birmingham | Dogs and Doubles

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

July 31, 2022July 31, 2022 by Gregg

Exceptionally rare Charles Daly Diamond Quality 12ga Double Trap with many options and in fine overall condition: Very rare original Charles Daly Diamond Quality double trap gun. This is the only example I have seen in this configuration – made with 32″ barrels that have original ventilated rib. Gun made with original beavertail forend. Made with single selective trigger, auto ejectors, top safety, round knob pistol grip buttstock with cheekpiece which termimates with a ventilated pad and an extra 1/4″ spacer. Case hardened action is fantastically engraved with near full coverage scroll and game scenes as seen in the photos. Scalloped action with heart shapped checkering and tear drop carved behind action. Gun with unique serial number of 25,500! Overall, the gun remains in excellent condition. The barrels retain more than 95% original blue. Action retains about 60% of its original case color – perhaps more as it is obscured by the engraving. Forend is very good with a few minor handling marks and retains most of its original finish. Buttstock has had the comb altered early during the perido of use and retains most of its professional hand rubbed custom finish with a few subsequent minor handling marks. Checkering is well defined and crisp. Bores are bright and shiny. Mechanics are crisp and overall the gun is tight and on face. This is a very rare gun and the only one I have seen in this exact configuration. Obviously made for a wealthy and sophisticated American businessman of the late 1920s. The gun hasn’t seen that much use and remains in quite nice lightly used condition. Price: $14,500

Parker C Grade SxS Hammer 10 Gauge: Antique: Yes Manufacturer: Parker Model: C Grade Hammer 10 Gauge Serial Number: 6005 Barrels: 32 inches Triggers: Double Trigger Gauge: 10 Gauge Stock Comb: 2 1/8 inches Stock Heel: 3 inches Fore End: Splinter LOP: 14 1/8 inches Weight: 9 lbs. 7 oz. Price: $7,950

Parker VH 20 Gauge SxS made in 1928 30in barrels top collector: Collectors and vintage shotgun shooters, this is an all original and unmolested Parker VH shotgun with extremely rare 30-inch barrels and full chokes. Manufactured in 1928 with handling marks shown in the pictures, this shotgun is in outstanding condition. Experts and Parker collectors know that a side by side Parker 20 with 30-inch barrels carries and balances superbly. With spreader loads, this shotgun performs well in the field and in sporting clay venues. Due to its rarity, will increase in value. Price: $5,599

Arrieta 557 Sidelock 20ga SxS:Like new condition.Shotgun Gauge: 20 Gauge
Manufacturer: Arrieta Model: 557 Barrel Length: 27″ Chambers: 2 3/4″ Condition: Excellent Metal Condition: 99% Wood Condition: As described Bore Condition: New Barrel Type: SxS Action: Sidelock Triggers: Double Stock: English Stock Comb: Splinter Butt Pad: Checked wood Rib: Tapered concave Weight: 6lbs even Sights: Single metal Manufacture Date: 2000 Choke Left: Ic Choke Right: Cyl Engraving: Yes Extras: Snap caps Case: Yes. Price: $5,250

WEBLEY & SCOTT MODEL 700 – 12 GAUGE – EJECTORS – GREAT CASE COLOR – BRILEY CHOKES: Webely & Scott Model 700 made in 1975 in Birmingham, England. High condition of original finishes. Ejector barrels are 28″ and have been fitted with full assortment of Briley thin wall chokes (Cyl, Skeet, IC, LtMod, Mod, Imp Mod, LtFull and Full). Gun is tight on face with forend on / slightly loose without forend. No cracks to wood / no loose ribs. Mirror bores. Auto safety. Ejectors well timed. Weight of gun is 6 LBS 4 1/2 OZ. LOP is 14 1/4″. Drop at comb – 1 5/8″. Drop at heel – 2 3/8″. Shipping is $50. Price: $2,750

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.

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

June 26, 2022 by Gregg

Truly exceptional & finest quality fully optioned all original Parker 12ga A1 Special w/ fantastic Huey Case – Choice in every regard!!! Exceedingly rare all original Parker A-1 Special 12ga built on a #2 frame with 30″ original Peerless Steel ventilated rib barrels. Original beavertail forend is beautifully checkered and iron fully engraved. The receiver is full coverage “Invincible” style scroll engraved with game scenes – very rare on any A1 Special, this one with large Ruffed Grouse on bottom, Geese with Pointer on left, Pheasant with setter on right all surrounded by perfectly executed full coverage scroll. Barrels with scroll wedges at breech ends and frame with carved fences and carved pigtails on the bottom. Stocked with an exceptional piece of European Walnut and fantastically checkered as seen in the photos. Back end of the butt has a small Monte Carol and terminates with its original hardening Silvers pad. Housed in a magnificent Marvin Huey elephant hide and oak case. The case is custom fitted for this gun with accessories and is a remarkable work of art in its own right with a replacement cost today in excess of $5500! Overall, the gun remains in fantastic all original untouched condition. The barrels retain more than 97% original blue. Action retains a lot of the original case color, particularly strong on the sides, but percentage is hard to ascertain due to the full coverage engraving. Easily more than 50%, though. Stocks are beautiful, sound, and original and retain nearly all of their original finish with only very minor handling marks. The bores are brilliant and shiny, mechanics are crisp. Gun was not used very much. Case is near mint with only very minor rubs. Price: POR

Hartmann & Weiss of Hamburg SLE 410ga – The First 410 H&W Ever Built – Boss Style Forward Rib Forend – 27” – Magnificent Masterpiece: Scalloped Frame – Deepset Narrow Barrels – Gold Inlays – Magnificent Custom Build by the finest German Craftsmen Extant – Featuring the Deepest Case Colors with Bobwhite Quail and Woodcock – Tiny English Style Scroll – Slender Sleek Styling – Potentially the finest craftsmanship I have ever listed for sale on my page. Maker’s Case, Cover and Accessories – a Fine Shotgun like no other. Shotgun Gauge: .410 Gauge Manufacturer: Hartmann & Weiss of Hamburg Model: Sidelock Ejector Boss Style Serial Number: 96-410 Barrel Length: 27” Condition: As New Stock: English Grip Stock Comb: 1 3/8” Stock Heel: 2 1/4” Stock Cast: Cast off for right hand Butt Pad: Checkered Butt LOP: 14 1/4” Finish: Fine hand Rubbed Oil Weight: 5 lbs 5 ozs Chokes: M/F. Price: $205,000

