How many records will be broken? Guyette & Deeter’s upcoming gun auction …

September 4, 2023September 5, 2023 by Gregg

Guyette and Deeter, Firearms and decoy auctioneers — Guyette and Deeter, gun and decoy auctioneers

It’s just days away — one of the most anticipated gun auctions of 2023. Guyette & Deeter’s September Fine Sporting Arms Auction starts next Monday, 9/11. If you’re into vintage doubles, you must check it out. It features all sorts of investment-grade shotguns — American, British, European — including the minty Parker Bros. .410 you see here.

**LOT 1: FABULOUS HIGH ORIGINAL CONDITION PARKER VHE 410 GAUGE SKEET GUN**

Guyette and Deeter stunned the gun world last winter when their February sale smashed several world records. Will they be able to repeat those results? Probably. The guns in their September sale are truly fantastic.

Monday, 9/11
September 11 & 12 Fine Sporting Arms Auction | Session One

Tuesday, 9/12
September 11 & 12 Fine Sporting Arms Auction | Session Two

LOT 1: FABULOUS HIGH ORIGINAL CONDITION PARKER VHE 410 GAUGE SKEET GUN: SN. 241395. Cal. 410ga. Made with 26” Vulcan Steel brls, 3” chambers, that have matted concave top rib with twin white beads. Rib without brl legend which is appropriate for this very late gun. Brl flats with SN, unstruck brl weight of 2lbs. 13oz., stamped “SKEET IN SKEET OUT”, and Parker overload proof marks. Left side of brl lug stamped “V GRADE .410 GA. / FOR 3” SHELLS”. Gun built on a 000 frame. The original slim beavertail forend is checkered in point pattern with lightly engraved and case hardened Deeley latch release. As is appropriate and original on 410 gauge Parker beavertail forends, this gun does not have the reinforcement bolt at the muzzle end. Casehardened boxlock action with zig zag border engraving and engraved “PARKER” at front of bottom. Watertable with appropriate lightening cuts, SN, “VH”, and “ILION, NY”, makers address. The blued long tang trigger guard with zig zag border pattern and SN at center. Gun made with original Parker SST, auto ejectors, auto safety. The nicely figured straight grip walnut buttstock is checkered in point pattern through the wrist and terminates with its original checkered butt. WEIGHT: 5lbs. 13oz. Bore Diameter: .412(Rt) .415(L). Bore Restriction: .005(Rt) .007(L). DAC: 1-3/8″. DAH: 2-1/4″. LOP: 15″.

CONDITION
Excellent and investment grade. Brls with more than 97% of their original blue. Forearm and buttstock are both excellent and sound, retaining more than 95% of their original finish with a couple of small areas of finish added for preservation and minor handling marks. Frame retains about 90% of its vivid original Parker case color with thinning at front of frame and on forend latch but mostly strong throughout. Trigger guard with about 90% of its original blue. Checkered butt is crisp and original. Ejector stop with original polish blue and faint original polish marks on breech ends of brls can be seen indicating this as a lightly used original Parker. Bores are bright and shiny. Mechanics are excellent. Choice and certainly investment quality! C&R.

FYI: The accuracy of these listings has not been verified by Dogs and Doubles. All information has been provided by the sellers. Buyers are responsible for verifying the physical condition and all specifications of the listed items. Dogs and Doubles recommends you and a qualified gunsmith physically inspect an item before purchasing.

#1 of 5 favorites at Guyette & Deeter this Sat, Feb 4th …

January 30, 2023January 30, 2023 by Gregg

Guyette & Deeter, Fine Sporting Arms AuctionFebruary 4 , St. Michaels, Maryland — Guyette & Deeter, Fine Sporting Arms Auction
February 4, 2023, St. Michaels, Maryland

The countdown begins. Guyette & Deeter’s Fine Sporting Arms Auction is this Saturday, February 4th. If you’re into fine doubles, especially Parkers and L.C. Smiths, you need to check out this sale.

Guyette & Deeter is a top decoy auction company. This gun auction marks the launch of their new firearms division and features dozens of SxSs by all the big names, including Purdey, Lefever, Westley Richards, Ithaca, Parker, Fox, and L.C. Smith.

Josh Lowensteiner is part of the team managing this sale. Here’s #1 of his 5 favorite guns coming up this Sat in Guyette & Deeter’s Feb 4 firearms auction. I’ll be counting down Josh’s favorites all this week, featuring #1 on Friday, the day before the sale. If you see anything you like, reach out to Josh right away.

Lot 51: RARE AND ICONIC L.C. SMITH A-3 GRADE 12 GAUGE SHOTGUN ILLUSTRATED PROFUSELY IN LT. COL WM BROPHY’S “L.C. SMITH SHOTGUNS” BOOK: SN. 205157. The A3 Grade was introduced to the line in 1895 as “The finest gun in the world for the money”. It was the highest grade L.C. Smith until the grade designations were changed in 1913. Made in 1906 with 30” Whitworth Fluid steel bbls, 2-3/4” chambers, matted concave rib and bbl extension with red mid and ivory front bead. Muzzles are nicely crowned and have bands of engraving as well as 1” scroll wedges. Breech ends of bbls have 2-1/2” wedges of scroll on tops and gold inlaid lightning bolts running through each and are hand engraved “Sir Joseph Whitworth Fluid Compressed Steel” / “Made to Order By the Hunter Arms Co. Fulton, NY”. Later factory replacement type-2 beavertail forend is finely checkered with fleur-de-lis ribbon at center and fully engraved banjo type roll release and sculptured iron. Inside of forend iron is hand engraved with scrollwork, SN and 1901 Lewis Ejector patent info. Bbl flats are nicely engine turned with hand engraved SN, bottom of tubes w/original Whitworth trademark stamps and forend lug stamped “A 3”. Masterfully engraved case hardened sidelock action is most certainly the work of Albert E. Kraus, employed from 1890-1945.

