single trigger, coin finished fancy back receiver featuring exquisite scrolling acanthus engraving with floral highlights, sliding tang safety, knurled top lever, super fine point highly figured black stripe walnut splinter forend with Anson release & inlayed diamond escutcheon, and straight grip shoulder stock with inlayed gold circle escutcheon & leather wrapped recoil pad. Stock dimensions: drop at comb 1 5/16″, drop at heel 1 7/8″, length of pull 14 3/8″ and cast-off approximately 1/4″. Includes a leather wrapped locking trunk case by Nizzoli with factory label and partitioned interior containing a three-piece wood cleaning rod, snap-caps & Fabbri lubricant. The barrels retain approximately 96% of their blued finish showing wear/thinning near the muzzle and scattered handling marks/scratched with no observed finish loss on the receiver. Action is smooth & on-face, the bores are pristine and the oil finished wood stocks are extra fine. Condition in near NRA Excellent. Estimate: $15,000 – $22,500

Auction alert: 1982 12g Westley Richards, Anson & Deeley Boxlock …

July 22, 2019July 21, 2019 by Gregg

One of the most versatile shotguns you can own is a lightweight twelve gauge. And that’s exactly what you see here. This side-by-side is on Gunbroker.com now and the online auction ends today, 7/22/2019, @ 4:42 PM, EST.

Thanks to all the different loads available for a 12 gauge, a SxS like this is perfect for everything from grouse and woodcock to pheasants and even quail.

1982 12g Westley Richards, Anson & Deeley Boxlock: SERIAL NUMBER: GN147, Caliber/Gauge: 12 Gauge – 2-¾”, Barrel Length: 26” Factory Length, Chokes: Imp Cylinder / Modified, LOP: 14-3/8” to Factory Plate, Drop at Comb: 1-¼”, Drop at Heel: 2”, Cast: Cast Off for right-handed shooter, Pitch: 2.2 Degrees, Bore: Excellent: Bores are shiny and smooth with no signs of rust or pitting.

Stock: 80% – Very Good: Stock and forend in original, factory configuration. Checkering is sharp and without defect. Finish is strong throughout with minor wear. Light handling marks visible with no cracks, chips, dents or gouges present. Handling marks do not do through finish.

Metal: 80% – Very Good: Original, factory bluing on barrels is dark and strong. Case color on receiver is approximately 50% remaining, with areas of dark, contrasting color and other areas of little to no color remaining. Steel is smooth to the touch with no rust, oxidation or pitting present. Light handling marks present on inspection.

Original, 1982 Westley Richards, Anson and Deeley Boxlock in 12 gauge. Includes factory, takedown case.

A nice 16g SxS that doesn’t cost a fortune…

November 28, 2018 by Gregg

Bargain bird gun: A St. Etienne "Heliobloc" 16Ga Boxlock Side-by-Side, 2 ½” chambers, extractors — Bargain bird gun: A St. Etienne “Heliobloc” 16Ga Boxlock Side-by-Side, 2 ½” chambers, extractors

When I first got into doubles, I thought every gun with two barrels cost a fortune–especially side by sides. Of course, to a kid just out of college they did.

But as I learned more about nice shotguns, I realized not all doubles are insanely expensive. While you can easily spend $5,000 – $30,000+ on a SxS from a maker like Parker or James Purdey & Sons, you can also spend less and get one that would be an ideal bird gun.

The boxlock you see here looks like that kind of gun. Sure it’s a basic boxlock, but it’s built on one of the most reliable designs ever created (the Anson & Deeley action). With sideplates and a blued finish, it’s a nice looking gun, and because it’s European, it has that “je ne sais quoi” that set it apart from your everyday A.H. Fox or British boxlock. Best of all, it costs less than a brand-new Benelli autoloader.