F.LLI PIOTTI King No.1 28ga 28″ IC & F, Gold crest, Engraving by Contessa, 5#7oz, Factory leather case, EXC: Serial # 7466, Country of Origin Italy, Barrel Length (in Inches) 28″, Choke R IC(.008), Choke L F (F.025), Trigger DT (Double), Articulated trigger, Stock Configuration Straight Grip, Gold oval, Checkered butt, Forearm Type Splinter Forearm, Gold crest, Rib Type Matted Concave Rib, Receiver Finish Coin Finish Engraving Type King I fine Italian scroll with bouquets by Contessa, Gold crown on top lever, Piotti name in gold Other Options Factory leather case Condition EXC. Plus Condition Weight 5#7oz Dimensions 11/2 x 2 1/4 x 14 1/2 with 1/8 cast off. Price: $25,000

Miroku L-II 12-bore Boxlock English Stock like Browning BSS but BETTER: For sale is a super nice Miroku L-II boxlock. This sleek 12-bore features a classic Anson and Deeley type boxlock action made popular by the Birmingham, England guntrade. Miroku is the maker of the Browning BSS and this is a cousin to that gun. Basically, its the same gun made in the same factory by the craftsman with a different name on it… But this Miroku is much better finished! This Miroku was intended for the European market and was purchased by a military man serving overseas. These European offerings are much better finished guns than the Browning versions in my opinion. This particular model looks like the classic English boxlock. The color cased action is nicely shaped and beautifully hand engraved with well-cut scroll engraving. The 28″ barrels are well struck and are choked IMP/FULL… a classic English choke combination. They’re topped with a flat rib and are balanced by a walnut stock classically configured with straight grip, splinter forend, and hand-cut checkering. The butt is finished with a silvers recoil pad. This shotgun is in great condition. The bores are clean, and barrel walls are free from dents. The stocks oil finish is still good and the stock is solid (though it does have a repaired crack from fall on a quail hunt 15 years ago. Many hundreds of rounds have been fired since that time with no issue). As you would expect, the gun functions perfectly. The lock up is rock solid, and the trigger pulls are nice and crisp. This quality gun is ready to provide a lifetime of reliable use to it new owner. Maker: Miroku, Model: L-II, Barrels: 28″, Chokes: IMP/FULL, Weight: 6lbs 12oz, DAC: 1 3/8″, DAH: 2 5/16″, LOP: 14 3/8″ over silvers pad, Cast: appears to be neutral. Price: $1,950

H Monk SXS 12g Boxlock 28 inch barrels: This is a dynamite English Double!! It’s in excellent shape! DOC 1.5″ DOH 2.5″ Lop 14.25″. weight is 6.25 lb. Chambers are 2.5 inches barrels are 28 inches long. This is a light dynamic shotgun!! You can carry this gun all day and it’s a delight to shoot. Chocked IC and MOD. You simply won’t find modern guns arhat are this well made and this dynamic for ten times the price. Price: $1,150

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

May 1, 2022 by Gregg

PARKER DH #1 FRAME 12 GAUGE SxS VINTAGE AMERICAN SHOTGUN: #122924 #1 FRAME 30″ MOD AND FULL 2 3/4 019 AND 037 CONSTRICTION DOUBLE TRIGGER EXTRACTORS SPLINTER FOREARM PISTOL GRIP SKELETON BUTT EXCELLENT CONDITION WITH LIGHT WEAR 6LBS 12 OZ 2 7/8″ DAH, 1 3/4″ DAC, 14 1/8″ LOP. Price: $7,500

Very fine Webley and Scott Model 728 28ga SxS Boxlock Shotgun: These are high quality and dynamic guns – this one made with 25″ barrels that have checkered splinter forend that has Anson type push button release. Case hardened and engraved action is nicely scroll engraved with makers name on sides. Barrels with makers name on right tube and “Harrington and Richardson” on left. Blued trigger plate. Made with double triggers, auto safety, and auto ejectors. This gun made with straight grip buttstock that terminates with checkered butt. Overall, the gun remains in excellent lightly used original condition with nearly all original finish to wood and metal surfaces. The barrels retain more than 97% original blue. Action retains most all of its original case color. Stocks are sound and retain most all of their original finish. Trigger plate retains about all of its original blue. Trigger guard has toned at grip and retains about 1/2 of its original blue. Bores are brilliant and shiny. Mechanics are crisp. Price: $6,295

Parker VHE 12 ga. High Condition, 32″ Vulcan Steel Barrels SxS Shotgun: Choked modified and improved modified (.016/.023), 2-5/8″ chambers. Auto ejectors, single selective trigger, non auto safe. Locks up like new top lever well to the right. Quite an extraordinary example, the action shows nearly all the brilliant case color. The highly figured stock of distinctive rich grain and contrasting fiddleback has a capped pistol grip . An unusual broad comb measuring 1-1/2″ and 2-1/8″ heel makes this an ideal choice for sporting clays, live pigeon, etc. The length of pull measures 14-1/2″ over an original No-Shoc recoil pad. Wood to metal fit is perfect with nearly all the original factory finish. The barrels appear to have been re-blued showing a deep silky luster., Weighing 8 1/4lbs on a 1 1/2 size frame, heavy enough to shoot all day and sleek enough to feel just right between the hands. Price: $5,650

W & C SCOTT 12GA SLE W/30″ NITRO PROOFED FINE DAMASCUS BARRELS: CHOKED .014/.038, D/T, BALLGRIP, CRYSTAL COCKING INDICATORS, 2 3/4″ CHAMBERS AND PERFECT BORES. #73805. ANTIQUE. Price: $3,995

W & C Scott - The Bowood, SXS, Boxlock, 12ga. 28" Barrels Choked IC/M. — W & C Scott – The Bowood, SXS, Boxlock, 12ga. 28″ Barrels Choked IC/M.