Lockplates are extensively engraved in intricate foliate scrollwork and hidden game scenes with a relief engraved Setter in an oval panel on left plate, relief Pointer in panel on right, and “L.C.Smith ” in a crescent forward of the lock pin on each side. Receiver body has similar foliate scroll engraving interspersed w/ bouquet flourishes and bas-relief vine and scrollwork at the fences. The classic Setter with fallen quail on trigger plate, synonymous with the L.C.Smith brand, is beautifully executed. Blued trigger guard is rose and scroll engraved with hand-cut SN at tang. Auto ejectors, “Hunter One -Trigger”, non-auto safety. Gold inlaid “S” in front of flat safety slide.

Beautiful straight-hand buttstock of richly figured dark-streaked European walnut is finely checkered with fleur-de-lis and ribbon patterns terminating with an aging “No-Shoc” pad. Buttstock and forend are most certainly a period of use factory replacements (post-1920) and have been on the gun for much of its lifetime.

WEIGHT: 7lbs. 14oz. Min. Wall Thickness: .029(Rt) .030(L) Bore Diameter: .727(Rt) .729(L). Bore Restriction: .036(Rt) .035(L). DAC: 1-1/2”. DAH: 2-1/4”. LOP: 14-1/8”.

CONDITION: Excellent. Bbls retain 90% of their factory restored blue, engraving slightly softened and a few small rubs on right tube towards the muzzle. Receiver retains 40%+ of its original case color. Factory replacement stock and forend are sound with minor handling marks and retain most of their rubbed finish. Bores are bright and shiny. Mechanics are crisp, trigger works well and ejectors are in time. This is an exceedingly rare gun and opportunity to acquire one of the most recognised and published A-3 Grades extant!

This exact gun is illustrated in ‘L.C.Smith Shotguns, LTC Wm S. Brophy, 1983 on the cover and pp 21, 47-49, 164-169, 187-188. Accompanied by a L.C.Smith Collectors Association research letter dated January 28, 2022, identifying this gun as being finished January 22, 1906 as one of only 17 twelve gauge guns total. No stock configuration nor shipping info is recorded but there is a notation “McR” at the margin of the ledger for this entry and likely indicates the owner at one time. Also accompanied by archival A & F records, kindly supplied by Griffin & Howe Research, indicating the gun, in its current configuration, was consigned to them by E.A.Thorne in 1960 and sold to H. Gordon Moore in 1961. Harry Gordon Moore, Jr. resided much of his adult life in Lynchburg VA. Mr. Moore was also the author of “Trigger Pullers: An Attempt to Convey the Art of Wingshooting,1976” a compendium of Moore’s articles on gamebird shooting, first published in Field & Stream, Outdoor Life, and The Shooter’s Bible. Note: Moore and Brophy were certainly literary colleagues in the Sporting Fraternity and a friendly loan of the A3 for Brophy’s book is probable. Charlie Hunter spent his lifetime in and around the Staunton – Lynchburg area and was undoubtedly well-acquainted with fellow sportsman Moore. Hunter likely acquired this gun from Moore directly or from his estate after his passing in 1992.

FYI: The accuracy of this listing has not been verified by Dogs and Doubles. All information has been provided by the sellers. Buyers are responsible for verifying the physical condition and all specifications of the listed items. Dogs and Doubles recommends you and a qualified gunsmith physically inspect an item before purchasing.

Online auction alert: 20g Beretta 686 Blackwing O/U Shotgun, MFD 2002 …

July 5, 2022July 3, 2022 by Gregg

Beretta Model 686 Blackwing J686180 20 Ga 3" Shells O/U Shotgun, MFD 2002 — Beretta Model 686 Blackwing J686180 20 Ga 3″ Shells O/U Shotgun, MFD 2002

When it combines to shotguns that offer a ton of quality and value, Beretta’s 686 line of OUs are had to beat — especially when they’re set up like the 20g Blackwing you see here. Lock Stock and Barrel Investments has it listed on Gunbroker.com right now, and the online auction listing ends next Sunday, 7/10/2022, @ 8:25 PM.

From what I can see, the gun looks like it’s built on the same action and design as other 686-model Beretta’s — but with one exception. The barrels feature an interesting ribless design. This must make the gun lighter than a standard 20g 686. It was probably a little less expensive for Beretta to build, too.

Here’s more info about this shotgun from the seller:

Beretta Model 686 Blackwing J686180 20 Ga 3″ Shells O/U Shotgun, MFD 2002: Serial Number: P19963B, Year of Manufacture: 2002 (BS date code), Gauge: 20 Gauge, 3” Shells, Action Type: Top-Break, Over/Under with Single Selective Trigger and Individual Ejectors.

Markings: The top tang is marked “P19963B / BLACKWING”, the bottom of the receiver is marked “MADE IN ITALY”, “BERETTA”, the Beretta logo, and “Blackwing”. The receiver has extensive scroll and floral engraving on the sides and the bottom. The trigger plate is marked “PATENTED”. The top of the forend iron is marked “P19963B”. The left of the top barrel is marked “20 GA. 3” – 28”” and at the chamber with “BERETTA – MADE IN ITALY / GARDONE VT”. The left of the top barrel below the top of the forend is marked “CAM 76” and “15.9” next to a proof mark. The left of the bottom barrel is marked “EXCELSIOR-HIGH STRENGTH ALLOYED STEEL / KG0.990”, “15.9” and with an Italian proof, the bottom of the bottom barrel is marked “28240 M”. The bottom of the monoblock is marked “P19963B” with two proof marks and “BS” date code. The right of the top barrel at the chamber is marked “BERETTA USA CORP., ACKK, MD. / MADE IN ITALY”.