St. Etienne “Heliobloc” 16Ga Boxlock Side-by-Side, 2 ½” chambers, extractors: A nice guild gun on St Etienne preferred boxlock action; the Helicobloc action works on the same principle than the Webley screw grip, but with the thread at the Bottom of the top lever spindle. This one is sideplated, double triggers, manual safety, border engraved with a black finish (90% condition). The stock is semi pistol grip with round knob, 14 ¾” LOP over .800” pad, 1 ¾” and 2 ¾” drop, ¾” cast off with nice skip line checkering and carved borders (90% finish 95% checkering). 27” tubes with dovetail lumps by Jean Breuil barrel maker (very nicely done with brazed ribs, triple-proof and Martens steel). Bores are .669, walls are .031 and chokes at .014 and .022 (mod and imp mod). Blacking is in 90% condition, the bores have light oxidation at the upper mid barrel , that I guess would clean up with a .002 honing. Price: $1,200

Auction alert: 12g Westley Richards droplock with hidden value…

April 28, 2018April 27, 2018 by Gregg

WESTLEY RICHARDS Gold NAME 12 gauge DROPLOCK SXS SHOTGUN

There are 4 things I love about this classy, little Best-Quality Westley Richards boxlock ejector droplock shotgun coming to auction May 7, 2018 at Poulin’s Antiques in Fairfield, ME.

1. It’s an Anson & Deeley-style boxlock. This is one of the classic British shotgun designs. Reliable & rugged, it’s been around since 1875 and is still used by Westley Richards today (those guns start at £54,500).

2. Droplocks (or”detachable locks,” as the Brits call them). Invented in 1897, droplocks are durable, easy to maintain, and just plain cool. Gunwriter Vice Venters wrote “Westley Richards hand detachable…are nothing short of a stroke of genius.”

3. Newish barrels by Westley Richards in 1954. They’re this gun’s hidden value–and a huge benefit. Even though this gun is 100+ year old, it has modern, 2 3/4″ chambers nitro-proofed for 1 1/4 ounce loads (and perfect upland chokes). That means it can shoot most easy-to-find, modern, 12-gauge ammo (just stick to light loads and lead shot).

4. Its estimate. With a low range of $3,000, it could go cheap. And if it goes anywhere with the $3-5,000 range, it’s a deal.

Lot 1014: WESTLEY RICHARDS DROPLOCK SXS SHOTGUN: Cal. 12 Ga., 2 3/4″. S# 9004. Bbls. 26″ Fluid steel w/ Nitro proofs for 1 1/4 oz. loads were new from Westley Richards in 1954. “Westley Richards” gold name model. Scalloped drop lock action having Case colored finish w/ blue floorplate & trigger guard. Removable locks have fully jeweled surfaces. Single selective trigger. Auto ejectors. Horn-tipped splinter forearm & straight hand stock of hand checkered fine English walnut w/ silver nameplate in toeline. LOP: 14 5/16″ over Universal solid red pad. DAC: 1 5/8″. DAH: 2 1/4″. Cast off. Bore diameter: right – .729, left – .029. Bore restriction: right – .010, left – .020. Wall thickness: right – .033, left – .030. Weight: 6 lbs. 5.9 oz CONDITION: 70% blue w/ fading along sides. Frame retains 30% lightly visible case colors. Floorplate shows 80% blue. Trigger guard has good blue on bow w/ silvering along grip. Stocks have lightly worn finish w/ scattered scratches & handling marks. Very good bright bores. (17-3919/DS). CURIO. $3,000-5,000.

WESTLEY RICHARDS Gold NAME 12 gauge DROPLOCK SXS SHOTGUN

The secrets of the sexy 20 gauge Westley Richards SxS …

March 12, 2017 by Gregg

20 gauge Westley Richards SxS Double Barrel Shotgun, 26" barrels, Westley single trigger — 20 gauge Westley Richards SxS Double Barrel Shotgun, 26″ barrels, Westley single trigger

On Wednesday, I put up this post and asked Can you guess this 20 gauge Westley Richards’ secrets?

Right away, few folks spotted this pretty little side-by-side’s special features right: sideclips, a Greener-style top bolt, and, most impressively, droplocks (AKA hand-detachable locks).

Westley Richards patented the Anson & Deeley boxlock action in 1875. Twenty-one year later, they updated it with their iconic hand detachable locks. Hand-detachable locks were to clean up the action’s appearance. After their introduction, a couple major benefits became apparent: If a lock breaks in the field, it can be replaced in a few minutes, and at the end of damp mornings or wet days, you pull the locks out for oiling and give the inside of the gun a good opportunity to dry.