W & C Scott – The Bowood, 12ga. 28″ Barrels Choked IC/M: Straight grip, leather covered recoil pad, splinter forend, double triggers, automatic ejectors, solid game rib, gold oval, scalloped frame receiver, nicely figured walnut with traditional English oil finish, case colored receiver with 80% coverage scroll engraving, gun remains in near perfect condition and appears to have minimal use, available for immediate delivery. 6 lbs. 6 oz. 15” x 1 ½” x 2 ¼” Price: $3,450

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

April 17, 2022 by Gregg

Stunning Cased Luciano Bosis 20ga Michaelangelo – Lutteroti made vacuum arc barrels & Gold trim and case hardened gun that is visually stunning: Made in 2003, this fantastic little 20ga Luciano Bosis is striking and visually appealing as well as being one of the best guns ever made. This gun, made with 26-3/4″ barrels, made by Lutteroti. The checkered forend with gold accent lined opener. Case hardened and gold lined action with makers name on sides in gold. Beautiful Circassian Walnut buttstock with drop points behind locks is checkered in point pattern through the wrist and terminates with a stunning skip line checkered butt. Housed in a dark brown leather case with stitched leather corners by Nizzoli, is lined in dark green cloth and has large Bosis paper label in lid. Case contains 3-pc walnut and brass cleaning rod with mop and brush, pair of Bosis marked snap caps, round oil bottle, and a small plastic box containing spare mainsprings, spare firing pins, and assembly tool. Overall, the gun remains near mint all original condition. It appears test fired but retains virtually all original finish to both wood and metal surfaces. Bores are brilliant and shiny. Mechanics are crisp. Case is excellent with only minor rubs. Accessories are all near mint. Price: $44,950

Ogden Smiths & Hussey Sidelock Ejector Best-quality 20 Bore Side by Side: An excellent condition early 1920’s Best London maker located at 62 St. James Street. Retains much of its original case color. The dimensions are, drop of 1 1/2 X 2 1/8 with a 14 1/2 inch length of pull to a checkered ebony plate 7/8 inches. Chopper lump barrels, 28 inches with 2 3/4 chambers, 1 oz. proof, choked .005 and .015. bores at .620 and 619, walls at .028 and .025. Weight at 5 lbs. 7 oz. would make a great walk up. upland bird, or quail gun. Price: $17,250

GARBI 103 A SIDELOCK 16 GA / SxS 29″ BBLS: Maker: GARBI, Model: 103 A, Gauge/Caliber: 16 GA, Barrel Length: 29″, Chambers: 2 3/4″, Rib Design:FLAT FILED, Weight:6 lbs 5 oz. Bore/Chokes: Right/Bottom:.665 / .010 / LM, Left/Top:.665 / .021 / IM. Stock Dimensions: Drop At Comb: 1 1/2″, Drop At Face: 1 3/4″ 4 1/2″, Drop At Heel: 2″, Cast At Face: 1/4″ OFF 4 1/2″, Cast At Heel: 3/8″ OFF, Length Of Pull: 14 7/8″, Pitch: 2″ / 4°. Special Features: CASE HARDENED HAND DETACHABLE SIDELOCK PURDEY STYLE ENGLISH ROSE & SCROLL ENGRAVING DOUBLE TRIGGERS EJECTORS EXHIBITION QUALITY STRAIGHT STOCK 9″ EXT SPLINTER FOREARM CANVAS & LEATHER FITTED HARD CASE MADE IN SPAIN CONDITION: EXCELLENT Circa:2004 / SERIAL # 27.03.022.04. Price: $14,995

BEAUTIFUL CASED PERCUSSION DOUBLE BARREL RIFLE BY JOSEPH BOURNE: Marked “London” on top of the barrel. Gun is in good condition with most original stock varnish. Checkered forearm and wrist shows very little use. Checkered style butt plate with most original bright blue. Patchbox on the side with an engraved deer that has turned a nickel color. Lock plates are marked “Bourne”. Nicely engraved with about 75% case color remaining. The trigger guard is engraved with most original blue thinning some. The 30 inch barrels original brown finish has turned to plum/brown and show a good Damascus pattern. Rifle bores are about 40 caliber and the shotgun barrel is about 14 gauge. Excellent bores. Complete with original ram rod. An interesting sight combination fixed to the top of the barrel. Also a retractable standing sight that slides the full length of the barrel. Barrel is marked in increments. Truly unique. The wooden case has compartments with various accoutrements. Also has a hand drawn map included. Beautiful outfit! Price: $8,500

J BLANCH AND SONS LONDON 12GA BLE EXCELLENT SCREW GRIP: A Dandy between the wars London made game gun. Nice sound wood. Strong well timed ejectors. Great barrels. Screw grip action. Lovely engraving. Locks up tight. In London proof. With leather case and cleaning tools. Unengraved stock oval. No issues. Price: $3,375

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

Auction alert: Excellent and Unique 12 gauge J&W Tolley English Hammergun …

December 15, 2018December 14, 2018 by Gregg

NO RESERVE, Excellent and Unique 12 gauge J&W Tolley English Hammergun

I’ve seen lots of hammer guns. LOTS. But this Tolley is totally new to me. It’s on Gunbroker.com now and it’s being sold at No Reserve. The listing ends tomorrow, 12/16/2018, @ 11:00 PM EST.

J & W Tolley, Gunmakers, was established around 1859 in Birmingham, England. They opened a shop in London in 1883, and in 1955, the final guns carrying the J & W Tolley name were made.

The double you see here was made early in the company’s history — around 1870 — and it has a couple unique features: the shape of its action and the way the barrels lock onto that action. Take a closer look at the pics to see what I mean.

BTW: Something else worth mentioning is how great this auction listing is. Not only are there a lot of pics, but the seller gives you a lot of info about the gun, including an outline of the gun’s flaws. A listing like this make me feel a lot better about bidding on this gun. I wish more sellers would follow this example.