Barrel Length: 28”, Vent-Rib, Choke: The bores are threaded to accept different chokes. The currently installed chokes are Improved Cylinder over Skeet. One additional Full choke is also included.

Sights / Optics: This shotgun is mounted with a white bead at the front of the ventilated rib. The top of the rib is checkered to reduce glare.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece checkered select walnut with a schnabel tipped forend, straight grip, straight comb, a plain brown recoil pad and an unmarked brass plate inlet to the toe-line. The forearm appears to have been refinished at some point. The sides of the buttstock show some faint lines. There is intermittent light bubbling in the finish on the forearm, notably along the upper left edge. The forearm also shows some nicks and scuffs through the finish. There are no chips or cracks. The checkering is sharp. The LOP measures 14 1/2” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. The drop at comb is about 1 3/8″, drop at heel is about 2 1/8″. The cast is about neutral. The buttpad is soft with light wear. The stocks rate in about Very Good-Plus overall condition.

Type of Finish: Blue & Matte Black, Finish Originality: Original, Bore Condition: The bores are bright. There is no erosion in the bores.

Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 95% of its metal finish. There are sparsely scattered little nicks and scratches on the barrel set and some light finish loss on the sides from contact with the forearm. There is light thinning on the leading edges of the receiver and on the lever. The trigger plate shows a slight plum hue. The screw heads range from sharp to lightly marked. The markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun rates in about Fine condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly including ejectors. The action locks up tight with no play. We have not fired this shotgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This shotgun comes in a black hard case with the previously mentioned choke and a choke wrench.

Our (seller’s) Assessment: The Beretta 686 Blackwing can be used for many many purposes. From shooting skeet with your friends, to hunting wild game, the Beretta 686 Blackwing are great shotguns to have. This one on display is in about Fine condition with bright bores and sound mechanics. This beauty has plenty of life left in her.

ATTENTION: The accuracy of this listing has not been verified by Dogs and Doubles. All information has been provided by the seller. Buyers are responsible for verifying the physical condition and all specifications of the listed item. Dogs and Doubles recommends you and a qualified gunsmith physically inspect an item before purchasing.

Online auction alert: 20g Belgian Browning Superlight, no reserve …

June 8, 2022 by Gregg

Here’s you chance to get a great deal on one of the best shooting OUs of all time: ultra Rare 1970 Belgium Browning Superposed Superlight 20GA English Stock. It’s on Gunbroker.com now and the online auction listing ends Sunday, 6/12/2022, @ 9:00 PM.

The Browning Superposed was one of the most significant shotguns designs ever created. Rugged and well made, it was one of the first high-quality, affordable over-unders made. Even though it wasn’t cheap in its day, it cost a far less than OUs made in the UK. Here’s more information about this Super Light model Superposed from the seller:

Ultra Rare 1970 Belgium Browning Superposed Superlight 20GA English Stock: Browning Superposed Superlight Grade I, Chambered in 20GA!! This Browning Superposed Superlight is one of the Grade I Configurations Built in the Famed Belgium Facility, Featuring a 26″ Fixed Choke Vent Rib Barrel Choked Full / Modified, Gorgeous Blue Finish with Grade I Scroll Engraving on the Receiver and the oh so Sought After English (Straight) Wood Stock!!

Auction alert: 1985 Browning Citori SUPERLIGHT 20Ga, No Reserve …

May 24, 2022 by Gregg

STUNNING! 1985 Browning Citori SUPERLIGHT 20Ga! 95% COND! Factory ENGRAVED!

Back when I was a kid, Brownings, Rugers, and then Beretta 686s were the classy OUs I dreamed about owning one day, and this 20g Browning Citori Superlight certainly would have been a shotgun that I fantasized about taking into the field with me.

It’s on Gunbroker.com now, and the online auction ends 5/28/2022 @ 8:15 PM.

The Browning Citori was the grandchild of the company’s first over-under shotgun — the Superposed. First offered in 1973, Citoris are still around today and over the last 50+ years they have come in all sorts of styles and models.

You can learn more about Browning Citoris here in this article from Shooting Times and also here on their Wikipedia page.

The one you see here appears to be in excellent condition. These guns usually weigh under 6lbs, so it would be a great upland gun. Here’s more information about it from the seller:

STUNNING! 1985 Browning Citori SUPERLIGHT 20Ga! 95% COND! Factory ENGRAVED!

A TRULY EXCEPTIONAL!!!! 1985 Browning Citori “SUPER-LIGHT” – FACTORY ENGRAVED!! Chambered in 20 GAUGE 2 3/4 inch ONLY!!!!!

Sporting a 26inch VENTED Ribbed barrel, OUTFITTED W/ the highly desirable INVECTOR CHOKE SYSTEM!!!! Finished off W/ a GORGEOUS “OIL FINISHED” (NOT THE EASILY MARKABLE EPOXY FINNISH) English style walnut stock & SUPER SEXY SCHNABEL fore-end!

Flaunting 95% CONDITION!!! !!! FROM 1985!!

IF THIS EXAMPLE WAS EVER FIRED, IT WAS LESS THEN A BOX OF SHELLS IF THAT!!