Original WR advertising image for detachable locks

Here a few things I love the 20 gauge droplock you see here:

-The beautiful cut scroll engraving

-The original Westley Richards single selective trigger

-The blushes of genuine color-case hardening

-The untouched, fancy checkering on the stock

-It’s tiny action. I hard to tell in the pictures, but its perfectly scaled to the gauge.

-It’s condition. Other than the extension on the stock (and maybe a bit of oil on the wood), this gun has not been messed with. Sure it has some dings and wear, but every one was put there

BTW: Remember, this gun is for sale. If you would like to know more about it, drop me an email: gregg@dogsanddoubles.com

Westley Richards’ brilliant Anson & Deeley design …

December 26, 2016 by Gregg

Many of you know Simon Clode, the Chairman & Managing Director of Westley Richards, passed away last week. In tribute to him, I’m putting up a series of posts dedicated to his great company.

Today’s, we’re covering one of Westley Richard’s huge contributions to the world of double barrel shotguns: The Anson & Deeley action. Patented in 1875, the A & D action was simple, rugged and easy to build. It was also revolutionary and one of the first successful “hammerless” shotgun designs created.

A: Hammer, shown forward in “fired” postion

Key parts of an Anson & Deeley boxlock SxS shotgun, from Finegunmaking.com, Steven Dodd Hughes

B: Mainspring, drives hammer

C: Cocking level, tips hammer into position when bbls drop

D: The spring with hold the trigger sear (E) in place.

E: Trigger sear, releases hammer when trigger is pulled

In the late 19th and into the 20th century, it was the basis for thousands of side-by-sides made throughout the UK and across Europe. After WW2, it even found its way to Japan, where it was used by companies like Miroku and the Sakaba (SKB) Arms.

Today, a handful of companies still make true Anson & Deeley boxlocks: Westley Richards (of course) a few British and European firms, and Connecticut Shotgun (see their oddly named “Christian Hunter“).

Beautiful shotgun, bargain price: 12g boxlock Gastinne Renette …

December 24, 2015 by Gregg

12g Gastinne Renette, Paris, Side-by-Side Shotgun

I love the American guns, but I hate the prices you have to pay for good ones. On most Parkers, Foxes, L.C. Smiths — especially the higher grades — you’re paying more for a name and its sentimental connections than you are for true quality.

But when you buy Belgian and French doubles, different dynamics come into play. You can pay relatively little money and get a gun that’s extremely well made. That’s the case with this Gastinne Renette. It’s a fantastic double, very high quality, and it looks like it’s in incredible original condition.

Gastinne Renette is one of Europe’s most famous gunmakers. They started building guns in the early-to-mid 1800s, and their clients included all sorts of aristocrats and noble types, including Napoleon III. I think they still had a retail shop in Paris up into the 1970s.

This Gastinne is an Anson & Deeley pattern boxlock with ejectors. It looks like it was built in Belgium, probably before WW2, and then retailed in Paris by the “maker”. This was a pretty common practice for a lot of the Parisian gunmakers, and for a lot of the “makers” throughout Europe.

12g Gastinne Renette, Paris, Side-by-Side Shotgun: A 12 ga shotgun chambered for 2-1/2″ shells. A very classic looking European shotgun with a straight grip stock. Very thin in the wrist area. Very tight engraving on the frame. Heavy deep relief engraved bolsters. The frame has most case color remaining. Typical of European style, the inset panel is in blue as is the trigger guard. Extensive high quality engraving with the classical long pointed lower tang. Bbl blue very nice also. Wood is good overall cond with typical hunting mars and dings. The buttplate on this is not separate but instead sculpted into the stock. Letters in gold are “J L F” towards the heal of the stock. A fine looking shotgun that would make a dandy hunting gun. Price: $ 2,100

A Westley Richards droplock: here’s what makes them different…

February 15, 2013February 15, 2013 by Gregg

In 1875, Westley Richards started building side-by-side shotguns on their famous Anson & Deeley boxlock action. Twenty-one year later, the company updated the A & D design with the famous Detachable Lock Action. Check out the pics below to see some of what sets these designs apart.