NO RESERVE, Excellent and Unique 12 gauge J&W Tolley English Hammergun: 1870s era, game-scene & scroll engraved Hammer gun. Established ca. 1859, Tolley gained their excellent reputation building top-shelf big bore shotguns and rifles. 8 lbs. dead-on and built like a tank with heavy duty top lever, back action locks, stout hammers & oversized “Mushroom-cap” firing pins. Has a unique, hidden fastener system that has to be one of the earliest examples of a hidden bite as Purdey’s, (known for 3rd bites) didn’t offer theirs until the late 1880s. Another unique feature is the cut-away “I-Beam” frame which was likely an attempt to shave off weight or to stiffen it up. Never the less, it gives the gun a distinctive look. To top it off, there’s an odd protrusion at the underside of the muzzles – most likely to prevent damage. The Ivory bead is also unusual on a gun from this period. This is a real piece of British gun innovation – we’ve never seen anything like it from any maker. The Game-scene & scroll engraving is top-rate and also unusual for a heavy-duty gun from this era. With sculpted percussion fences, detailed hammer filing, fine Damascus steel barrels, this gun is as distinctive as it is classy.

EXTERNAL CONDITION: Looks like the gun was stored on a wall as one side is clean and shows quite a bit of original finish whereas the exposed side has what appears to be a light coat of cabin soot. NOTE: An expert cleaning of the duller side would likely reveal some very nice condition. The barrels have nearly all of their original Chocolate brown and fine Damascus pattern – Barrel lettering and proof marks are clear and sharp. The action and balance of metal show no evidence of polishing or buffing – everything is crisp and sharp and mechanically excellent! Barrels are an UN-CUT 28 3/16” (see pic of muzzles). Bores are very shiny with just a few light blemishes scattered throughout and we’d rate them a solid 9.5 / 10. Chambers are 2 ¾” with bores measuring R: .0736 & L:.731 min walls @ .733 / Choked: R: .011 / R: .007. The Horn capped ½ grip stock with “Gentleman’s” dimensions measures 14 ¼” x 2 ¼ x 3 ¼” drop at heel. Don’t snicker at these dimensions – the gun shoulders quite well and the boys back in the day were well known for their high percentages using these measurements. 8 lbs. dead on.

FLAWS: There’s a small nick on the top outside of the L bbl. a few inches from the muzzles at the 12:00 position that’s barely visible from the inside. There’s also a 1/8” long sliver of wood missing alongside the top-tang (easy fix) and somebody made a small & careful attempt to remove some of the soot from the right side of the stock, but only a small patch – but that’s it. Take a close look at the wood-metal & metal-metal fit and the nearly spotless breech-face showing very little evidence of firing – this gun is tight and crisp! Lock-up is solid, gun is on the face and barrels ring true – no loose ribs! All-in-all, here’s a unique example that’s built like a tank from a well respected Birmingham maker in excellent condition. Sure, it’s had the screws turned a few times, and the bores touched-up, but the overall excellent, lightly used condition and unique design make this an unusual and rare find!

Auction alert: Real nice 12g W & C Scott hammer shotgun …

August 28, 2018September 18, 2018 by Gregg

W&C Scott Best Sidelock Double; 1878 Birmingham Production/London Retailed; 12 Bore; 30" Damascus Steel Barrels; Choked: Modified & Improved Cylinder; LOP: 14 1/8" ; Cast: Noticeably Off — W&C Scott Best Sidelock Double; 1878 Birmingham Production/London Retailed; 12 Bore; 30″ Damascus Steel Barrels; Choked: Modified & Improved Cylinder; LOP: 14 1/8″ ; Cast: Noticeably Off

Back in the ’90s, most hammer guns were curiosities few people were interested in. But thanks to magazines like The Doublegun Journal and organizations like The Vintagers, these old SxSs became the must-have doubles everyone wanted. Old ones that wouldn’t have brought $500 in 1995 were selling for $2,500 by 2005.

As a result, gun dealers grabbed every hammer gun they could find, slapped a high price on it, and made money. So today harder than ever to find nice, original hammer guns at decent prices. That being said, the W & C Scott sidelock SxS hammergun you see here appears to just that – nice, original and, because it’s a no-reserve auction, fairly priced.

When this gun was made, W & C Scott’s best-quality gun was The Premier Gun. This isn’t a Premier. Instead, it’s a high-quality, hand built, medium-grade gun. It’s on Gunbroker.com now and the listing ends on 8/30/2018 @ 9:31 PM, EST.

W&C Scott Best Sidelock Double; 1878 Birmingham Production/London Retailed; 12 Bore; 30″ Damascus Steel Barrels; Choked: Modified & Improved Cylinder; LOP: 14 1/8″ ; Cast: Noticeably Off

Beautiful W&C Scott Sidelock Double that was was manufactured at the Birmingham works in 1878 for retail through Scott’s London storefront. A bespoke piece with features, dimensions and appointments tailored to order, the gun features 30″, twin-beaded, browned Damascus barrels joined by a solid rib, manual extractor, wonderfully figured English Walnut pistol grip stock capped with a checkered buttplate of horn, and embellishment in the form of 70% engraving coverage. Brilliantly performed by one of the era’s finest artists, the engraving consists of classic, English vine-and-scroll highlighted by a Spaniel and Setter on either flank, each dog chasing an egret and a pheasant, respectively. The engraving extends to both the barrel and bolsters, while the blued trigger guard is adorned with a matching game bird. Wonderfully finished and in a remarkable state of preservation, the gun has seen no restoration, refinish or refreshing, with unfaded engraving, vivid Damascus star patterns on the barrel, while the receiver is awash in original case color. A wonderful find for the discriminating enthusiast, this Scott undoubtedly saw regular use followed by intervals of maintenance, likely by the original maker. Appearing ready for the field for decades to come, the gun locks up tightly, exhibits

bits superior balance and both bores are pristine. A true classic from a British icon, this all-original early W&C Scott Sidelock would be an outstanding addition to any advanced collection.

Condition

Very fine, the gun has seen no refinish, and retains better than 70% naturally softening case color on the frame and hammers, with the areas of selected bluing displaying almost no finish loss apart from subtle fading. The barrels have largely turned to a brown-tinged steel patina with 70% Damascus pattern. There is light oxidation along the outside of the barrels with rubbing around the muzzle-no rust or pitting is present on any metal surface. The markings are correct, with matching numbers on all components and no fading of the engraving. No import or export mark is present and the gun has not been reproved. The furniture shows light, consistent wear to the checkering and no cracks, chips, sanding or refreshing. Mechanically excellent, both bores are on the face, lockup is tight and the action is impressive. The bores are outstanding-clean and bright with no rust, pitting or oxidation.