This is the VERY RARE & DESIRABLE “SuperLight” Model!!! Not the “Sporter” Model, the “Sporter” model is desirable as well, but nothing close to the “SUPERLIGHT“!!!

A quick way to tell the difference btw: the two is that the “SUPERLIGHT’s” WILL ONLY EXCEPT 2 3/4 inch shells! While the “Sporter” Model will except 3inch shells…
These “SUPERLIGHT’s” are OVER 1 POUND LIGHTER than their “Sporter” Model Cousin!!
Unlike today’s alloy framed & gloss finished Citori’s, this GEM is an ALL STEEL receiver and sports a gorgeous OIL FINISH that doesn’t show dings as ugly white scars the way gloss finishes do!!

This Citori SUPERLIGHT is in excellent condition! If it wasn’t for the very small handling marks near the receiver, I would rate this at 99%+. But in no way do these small handling marks take away from the beauty of this piece!

OVERALL:
If you are looking for a super classy upland shotgun THIS IS IT!!!
This is one phenomenal over/under by Browning – arguably the best model for upland bird hunting with its light-weight, gorgeous English stock & undeniably sexy schnabel fore end!!!

Online auciton alert: AYA 4/53 28g, No Reserve …

January 11, 2022 by Gregg

AYA No. 4/53 Double Barrel 28 Ga Shotgun, Beautiful! PENNY START

Here’s your chance to get a deal on a nice looking AYA. This one is being auctioned off on Gunbroker.com now with a penny start and no reserve. The listing ends Sunday, 1/23/2022, @ 11:00 PM EST.

AYA is one of Spain’s oldest and most respected gunmakers, and their No 4/53 is their basic boxlock shotgun. According to their site, “The Nº 4 is mechanically very simple, which makes it durable, dependable, and easy to service.” Here’s more about this SxS from the seller:

AYA No. 4/53 Double Barrel 28 Ga Shotgun, Beautiful! PENNY START! This is an AYA No. 4/53 double barrel shotgun chambered in 28 gauge. This gun rates at about 99.8%! This gun is absolutely beautiful. The metal finish is about perfect, with only the very TINIEST little scratch on the left side lower edge of the receiver. The case colors are perfect. It is equipped with ejectors. The 26″ barrels are also perfect with bright and shiny bores. The wood is excellent with one small repaired crack as shown on the left side of the wrist. The classic English straight stock coupled with the splinter forend makes this gun a quick handler. The chokes are IC & M. This gun is a box lock using the Anson & Deeley/ Westley Richards style of action. This gun was imported by American Arms Inc. This gun has seen very little use, and is absolutely gorgeous. Don’t miss this sweet shotgun!

Online auction alert: Spanish Armes de Chasse Armas Gil 20 Ga Sidelock SxS …

November 19, 2021 by Gregg

Armes de Chasse Armas Gil 20 Ga Sidelock Top-break Side by Side SxS Shotgun 28" & 30" Barrels, Cased — Armes de Chasse Armas Gil 20 Ga Sidelock Top-break Side by Side SxS Shotgun 28″ & 30″ Barrels, Cased

I’ve been chasing shotguns for decades now, but I still come across makers I know nothing about. Armas Gil is one of them, and this 20g sidelock by them is on Gunbroker.com is one of them. All I can say is that I this gun looks like a standard, entry-level Spanish sidelock and appears to be in very original condition.

It’s on Gunbroker.com now with no reserve. The listing end Sunday, 11/28/2021, @ 8:26 PM. Here are all the details about the gun from the seller:

Armes de Chasse Armas Gil 20 Ga Sidelock Top-break Side by Side SxS Shotgun 28″ & 30″ Barrels, Cased: Serial#: 28-03-009-01 Year of Manufacture: Circa 2003 Gauge: 20 Gauge Action Type: Top-Break Sidelock Dual-Trigger Side by Side Shotgun with Ejectors

Markings: There are two sets of the barrels that come with the shotgun. The first set which is 30” is marked “ARMES DE CHASSE GAME GUN. HARTFORD. NC 27944 No 28” on the top of the left barrel. The bottom of the left barrel is marked with a single star (indicating the barrel is choked full) and “159”. The left barrel’s flat is marked “20-76”, “ARMAS GIL”, features the serial number “28-03-009-01”, has Spanish proof marks and “1200 bar”. The bottom of the right barrel is marked “159” over three stars (indicating the barrel is choked modified). The right barrel’s flat is marked “20-76”, “1198”, has three Spanish proofs and “1200”. The bottom of the barrel lug is marked “28”.

The second set of barrels which is 28” is marked “ARMES DE CHASSE GAME GUN. HARTFORD. NC 27944 No 28” on the top of the left barrel. The bottom of the left barrel is marked with two stars (indicating the barrel is choked improved modified) and “159”. The left barrel’s flat is marked “20-76”, “ARMAS GIL”, features the serial number “28-03-009-01”, has Spanish proof marks and “1200 bar”. The bottom of the right barrel is marked “MG” and “159” over four stars (indicating the barrel is choked improved cylinder). The right barrel’s flat is marked “20-76”, “1114”, has three Spanish proofs and “1200”. The bottom of the barrel lug is marked “28”.

The top of the forend is marked “600” on the wood. The metal parts of the forend have rose and scroll engravings. The receiver and trigger guard are covered in rose and scroll engravings. The water table is marked “20-70”, “ARMAS GIL” and the serial number on the left side. The right side of the water table is marked “20-70” and features three Spanish proofs. The middle of the water table is marked “28”. The bottom tang is marked “No. 009-01”. There is a brass medallion on the belly marked “D”.