This first pic shows a regular Westley Richards Anson & Deeley boxlock action. Note the three pins on the side of the action. Those pins fasten the lockwork in place.

The next pic shows a Westley Richards droplock. See how the the three pins on those three pins are missing on this gun? That’s because the detachable lockwork on this Westley is fastened on plates housed inside the action.

A droplock Westley Richards, pic from Hallowellco.com

Here’s another pic of a standard Westley boxlock. Even though this shotgun is equipped with a hinged floor plate, it’s a fixed-lock gun.

Locks & action on a standard boxlock Westley Richards

This is a droplock with the floorplate removed and the left-had lock lifted from the action. See the plate to the back of the lock? That’s what the lockwork is mounted on.

Locks on a Westley Richards Droplock, pic from Hallowellco.com

In this final pic you can see the set of the locks dropped all the way out of the gun. You can also the plate that entire lock mechanism is mounted on.

Westley Richards Boxlock with Detachable Locks (Droplocks)

Another real nice 12 gauge Westley Richards Connaught…

January 30, 2013January 30, 2013 by Gregg

12 gauge Westley Richards Connaught Double Barrel Shotgun

I search Gunbroker all the time, and months can go by before I come across anything decent. Most of the time its the same old, overpriced stuff, search after search, week after. But then something nice pops up…

This 12 gauge Westley Richards boxlock is something nice, and it’s on Gunbroker.com right now. This side-by-side Westley is a Connaught model boxlock, and it was built on a standard Anson & Deeley boxlock action.

I think Westley Richards made the Connaught from the early 1970s into the mid 1980s. It was available in a Deluxe and Plain model. According to the seller, the one you see here is a Deluxe model ordered in 1973, delivered in 1975, used once in 1983, and then kept in storage until now. Overall, it looks like a real nice gun.

Gorgeous engraving on a Max Ern O/U double rifle…

January 22, 2013January 22, 2013 by Gregg

Engraving can make or break a shotgun. Done right, it adds to a double’s overall elegance and beauty. Done wrong, its gaudiness screams “look at me” and ruins the entire gun. On this Max Ern O/U double rifle, I would say that the engraver got it right. You can see more examples of Max Ern firearms here.

Good gun alert: a 16g Charles Daly Diamond Quality side by side…

November 26, 2012November 25, 2012 by Gregg

16g Charles Daly Diamond Quality Lindner-made double barrel shotgun

This super nice 16 gauge Charles Daly Diamond Quality side-by-side just popped up today on Gunsinternational.com. It’s is a Lindner-made, pre-war Daly and it looks like it’s in excellent original condition.

Lindner-made, Charles Daly side-by-sides are fantastic shotguns. Diamonds like this are elegant, extremely well made, and absolute top-quality.

If you’ve ever wanted one of these double shotguns, I would get this one right away. At $7,750, the price is fair. I bet it won’t be around for long.

Awesome Gun Alert: a super 20 gauge Charles Daly Regent Diamond side-by-side…

October 28, 2012 by Gregg

Wow – check out this 20 gauge Charles Daly Regent Diamond shotgun that just hit the market. it appears to be in excellent original condition. This side-by-side looks like it’s spectacular original condition. While it’s not cheap ($24,000), that price is pretty fair when you consider how rare and well made it is.

Regent Diamonds were the most “deluxe” of deluxe guns that Lindner made for Charles Daly (go to this post to compare it to a regular Diamond). The workmanship on them is absolutely top notch. Just check out how beautifully sculpted the action, fences and toplever are. Even though the gold on this one is a bit over the top, it’s well tastefully executed so that it helps make this a real elegant little gun.