Good gun alert: 12g Midland boxlock ejector …

August 23, 2018September 18, 2018 by Gregg

Midland Gun Co ~ 12 Ga. ~ SxS ~ Boxlock Ejector Shotgun

Here’s a double that just may be a fantastic deal.

The Midland Gun Co. was one of the many gunmakers who thrived in the UK in the late 19th and early 20th century. They were known for making sound shotguns at affordable prices. And that is just what the one you see here looks like.

From what I can tell from the lousy pics, it looks pretty original. The only thing that worries me is the mention of it being for “2 3/4″ shells only”. Judging by this gun’s weight, I would say it was nitro proofed for 2 1/2″ shells. So before you buy it, you should check that out. Also, be sure to get a 3-day inspection period on it and have a qualified gunsmith check it before closing the deal.

Midland Gun Co ~ 12 Ga. ~ SxS ~ Boxlock Ejector Shotgun: Price: $849.99

Caliber: 12 Gauge
Chambers: 2.75 in. shells only
Metal Condition: Good
Wood Condition: Very Good
Bore Condition: Very Good, shiny but signs of use
Barrels: 28 in.
Triggers: Double Trigger
Stock: Round knob pistol grip, checkered wood
Stock Dimensions:
13.75-14.5 in. LOP
Fore End: Checkered wood
Butt Pad: Checkered wood
Weight: 6 lbs 11 oz
Item Location: Fort Mill, SC

See how they prove inside the Birmingham Proof House…

September 26, 2017September 24, 2017 by Gregg

On the face? Birmingham Proof House series, Matthew Brown Photography

If you spend any time looking at old English and European guns, “proof” is something you’ll hear about.

In Great Britain and throughout the continent, state-recognized “proof houses” test every new firearm built in, or imported into, that country. Basically, they do this by trying to blow the gun up. If it survives. this process “proves” the shotgun, pistol, or rifle is safe to shoot.

The UK has two proof house: The London Proof House, founded in 1637, and the Birmingham Proof House, founded in 1813. Both are still proofing guns today.

With this series of pics, photographer Matthew Brown takes viewers into the inner workings of the Birmingham house and give us a rare look at one goes on throughout the proofing process.

Auction alert: SxS Webley & Scott Model 700 12 gauge, 28″…

June 14, 2016 by Gregg

Lightweight, Mid 50s Webley & Scott Model 700, SxS 12 gauge ejector gun, 28" bbls — Lightweight, Mid 50s Webley & Scott Model 700, SxS 12 gauge ejector gun, 28″ bbls

Here’s the kind of auction I like to see: A great gun, well described, and No Reserve. When the hammer falls, this side-by-side’s new owner will get himself a nice double and an even better deal.

Webely & Scott introduced the M700s in the 1950s. These rugged, reliable SxSs were entry-level shotguns and the company made thousands of them. Each was built on Anson & Deeley-style actions–one of the most reliable shotgun designs ever created–and used just-as-proven Southgate-style ejectors.

This M700 is on Gunbroker.com now and the listing ends 6/19/2016 11:00 PM. It’s being offered at No Reserve, so you could end up getting a heck of deal.

Lightweight, Mid 50s Webley & Scott Model 700, SxS 12 gauge ejector gun, 28″ bbls: Pre-war quality, lightweight Game gun with heavy (1 ¼ oz. proofs) and tight chokes. This is a great looking & unusual gun: A 28”, 6 lb. 6 oz. gun with heavy proofs. Barrels in proof: L. .728 R. .728 ChokesL L .039 (Extra full) R .028(Light Full). Classic features include highly figured oil finished wood with fine flat-top checkering, checkered butt, and really nice engraving. Action retains nearly all of its classic British case colors, barrels about 85% of original black with excellent wood & checkering. Has no import marks and appears to be a special order gun given the extra nice engraving and wood. Stock oval has fancy monogram dated 1955. 14 ½” LOP to checkered butt.

Good gun alert: a 12g William Ford Boxlock Ejector…

February 26, 2015 by Gregg

12 gauge William Ford - BLE - Side-by-Side Double Barrel Shotgun — 12 gauge William Ford – BLE – Side-by-Side Double Barrel Shotgun

Birmingham, England, used to be one of the world’s largest gunmaking towns. Thousands of people used to be employed by the trade there, and all kinds of makers had shops or factories in and around the city. William Ford was one of these makers.

William Ford rose to prominence in the late 1870s as a barrel maker, and by the 1880s he had his own shop/factory in Birmingham. I’m not sure when the side-by-side you see here was built, but judging by the fluid-steel bbls I’d say it was made in the early 20th century. From what I can see, this double looks like a good deals – if the gun is in proof and the bbl walls are sound (I like to see .o25″+ as a minimum in each tube). Be sure you find out before you close the deal.

12 gauge William Ford – BLE – Side-by-Side Double Barrel Shotgun: Price: $2,650

Shotgun type: SxS
Action: Boxlock
Ejectors: Yes
Trigger: Double
Grip: Straight Grip
Forend: Checkered
Lop: 14 1/2 ”
Pad thickness: 0.5 ”
Type of butt: Leather Covered Pad
Drop comb: 1 3/8 ”
Drop heel: 2 1/4 ”

Cast amount: 3/16 ”
Cast: OFF
Weight: 6 lbs, 10 oz

Chamber: 2 3/4 ”
Length: 28 ”
Chokes: Skeet 1 and 2
Rib type: Concave

Manufactured in: England
Overall condition: Very Good
Stock condition: Very Good
Metal condition: Very Good

Stock: Original finish
Metal: Original finish
Type of Case: Leather Luggage Case

Good gun alert: a nice looking 16g Webley & Scott Model 700…

November 14, 2014November 13, 2014 by Gregg

I’ve raved about Webley & Scott’s Model 700 shotguns a bunch of times. Rugged and dependable, the M700 was introduced in the 1950s as an entry-level shotgun and it went of to become one of the most popular side-by-sides ever made. While 12 gauge Model 700s are easy to find, 16 gauges are not. The one you see here is on Gunbroker.com now and the auction ends on 11/16/2014 3:07:58 PM ET.