Barrel Length: The F/M barrels are 30” and the IM/IC barrels are 28”

Choke: The 30” set of barrels is choked Full on the left and Modified on the right. The 28” set of barrels is choked Improved Modified on the left and Improved Cylinder on the right. All the chokes are fixed.

Weight: 6 pounds, 9 ounces with 30” barrel and 6 pounds, 5.9 ounces with the 28” barrel

Sights/ Optics: The front sight on both barrels is a brass bead at the muzzle end of the rib. The ribs on both sets of barrels are serrated to reduce glare.

Stock Configuration & Condition/ Grip: The stocks are two-piece smooth wood featuring a checkered forend, checkered straight wrist, straight comb, and the rear end of the butt is checkered. The stocks have some light handling marks but they lack any notable defects. There are no chips or cracks. The checkering remains sharp. The LOP is 15” from the front trigger and 14.25” from the back trigger to the rear end of the butt. The approximate drop at the comb is 1.5” and 2.25” at the heel with the 28” barrel and the approximate drop at the comb is 1.5” and 2.25” at the heel with the 30” barrel. Overall, the stocks are in Fine-Excellent condition.

Type of Finish: Blue and Case Color

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The four bores are all bright and have no erosion.

Overall Condition: The shotgun retains about 98% of its metal finish. The shotgun has some light handling marks on its metal parts but lacks any notable defects, including both sets of barrels. The markings remain clear. The screwheads are serviceable. Overall, the shotgun is in Fine-Excellent condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The receiver features cocking indicators. The shotgun also has a side plate lever on the left side plate which allows the user to remove the side plates. The barrels lock up with no play to the receiver. We have not fired this shotgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box Paperwork and Accessories: The shotgun comes in a leather carrying case with green cushioning, two leather straps for securing the case, beige strap, a container for oil, a cleaning rod, a black leather container with the cleaning rod brushes in addition to a set of keys for locking the case, two metal snap caps, two yellow snap caps and four orange snap caps. The case has some light handling marks but it remains in Excellent condition. The leather straps have only light handling marks and remain in Fine condition.

See a short history of Holland & Holland, plus great guns ….

August 24, 2021August 22, 2021 by Gregg

Holland & Holland is one the UKs oldest and most famous gunmakers. In this video by TGS Outdoors, Simon Reinhold, Holts Head of Operations, talks about the maker and goes over some guns that came up in Holts 2021 auction.

See a short history of Holland & Holland, plus great guns .... — See a short history of Holland & Holland, plus great guns ….

Online auction alert: 20g CSMC RBL, No Reserve …

July 24, 2021 by Gregg

Connecticut Shotgun MFG. Model RBL Launch Edition 20 GA 28" Double Barrel — Connecticut Shotgun MFG. Model RBL Launch Edition 20 GA 28″ Double Barrel

Here’s your chance to get a deal on one of my favorite modern SxSs. Connecticut Shotgun’s RBL are solid, well made shotguns, and they’re built on one of the most reliable shotgun designs ever created: the Anson & Deeley boxlock action.

This 20g RBL Launch Edition is on Gunbroker.com now with No Reserve. It ends tomorrow, 7/25/2021, @ 7:59 PM. Here’s more info about it from the seller:

Connecticut Shotgun MFG. Model RBL Launch Edition 20 GA 28″ Self Opening Double Barrel

Make: Connecticut Shotgun Mfg. Co. / Galazan

Model: RBL Launch Edition

Serial Number: RBL000511

Year of Manufacture: 2005-2010

Gauge: 20 Gauge 2 3/4″ Shells

Action Type: Boxlock Side-by-Side SXS, Top Break, Dual Trigger Shotgun with Ejectors

Markings: The top of the right barrel is marked “CONNECTICUT SHOTGUN MFG. NEW BRITAIN CT. U.S.A.”, the top of the left is marked “RBL LAUNCH EDITION 20ga. 2 3/4”, each chamber and the top-rear of the rib have a foliate scroll motif. The left barrel flat is marked “511”, the right “RBL / PROOF”. The water table is marked “RBL000511” and “MADE IN USA MODEL RBL / CONNECTICUT SHOTGUN MFG. / NEW BRITAIN, CONN.”, the top tang is marked “RBL000511”, the bottom of the trigger plate is marked “RBL” on banner. The receiver, trigger plate, guard, base of the forend iron, and lever have beautiful foliate scroll engraving with fine matting in the negative spaces.

Barrel Length: 28”, Solid-Rib

Choke: The barrels are threaded for RBL choke tubes with Improved Cylinder installed on both barrels. Also included are Full, Modified, and Improved Modified.

Sights / Optics: There is a brass bead at the front of the rib.

Weight: 6 lb., 2 oz.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece checkered select black American walnut with a capped pistol grip, straight comb and serrated black hard rubber buttplate. There are some spots of dark discoloration on the pistol grip cap. There are a few marks on the top rear corners of the forend. The diamond on the bottom of the forend has some marks into the edges. The bottom of the forend has some wear on the rear edge with a tiny hairline crack on the right side, not even 1/8″. The buttstock has a few light compressions and a couple scuffs. There are a couple little tiny dings and a couple of hairline scratches, the most noticeable is on the left side by the heel. The checkering is sharp. The LOP measures 14 1/4″ and 13 1/4″ from the fronts of the triggers to the back of the pad, 14″ and 13″ to the back of the wood. The pate has some light wear. Drop at comb is approximately 1 1/2″, drop at heel 2 1/8″. The cast is about neutral. Overall, the stocks are in about Fine condition.