Charles Daly 20 gauge Regent Diamond double barrel shotgun #2390:

Chamber: 2 1/2 “

Length: 26 ”
Chokes: IC/F

Lop: 14 1/2 ”

Pad thickness: 1 ”
Type of butt: Old English Pad
Drop comb: 1 3/4 ”
Drop heel: 2 7/8 ”

Cast amount: 1/8 ”
Cast: On
Weight: 5 lbs, 8 oz

Auction Alert: Fantastic Francotte 45Es at Julia’s, 10/2…

September 21, 2012September 13, 2012 by Gregg

12 gauge Francotte 45E Eagle Grade Double Barrel Shotgun

In 1875, Westley Richards introduced the Anson & Deeley double barrel shotgun and revolutionized side by sides. But even though an English firm invented the A&D action, I’ve always thought it was the Belgian and Prussian makers who perfected it .

One of these makers was Francotte. The Anson & Deeley doubles they made are some of the finest boxlock side-by-sides you can buy. Because of the crazy way people value things today, they’re also some of the best deals on the market.

20 gauge Francotte 45E Eagle Grade Double Barrel Shotgun

These three Francotte 45Es coming up at James Julia’s 10/2 auction are a great example of what I mean:

SCARCE FRANCOTTE 45e 28 GAUGE EAGLE GRADE GAME GUN WITH CASE

LIGHTWEIGHT FRANCOTTE 45e 20 GAUGE EAGLE GRADE GAME GUN

FINE FRANCOTTE 45e 12 GAUGE EAGLE GRADE GAME GUN

The 45E, or Eagle Grade, was the king of thebloxlock Francottes imported by Von Lengerke & Detmold. Their signature features were highly carved fences covered with game-scene & scroll engraving and a gold-inlaid eagle on the bottom of the action. On top of this, these guns were built with extras like intercepting safety sears, Greener-style crossbolts, replaceable hinge pins, side clips, and nicely figured European walnut. All the work on these side-by-sides was top notch, too.

28 gauge Francotte 45E Eagle Grade Double Barrel Shotgun

Back when these Francotte 45Es were imported into this country, they were one of the most expensive boxlocks in Von Lengerke & Detmold’s store. Their price easily exceeded just about all the American doubles. The same was true with their quality. In fact, I think these Francottes beat them all. Today, people aren’t willing to pay the say premium for them. Most guys will put down more for a mid grade Parker than they would for any of these Eagles. That’s a shame because they will not be getting a better shotgun.

Training wheels on a pair of Purdeys double barrel shotguns…

September 10, 2012September 9, 2012 by Gregg

Traditions die hard, especially in the gun world. When hammerless shotguns like this came on the scene in the 1870s, shooters had already been using hammer guns for hundreds of years. A lot of these people were unwilling to give them up.

Before the hammerless era, shooters used external hammers to cock their guns. They also used them as visual indicators: cocked hammers, cocked gun. External hammers also gave shooters the freedom to decock a gun, so if a shot wasn’t taken the gun could be returned to this “safe” position again. A gun could also be carried in the decocked position and then cocked right before the shot (like when a grouse flushed).

The new sidelocks and boxlocks coming onto the scene had none of these advantages. This made some shooters reluctant to jump into the hammerless shotgun future. So what did some makers do? In one instance, James Purdey & Sons simply combined the best of the old and the new. They made this pair of 12 gauge double barrels around 1879 and they’re part past and part future.

While they’re mostly modern (a barrel-cocking centerfire with internal hammers), the maker kept part of old school by adding “hammers” to the outside of the locks. These “hammers” are really cocked indicators. When the gun is ready to fire, they’ll tip back into the rear position and give the shooter that visual indication he expects. If the wants to make the gun “safe”, he can drop these “hammer” into their rest position and decock the gun. Interestingly, both of these Purdeys were made without safeties. You can see how a top safety was added to one of the guns at a later date, maybe to make the gun more handy for walk-up/rough shooting.

12 gauge Purdey Hammer / Hammerless Double Barrel Shotgun

Original Westley Richards case labels….

April 4, 2012 by Gregg

Westley Richard’s famous Anson & Deeley double barrel shotgun came out in 1875. Since then, it has earned a reputation as one of the most important shotgun patents ever developed. All three of these labels would have appeared in an old Westley case for one of their Anson & Deeley double barrel shotguns, just like you see here. The info on the last label is still sound advice today.