The Brits were never big fans of 16s. But here in the US, a small number of upland hunters have preferred them. Sixteens tend to weigh less than twelves, and they push more than enough lead to drop any grouse, woodcock, or quail.

Webley & Scott model 700E 16ga M/F: Scarce 16 gauge English shotgun by Webley and Scott Birminham England. Gun is 98% original finishes, tight as the day it was made. Nice color case frame and perfect dent free barrels with bright bores. Factory marked 2 3/4 chambers proofed for 3 1/4 tons ejectors are timed and work flawlessly. Wood is a nice grade of English walnut, double triggers 14 1/2 over checkered but. 1 3/8 comb 2 1/8 heal. slight cast for right hand shooter. Auto safety 6lbs-1/4 oz Chokes are .011/.035 both bores are .662.

Manufacturer:	Webley & Scott
Model:	700-E
Barrel Length:	28 inch
Gauge:	16
Capacity:	2

This week’s good guns: Powered by Gunsinternational.com…

October 20, 2014 by Gregg

PARKER BHE TRAP VENT RIB 12 GAUGE: #207XXX #1 FRAME 32″ VENT RIB FULL AND FULL 2 3/4 SINGLE SELECT TRIGGER EJECTORS BEAVER TAIL FOREARM ENGLISH GRIP EXCELLENT ORIGINAL CONDITION WITH CASE COLORS 8LBS 7 OZ X 2 1/4 X 1 7/8 X 14 1/2. Price: $16,500

ULTRA RARE 20 GAUGE WINCHESTER MODEL 21 TWO BARREL SET: Made in 1933 and everything letters. Both sets of barrels are 26″ in length, one set is imp cyl/mod the other is skeet/skeet. Winchester recoil pad. Overall this gun will go 95% on wood and metal. Price: $13,950

WEBLEY & SCOTT 12’s- SET of 3 EACH MOD 702’s- ALL- 28″ Bbls.- 1974- OVERALL in 88% COND.- STRAIGHT STOCK at 15 1/8: #143885 & 143886 & 144150, Webley & Scott, Birmingham: A Trio (3 each) of 12 Bore Game Guns in Model 702 Made in 1974 with 28″ Ejector Dovetail Lump barrels, #1 at .730 .012 & .038″ (Imp.Cyl. & Full), 2 3/4″; #2 at .730 .012 & .040″ (Imp.Cyl. & Full), 2 3/4″; #3 at .730 .009 & .031″ (Imp.Cyl. & Imp.Mod.), 2 3/4″; Standard concave game ribs, Nitro Proved at 3 1/4 tons per square inch, Double triggers, Splinter forend with an Anson release, Straight hand stocks at 15 1/8 x 1 7/16 x 2 3/8″ over a 1″ pad, Very slight cast-off for the right hand, All 3 right at 6 lbs. 9 oz., 90% coverage of period scroll engraving, The original barrel blue on all 3 would average out at 88-90%, The 3 average about 90% original bright & vivid case colors, The stock finish comes out at 88%, The checkering overall at 95%, Each gun has a leather cheek face installed for a right hand shooter, Every bore is bright & shiny and in excellent condition but there are a few very minor dings in a couple of the barrels, Each gun is numbered 1 – 3 in Gold on the toplever. These guns belonged to a very Sporting Lady in Spain and were used to shoot driven Red-Legged Partridge in Spain. You can buy all 3 for $5950, or we will sell the #3 gun for $2250. Price: $5,950

L.C.SMITH SPECIALTY 16 GAUGE FEATHERWEIGHT-ENGLISH STOCK RARE: sn218189E, Ejectors, Hunter One trigger, 26″bbls, choked sk1 and sk2. Mfg in 1914, one of only 691 manufactured between 1913-1950, and is even more unusual in the straight stock configuration.This gun is in excellent condition and would be a fine collectors piece and /or field gun. It shows light wear, has mirror bores, and the ejectors are in perfect working order. The stock is 141/4″LOP, cast off for the right hand, and is a nicely figured piece of wood with crisp checkering. The action is tight and there are double ivory beads on the barrels. An overall nice piece that will gain value and will be a pleasure to handle. Price: $5,600

Westley Richards Pigeon Side by Side 12GA 28″: Chokes (FULL/EXTRA FULL) barrels, case-colored action with single selective trigger. Prince of Wales pistol grip stock, splinter forend. About 60% of factory case-color hardening remains, minor bluing wear and handling marks in stock. Probably a live pigeon gun, tight bores and heavy barrels. Built between 1906-1915 . Sold without case. Price: $4,995

A nice 12g Webley & Scott Model 700 SxS shotgun…

September 29, 2014 by Gregg

12 gauge Webley & Scott SxS Shotgun @ Cherry's Fine Guns — 12 gauge Webley & Scott SxS Shotgun @ Cherry’s Fine Guns

New to side-by-sides and looking for a good buy? Then check out this 12g Webley & Scott Model 700 listed at Cherry’s Fine Guns (Scroll down-it’s near the end of the list.)

This twelve gauge is more than enough gun for upland hunting. For pheasants, you can load it up with 1 1/8oz of shot. If you’re after quail or woodcock, you go down to 7/8oz. And on a sporting-clays course, Winchester’ Featherlight rounds should work just fine (if this gun’s 2 3/4″ chambers are original – something to have checked out before you guy the gun.

Webley & Scott introduced the M700 in the 1950s as an entry-level shotgun and it went of to become one of the most popular side-by-sides ever made. Built on an Anson & Deeley-style style action with Southgate ejectors, they’re workhorses that can handle lots of shooting, season after season.

If this one is as nice and original as it looks, the price is very fair.

Webley & Scott Boxlock, 12 Gauge SXS Shotgun: With 28″ Barrels, Choked Imp.Mod/Full, 2 3/4″ Chambers, Barrels Very Clean Inside, 90% Soft Blue, Case Colors 98%, Wood Is 95% Oil Finish, Checkered, Straight Stock, Nonfactory Pad, Double Triggers, Auto Ejectors, Nice Gun. PRICE: $2,500

12 gauge Webley & Scott SxS Shotgun @ Cherry’s Fine Guns

Auction alert: a real nice 12g W & C Scott hammergun…

March 7, 2014March 7, 2014 by Gregg

12 gauge W. & C. Scott double barrel shotgun, 1885, incredible condition

Here’s another nice double barrel shotgun coming up tomorrow, 3/8, @ Poulin’s auction. It’s a W. & C Scott, with a ton of original condition and — amazingly — its original hang tag and case. W. & C Scott was founded in 1840 by brothers William & Charles, and their company went on to become one of the most important gunmakers in the world. In 1897, the firm merged with P. Webley to form Webley & Scott. Up until around WW2, Webley & Scott was one of the largest gunmakers in the world.