Type of Finish: Blue & French Gray

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bores are bright. There is no erosion in the bores.

Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 97% of its metal finish. The barrels, forend iron and receiver have very light operational wear on the bearing surfaces, concealed when assembled. There are a few light marks on the barrels and rib. The barrel has some faint mottled thinning and discoloration at the front, most noticeable on the bottom of the right barrel. The bottom tang has some little spots of dark discoloration and fingerprinting. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun is in Fine Plus condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly including the ejectors. The barrels lock up with no play to the receiver. We have not fired this shotgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Auction alert: 28g Arrieta – Orvis Uplander sidelock SxS…

May 31, 2021May 30, 2021 by Gregg

Amoskeag Auction Company has this great little Orvis / Arrieta Uplander in their No. 130 Featuring Fine Collectible Arms sale on Saturday, June 5, starting at 9:00 AM Eastern.

I’ve always liked these guns. I think they’re great looking birds guns and great values.

(BTW: Sorry I don’t have more pics to post, but the auctioneer only posted the two I’ve used here. Why? I have no idea.)

Lot 45. An Orvis Custom Uplander Sidelock Smallbore Double Ejectorgun by Arrietta

Lot 45. An Orvis Custom Uplander Sidelock Smallbore Double Ejectorgun by Arrieta: Serial #57-03-100-00, 28 ga., 28” barrels choked improved cylinder and modified with excellent bores. The barrels retain 99% original deep blue with some light border engraving at the breeches and tight matting along the rib. The locks and frame retain 98-99% original blue with very slight thinning and some small blemishes, the locks have multiple fine lines engraved around the borders with geometric patterns on the screw heads and hinge pin. The checkered straight grip walnut buttstock and forend are very good, there is a small hairline crack on each side of the forend at the frame and some lightly-added varnish on the forend and around the locks. The figure is quite nice and the butt has been skip-line checkered, the length-of-pull is 14 3/8” with drops of 1 1/4” and 1 7/8”. The gun also features double triggers, 2 3/4” chambers, the butt is cast-on, there are dial-style cocking indicators and the ejectors are robust. ESTIMATE: $2000-$3000

Lot 45. An Orvis Custom Uplander Sidelock Smallbore Double Ejectorgun by Arietta

Auction alert: a decent looking 20g A. H. Fox A grade…

May 5, 2021 by Gregg

Lot #1096: A H Fox Gun Co. A Grade Side by Side Shotgun

Alderfer Auction in Hatfield, PA, is holding a Firearms & Ammunition Sale next week on Tuesday, 5/11.

While most of the shotguns in the sale are semi-autos or pumps, there are few OUs and some SxSs, including a decent looking 16 guage Sauer and this 20 gauge Fox A grade–which looks like a good shooter.

Lot #1096: A H Fox Gun Co. A Grade Side by Side Shotgun: 20ga. 30″ bbls. 2 3/4″ chambers. IC/Mod chokes. SN 202360. 95% reblue finish on barrels shows light handling with small areas of light freckling and small area of oxidation 1″ from muzzle on under side of right barrel, good bores, gray with traces of case color full coverage engraved receiver, ejectors, checkered wood stock and forearm show light handling. LOP 14 1/4″ front trigger, 13 1/4″ rear trigger. Very good condition. 21-384. (C&R)

Auction alert: 20g Beretta ASEL O/U shotgun …

April 8, 2021March 14, 2021 by Gregg

Lot 112: Beretta model ASEL Over Under shotgun chambered for 2 3/4" or 3" 20 gauge: — Lot 112: Beretta model ASEL Over Under shotgun chambered for 2 3/4″ or 3″ 20 gauge:

Here’s your chance to get a great deal on one of the best bird guns Beretta has built. Connecticut Firearms Auctions has this Beretta model ASEL Over Under shotgun in their Spring Firearms Auction. The auction starts on Saturday, April 10, 2021 @ 1pm EST.

In the 1930s, Beretta introduced its first Over Under — or Sovroposto — shotgun. Beretta’s SO shotguns were sidelocks and they utilized the company’s version of Woodward’s low-profile, OU design.

After WW2, Beretta introduced a boxlock version of their SOs, These guns came in at least three models (ASE, ASEL, and ASEELL). They locked up like Beretta SO-series shotguns and ones made after 1960 came with Boehler Antinit steel barrels. Basically they were top quality doubles at more affordable prices.

This one looks like it’s in nice shape — even though some knucklehead ported the barrels.

Lot 112: Beretta model ASEL Over Under shotgun chambered for 2 3/4″ or 3″ 20 gauge: Serial: 16465 With code XII dating this to 1956, the 28″ vent ribbed and ported single bead barrels have been threaded with removable chokes. Chokes that come with this gun installed appear to be skeet and skeet. The receiver with single trigger is completely engraved and is dressed in a nicely checkered light walnut stock and forend. Bottom barrel ejector sticks otherwise overall condition is excellent with mirror bores and just a few minor marks from use. Ships to FFL and C&R only. Measurements: Bore Diameter @ 9″ from muzzle O= .627 U= .629 Wall Thickness @ 9″ from muzzle = .038 (Both) LOP @ Heel= 13 9/16″ LOP @ Toe= 13 5/8″ Choke: O=.625 U=.627 Drop @ Comb = 1 1/2″ Drop @ Heel = 2 1/8″ Weight= 5.4 lbs Estimate: $2,000 – $4,000

It’s official: Now is the time to sell your guns …

April 2, 2021 by Gregg

12g Fox Sterlingworth sold for $3,650 on Sunday, 2/7

At the start of this year, I had a feeling at the gun market was picking up again. I asked some dealers, checked with some friends, and they said they said the same thing: “Demand’s back!”