The side-by-side Scott you see here was made around 1885. It’s a mid-grade gun. Mid- and lower-grade doubles were usually used hard, so it’s incredible to see all the original color-case hardening, bbl brown, and oil finish. on this one. The gun is beautifully made, too. Just take a look through the pics at the bottom of this post to see what I mean.

The fact that this gun also comes with its original, handwritten hang tag and case with the dealer’s label is another plus. The gun was retailed by William Read & Son, Washington St, Boston, and I can’t believe both those items have made it through the last 129 years.

W & C SCOTT SxS HAMMER SHOTGUN: Cal. 12 Ga., 2 1/2″. S# 36941. Bbls. 30″ Damascus steel. Fixed full & full chokes. Top rib marked “W&C Scott & Son. Makers & Patentees. London.” Case colored bar lock action with low style, rebounding circular hammers. Fine foliate scroll engraving featuring a swan on the left lock. Double triggers. Extractors. Splinter forend, with Scott-patent, pull down release lever. Round-knob stock of hand checkered fancy English walnut. LOP: 14 1/8″ over original checkered buttplate. DAC: 1 7/8″. DAH: 3 1/4″. Stock is cast off. Weight: 8 Lbs., 1 oz. Minimum wall thickness L. .040 & R. .040.

CONDITION: Bbls. retain 85% original brown finish having spots of light freckling & showing vivid Damascus pattern. Locks retain 90% original bright case colors with applied lacquer. Action retains 70% original bright case colors fading to patina in carry areas. Stock and forend have good original finish showing light wear with a few light marks & scratches. Very good, bright bores. UNATTACHED ACCESSORIES: original W.C. Scott & Son hang tag, numbered to gun, featuring original specifications. Upper right corner of tag missing. Original case with William Read & Sons trade label. Case in poor condition. ESTIMATE: $3000-4500

Original Hang Tag for 12 gauge W. & C. Scott double barrel shotgun, 1885

Original case for W. & C. Scott shotgun, provided by retailer

Original William Read & Sons case label for W. & C. Scott shotgun

Auction alert: a nice looking 12g Westley Richards Droplock shotgun…

February 7, 2014February 7, 2014 by Gregg

12 gauge Westley Richards & Co. Ltd Double Barrel Droplock Shotgun

Quinn & Farmer Auctions in Charlottesville, VA has this nice looking double barrel shotgun coming up tomorrow at their a 2/8 sale. I know there’s a lot of vital information missing from the listing, but if you live within driving distance, you may be able to make it over today to see the gun for yourself.

Here are the details on it. This info comes from the actioneer. And BTW, according to the pics the auctioneer provided, at least one of the sets of bbls was made in or after 1954.

12 gauge Westley Richards & Co. Ltd Double Barrel Droplock Shotgun: 90-95% original condition, true droplock. Two-barrel set, 28″ & 30″, marked 2 3/4″. Gun made between 1901-1908. Strong traces of case hardening on frame, checkered stock grip. Serial number 16967. Gold oval inlay on underside of stock with intials, “RD.” Top of frame marked with numeral “1” in gold. The shotgun is accompanied by its original leather case with name plate “ROBERT W. DANIEL/BRANDON,” with the name Brandon referring to Brandon Plantation. Serial # 16967.

What’s this 20 gauge Westley Richard’s little secret?

January 13, 2014 by Gregg

20 gauge Westley Richards Droplock Shotgun

Droplock Westley Richards shotguns are nice doubles, and they’re very collectible, especially in the smaller gauges. Most of the time, a 20 gauge will cost you at least $15,000 if it has any kind of condition.

So when I saw this little 20 gauge Westley Richards double barrel droplock shotgun on Gunbroker.com, I thought WOW – a deal! But after I took a longer look at the pics, I figured out why it’s priced so low.

Take a look at all the images. Then let me know if you can figure out what’s up with it:

20 gauge Westley Richards Droplock with a single trigger, straight-gripped stock, and 15″ LOP.

A couple great Greeners, both F25s side-by-sides in 28 gauge…

November 19, 2013November 26, 2013 by Gregg

W.W. Greener Facile Princeps Actio — W.W. Greener’s Facile Princeps Action

W.W. Greener made some of my favorite shotguns — especially the doubles they made on their Facile Princeps boxlock. The Facile Princeps was patented in 1880, four years after Westley Richard’s famous Anson & Deeley patent boxlock. The designs are similar, so much that they sparked a lawsuit — a lawsuit which Greener won.

The Greeners you see here are both F25s – the lower end of the medium-grade Facile Princeps offered by the company. As you can see, the design of the this model changed a bit over time. That being said, they were always very well made doubles.

W. W. Greener FH25 in 28 gauge SxS Shotgun

W. W. Greener F25 in 28 gauge SxS Shotgun: A rare gun with auto ejectors, 27″ barrels choked full & mod. LOP is 14 1/4″, English stock with well figured straight grip. 4-3/4 lbs. with checkered butt. Nice engraving with case. An unusual collector grade Greener. Price: $19,995

W.W. Greener F25 Facile Princeps 28 Ga. Double Gun: Serial #67177, 28 Bore, 27″ barrels with excellent, bright bores. This is a beautiful little gun built on Greener’s Facile Princeps non-ejecting boxlock action and exhibits almost no evidence of any past use. The ribbed barrels retain virtually all of the original blue with just a few hints of silvering at the muzzles and the frame, which is engraved with tasteful decorative flourishes and the “W.W. GREENER” ribands, retains a commensurate amount of the original vibrant color case-hardening (almost all of which remains on the breech faces attesting to the lack of use). Even the extractor still retains most of the original lustrous nitre bluing as does the Greener sliding safety on the left side of the wrist.

W.W. Greener FH25 Facile Princeps 28 Ga. Double Gun:

There is a small amount of silvering on the underside of the frame where it meets the forend and an unobtrusive and barely noticeable import mark on the water table. The checkered walnut forend and nicely figured semi-pistol grip buttstock have only some very minor handling marks and surface blemishes scattered about the original oil finish. The stock is proportioned for a lady or young adolescent and has a 13 1/2″ LOP with drops of 1 1/2″ and 2 3/8″ (small but not so small that the gun is unusable to longer armed individuals). About the only flaw worth mentioning is a slight proudness of the forend tip widow’s peak which would be very easy to rectify by a competent gunsmith. The gun is housed in its original Greener labeled, maroon baize-lined leather traveling case and comes complete with the original hang tag, Britannia metal oiler, a partial tube of Greener gun grease, various cleaning tools, and several gun rags.

The case exterior is quite scuffed and the included original leather security straps are flaked and broken but the case itself is still robust and fully serviceable. This is an absolutely gorgeous little 28 bore British double in almost flawless original condition, complete with the original case and accessories, and would make a stellar gun either for woodcock in the fall or simply just to look at in the gunroom. FFL or C&R. Price: $15,995

Real nice 16g & 20g Webley & Scott double barrel shotguns…

November 13, 2013 by Gregg

Webley & Scott Model 700 20 bore 28" barrels Made in England — Webley & Scott Model 700 20 bore 28″ barrels Made in England

I’ve written this before, but if Webley & Scott is the Ford of British gunmaker, the Model 700 is their F150 pickup. Introduced in the 1950’s, the rugged and reliable M700 was the double of choice for thousands of shooters in the UK and Europe.

But almost all those Webleys were 12 gauges. The Brits have never loved the smaller bores, and their gunmakers have never made 16s & 20s in great numbers. That’s one of the things that makes the side-by-sides you see here special. The other thing that makes them unique is their condition. Both of these SxSs look new – pretty impressive when you consider they’re at least 40 years old.

Webley & Scott 700 series 16ga with 30" barrels. — Webley & Scott 700 series 16ga with 30″ barrels.

Webley & Scott Model 700 16 bore 30″ barrels: This is great well balanced bird gun. I think 16ga Webleys with 2 3/4″ chambers are harder to find than the 28ga guns. 16ga, 30″ barrels, Imp/ Full (.008/.036), 2 3/4″ chambers, semi-pistol grip stock, 14 1/2″x1 1/4″x2 1/8″ and cast off, 6 lbs. Two triggers, ejectors, grooved stock end, excellent codition. Barrel blue is 99%, case colors 99 %, wood 97 %. Bores are perfect with no dents or bulges. Price: $ 3995

Webley & Scott Model 700 16ga with 30" barrels. — Webley & Scott Model 700 16ga with 30″ barrels.

Webley & Scott Model 700 20 bore 28″ barrels Made in England

Webley & Scott Model 700 20 bore 28″ barrels: High condition W & S Model 700 20 bore with rare 28″ barrels with 3″ chambers. Original Birmingham nitro 3 1/2 ton proof. Gun remains in proof. Little used. Game rib. Barrels have engine turned breech. 139xxx series made in Birmingham in the ’60s or ’70s. Lacquered original case colors. Original blacking. Slight wear at muzzles and sides of action from case. Shiny bores choked Skeet 1 right and Modified left. Double triggers. Pleasing wood and sharp checkering with a few marks. Blank oval. Checkered butt. Properly balanced gun. Weight approximately 5 lb 9 oz. Dimensions 14 5/8 x 14 1/2 x 14 3/4. Drop 1 3/8″ x 2″. Cast off 1/4″. Ejectors in time, no buggered screws! This is a nice, true English built gun. Price: $4795

Good gun alert: a 12 gauge John Harper double barrel shotgun…

June 17, 2013 by Gregg

12 gauge John Harper Boxlock Double Barrel Shotgun

When most Americans think about hunting in the UK, fancy estates, titles, and big bills come to mind. But not everyon in the UK was an aristocrat or rich. Everyday sports-people also found time for the field. When they did, they carried doubles like the one you see here.

This SxS is by John Harper, a gunmaker who used to be located in Birmingham, England. Harper opened a shop in 1902 and his business was in operation until 1975. From what I can tell, most of his trade was in good quality boxlocks, sort of the meat-and-potatoes of the English shotgun business. Doubles like these were great deals when they were made 80 years ago. Today, the same is still true.

Even though this shotgun has been on the market before, it’s still a great deal at its current price ($3,295).

JOHN HARPER 12 GA BLE: Serial # 14XX, circa about 1920’s. John Harper specialized in making guns for others such as James Woodward and W.R. Pape. An exceptional well kept light wgt (6.7 Lbs.), BL Ejector with 28″ barrels retaining 98% blue, mint, mirror bores choked IC / F, nitro proofed 1 1/8 oz, with 2 3/4″ chambers and rib extension with Greener x-bolt. The nicely scroll engraved receiver retains about 80% original case colors with the floor plate and TG 90% blue. The well figured, dark streaked SG / Spl wood with excellent crisp checkering shows only the most minor handling marks and retains 97% finish. Serrated original BP, vacant silver oval and push button FE release. An elegant collector/shooter. Price $3,295

Good gun alert: a solid 12 gauge Webley & Scott 700…

June 10, 2013 by Gregg

12 gauge Webley & Scott Model 700 double barrel shotgun on Gunbroker.com

If there’s a side-by-side that you could call the perfect starter double, Webley & Scott’s 700 is the gun. A basic boxlock built on the tried and trued Anson & Deeley action, 700s were made for decades.

They’ve always been great guns, and if you’re looking for a solid, reliable English shotgun that’s on the affordable side, it’s a great choice.

The one you see here, looks like it can be bought for $3,000 – a great price for a solid Birmingham boxlock in nearly-new condition. If this shotgun looks good to you, get on it now. The auction ends Wednesday, 6/12/2013 @ 12:07:43 PM ET.

Here’s more about it from the seller:

Webley & Scott 700 series 12ga 28″ barrels mod/full: in about 93% condition with a small area of freckling on right barrel. LOP is 15″ to front trigger w/ original Silvers pad. Case colors are strong.