That’s when I put up this post:

It’s time to sell ! The gun market’s hot again …

A year ago, I wouldn’t have imagined this boxlock selling for more $4500. But guess what, it sold for $8000 a few weeks ago:

Griffin & Howe Boxlock shotgun built for the President of Packard Motor Co. Sold for $8,000!!

ALVAN MACAULEY “President of Packard Motor Co.” Griffin & Howe Boxlock

Guns aren’t the only things that are hot, either. The New York Times just reported that all sorts of collectibles are booming, from Rolexes to Nikes:

Here’s How Bored Rich People Are Spending Their Extra Cash. The value of collectibles — like coffee tables, whiskey, Air Jordans and Pokémon cards — has soared.

So if you’ve been thinking selling some guns, now’s the time to do it.

Turn them into cash today.

Wondering where to sell your guns — or any other collectibles — and how to get the best prices for them? I can help.

Learn how. Drop me an email at: Gregg@DogsandDoubles.com

Auction alert: AYA No. 2 sidelock 16g, NO RESERVE …

March 19, 2021 by Gregg

This nice looking 16g AYA shotgun is on Gunbroker.com now. It’s listed at NO RESERVE and the sale ends Wednesday, 3/24/2021 @ 3:21 PM EST.

The seller’s calling this side-by-side a No. 2, which AYA says is its “affordable sidelock double gun”. To me, it looks like a great grouse gun. It has a longish length of pull (14 3/4″) and it weighs just 5lbs 13oz. If I were bidding on it, I would ask for some more pics and info on it — specifically, I would want to see the proof marks, and I would want to know if the gun is tight, on the face and fully functional. I would also want to know if there are any issues with the barrels (bulges, dents, repairs).

I would ask about seller’s inspection/return policy, too. Sellers should give you 3 days to inspect a gun and allow you to return it within that timeframe if it has issues.

I’ve always heard good things about AYAs. Michael Yardley reviewed an AYA No. 1 for The Field back in 2008 and liked it. I guess the No. 2 is one step down from that gun.

AYA 16g No. 2 Sidelock SxS Shotgun: 28” barrels. 14 3/4 LOP. Choked at IC/M. 5 lbs 13oz’s. Balances and swings great. Costs 8k new ! FREE SHIPPING.

BTW: The same seller is also offering this 20g AYA No. 3, which is worth checking out.

Auction alert: Beretta 686 Onyx Pro, 20g & 28g two-bbl set …

March 12, 2021 by Gregg

Lot 113: BERETTA 686 ONYX PRO, SN U23336S

Here’s a nice looking Beretta 686 Onyx 2-bbl set. Jeff Dobson & Associates in Jasper, GA, has it in their upcoming firearms auction. The sale starts tomorrow, 3/13, @ 10 AM EST.

Lot 113: BERETTA 686 ONYX PRO, SN U23336S: 20 GA 3 INCH, 28 IN BARREL SHOTGUN & 28 GA 2 3/4 INCH, 28 IN BARREL, FIELD COMBO, 2 BARREL SET, 9 TOTAL CHOKE TUBES, WITH CUSTOM LOCKING CASE (CASE CODE 427), 28 IN BARREL.

Last minute auction alert: A nice looking 12g British boxlock…

March 6, 2021March 5, 2021 by Gregg

Lot 242: Charles Osborne Boxlock SxS Shotgun 12ga

If I had to name the best SxS bargain out there, I would say “12g British Boxlock Non-Ejectors”, especially ones like the double you see here.

Montrose Auction Inc has this one by Charles Osborne. It’s coming up today in their firearms auction, and if it’s good, shootable shape, it may be worth chasing.

Even those these guns are 12 gauges, most of them weigh around 6 3/4 pounds and handle better than a lot of American SxS costing many times more

Charles Osborne opened a shop at at 1 Litchfield Street, Birmingham in 1838. The company was around until 1957.

This side-by-side was probably made before WW1. It looks like a standard Anson & Deeley boxlock — which is a good thing. The A&D boxlock is one of the best actions ever invented.

Lot 242: Charles Osborne Boxlock SxS Shotgun 12ga: Serial # 59518 Good to very good overall condition. 2 1/2″ chambers, modified/full chokes, 14 1/8″ LOP. Barrel 30″.

On Ebay now: Boss & Co leather shotgun case, No Reserve …

February 22, 2021February 21, 2021 by Gregg

On Ebay now: Boss & Co, London, genuine leather shotgun case for 2-barrel set

I just put this nice, original Boss & Co leather shotgun case on Ebay. The auction started at $1 and there’s NO RESERVE on it. The listing ends this Wednesday, 2/24, @ 10:00PM EST.

Boss & Co, London, genuine leather shotgun case for 2-barrel set: Made for a 12g SxS with 2 sets of barrels. Good leather and stitching throughout. Missing 1 exterior corner bumper (see pics). No straps. Handle is tight & secure. Brass locking clasp work great (NO KEY THOUGH). Barrel compartments are 29” long. Stock compartment is 21” long.

Original or redone? You decide. A 28g Parker GHE Skeet ….

February 17, 2021 by Gregg

Parker Brothers GHE Skeet SXS 28g 26" — Parker Brothers GHE Skeet SXS 28g 26″

Welcome to another round of original or redone! I asked the same questions about this 20g GHE the other day. The answer was “all original”.

What do you think about this 28g Parker GHE SKEET gun?

At first glance, this old SxS looks pretty original. But when you look closer and do a little research, that changes.

Parker records show this double was made in 1936 with a beavertail forend, single trigger, 26″ barrels, and ejectors. The records also say it was made with an English-style straight-grip stock. As you can see, it now has a pistol-grip stock. Problem? Maybe.

Markings on the barrels that show the gun went back to Parker in 1937 for repairs. Did Parker restock it at that time? If they did restock, the stock looks barely used — unlike the barrels and the back of the triggerguard.

Turnbull Restorations confirmed they recolored the action. They may have reblued the triggerguard, too. The blueing on the barrels looks good, but it may have been redone (if you’re recoloring the action, why not reblue the bbls, too?).

That red bead on the front of the bbls is another head scratcher. It could be original Parker did offer those red beads as options back when this gun was made.

Regardless of originality this gun still hammered down for almost $26,000. Why? Because it’s scarce, and even though it’s not all original it’s still a nice vintage American double.

Online auction alert: 16g Parker VH, No Reserve …

February 15, 2021February 14, 2021 by Gregg

Parker Bros VH, 16 Gauge, 0 Frame, 26″ Barrels, No Reserve

I’ve always liked beat up, old birds guns, especially ones like this 16g Parker VH that’s on Gunbroker.com right now. This old SxS looks like it spent decades chasing quail behind a couple pointers and making memories.

While it has problems (like a stock that’s cracked in a couple places), the issues I can see can be fixed. If the barrels and the rest of the gun are sound, there’s no reason you can’t take this shotgun back into the field to hunt again.

Parker Bros VH, 16 Gauge, 0 Frame, 26″ Barrels, No Reserve: Sights: Front Bead, Choke: Improved and Modified, Chamber: 2 1/2 Inches, Stock: LOP: 13″ – 14″ (Dual Triggers), DAH: 2 5/8 Inches, DAC: 1 5/8 Inches, Weight: 6.0 lbs, Serial Number: 157060. Additional Features: Barrel, receiver, and forend all have matching serial numbers. Original factory buttplate. Automatic safety. Overall Condition: Good -Several small cracks throughout the wrist. Bore Condition: Good Finish Condition: Good Mechanical Condition: Good

It’s time to sell ! The gun market’s hot again …

February 13, 2021 by Gregg

Lot 5026: Early 20 Gauge Belgian Browning Superposed Shotgun with Case

[Absolutely nuts!] was what my friend’s text said.

He was talking about an early 20g Belgian Browning Superposed with case in Rock Island Auction’s last sale. The OU had just hammered down for $7,000 ($8,050 all in) against an estimate of $2,000 – $3,000.

High prices popped up throughout the sale. A This refinished 20g A.H. Fox Sterlingworth Ejector Double Barrel Shotgun sold for a total of $3450 (estimate was $800 – $1,300).

Lot 6626: A.H. Fox Sterlingworth Ejector Double Barrel Shotgun

And this Arrieta La Paloma Sidelock 28 Gauge Shotgun with Case brought $4,888 with the premium. Estimate? $2,750 – $4,250.

Lot 3092, an Arrieta La Paloma Sidelock 28 Gauge Shotgun with Case

Rock Island wasn’t the only place where prices were strong. On Gunbroker.com, this 12g Fox Sterlingworth sold for $3,650.

So what does this pop in demand mean? It means if you have guns (or gun-related items like cases), now’s the time to turn them into cash.

The market for many SxSs and OUs has been sluggish, especially for 12 gauges and shooter-grade guns. A lot of people have been sitting on the sidelines, waiting for interest to return.

From what I’m seeing, that interest is back, and it’s driving more demand — and higher prices — for these guns.

If you’re looking to sell and wondering about the best ways to do it, leave me a comment or send an email: gregg@dogsanddoubles.com.

Boss O/Us: shotgun on top, double rifle on bottom — Two Boss O/Us I helped a client sell: A .410 shotgun on top, a magnificent double rifle on bottom

I’ve advised people on how to get absolute top dollar for everything from high-grade Charles Dalys and Parker DHE Skeet guns to Woodward OUs and some of the finest (and most valuable) Bosses to hit the market in the last 15 years.

WOODWARD ROUND BODY OVER-UNDER SINGLE TRIGGER HEAVY GAME GUN — A super rare Woodward round-body OU. I helped a client sell it for top dollar.

On Ebay now: Abercrombie & Fitch lightweight leather shotgun case …

February 8, 2021February 7, 2021 by Gregg

Genuine leather Abercrombie & Fitch VC leather shotgun case. No Reserve. Ends Tomorrow, 2/9, 7pm EST

Made in England
Excellent leather and stitching throughout, no rot, tears, or funky odors
Handle is secure
Brass locking clasps work great (NO KEY THOUGH)
Barrel compartment measures 30” long, 1 7/8” wide at the muzzle, 2 1/2” wide at the breech
Stock compartment is 20” long
Set up for 12g snap caps

GO TO EBAY NOW TO LEARN MORE & BID. ENDS TUESDAY.

Monday, 9/11 September 11 & 12 Fine Sporting Arms Auction | Session One

Tuesday, 9/12 September 11 & 12 Fine Sporting Arms Auction | Session Two

Learn how. Drop me an email at: Gregg@DogsandDoubles.com

Monday, 9/11
September 11 & 12 Fine Sporting Arms Auction | Session One

Tuesday, 9/12
September 11 & 12 Fine Sporting Arms Auction | Session Two