Fresh to market: One of America’s most famous SXS, just $250,000! …

Winchester Model 21 “Walter P. Chrysler” - 20ga - 28” - “CHRYSLER GUN” - As Featured on the Cover Of Ned Schwing’s Book “Winchester’s Finest” Model 21
Winchester Model 21 “Walter P. Chrysler” – 20ga – 28” – “CHRYSLER GUN” – As Featured on the Cover Of Ned Schwing’s Book “Winchester’s Finest” Model 21

Over the years, American gunmakers made a lot of shotguns for famous individuals. A few of the best known are:

These firearms are guns — and because of their connections to American history –much, much more. And it’s the “much, much more” that makes them so valuable (Roosevelt’s Fox sold for $862,500).

Winchester Model 21 “Walter P. Chrysler” - 20ga - 28” - “CHRYSLER GUN” - As Featured on the Cover Of Ned Schwing’s Book “Winchester’s Finest” Model 21
Winchester Model 21 “Walter P. Chrysler” – 20ga – 28” – “CHRYSLER GUN” – As Featured on the Cover Of Ned Schwing’s Book “Winchester’s Finest” Model 21

Along with those SxSs, there’s the one you see here. It’s Walter P. Chrysler’s 20g Winchester Model 21 and another of the holy-grail guns for collector’s of American shotguns. Ned Schwing knew it was one of the finest M21s made, and that’s why he featured it on the cover of a big about Winchester’s Finest shotgun.

Winchester Model 21 “Walter P. Chrysler” - 20ga - 28” - “CHRYSLER GUN” - As Featured on the Cover Of Ned Schwing’s Book “Winchester’s Finest” Model 21
Winchester Model 21 “Walter P. Chrysler” – 20ga – 28” – “CHRYSLER GUN” – As Featured on the Cover Of Ned Schwing’s Book “Winchester’s Finest” Model 21

Winchester Model 21 “Walter P. Chrysler” – 20ga – 28” – “CHRYSLER GUN” – As Featured on the Cover Of Ned Schwing’s Book “Winchester’s Finest” Model 21: This is a Custom Built by Winchester Shotgun that has pages of documentation – as you’ll note on the cover photo – it was featured on the cover of the Winchester’s Finest The Model 21 by Ned Schwing book – this shotgun is one of the finest pieces of Americana in USA Gun History – it is an honor to photograph and describe this fine shotgun – I was, in my lifetime, a Chrysler representative and it thrills me to have the opportunity to not only have sold and managed their products, but to offer this relic of history to the open market for the first time. The Chrysler Gun was used in many of the advertising pieces during its era and was noted for its fine scroll engraving and high quality black walnut – If you are a serious Winchester Model 21 collector and would like the documents emailed to you, just send me a note – I will provide. It has wonderful dimensions as stated on the Cody letter and is like new off the shelf in many regards. This shotgun is in 99% condition and would serve it purpose over pointing dogs or at the sporting club, equally. Price: $250,000

Winchester Model 21 “Walter P. Chrysler” - 20ga - 28” - “CHRYSLER GUN” - As Featured on the Cover Of Ned Schwing’s Book “Winchester’s Finest” Model 21
Winchester Model 21 “Walter P. Chrysler” – 20ga – 28” – “CHRYSLER GUN” – As Featured on the Cover Of Ned Schwing’s Book “Winchester’s Finest” Model 21
Winchester Model 21 “Walter P. Chrysler” - 20ga - 28” - “CHRYSLER GUN” - As Featured on the Cover Of Ned Schwing’s Book “Winchester’s Finest” Model 21
Winchester Model 21 “Walter P. Chrysler” – 20ga – 28” – “CHRYSLER GUN” – As Featured on the Cover Of Ned Schwing’s Book “Winchester’s Finest” Model 21

What if you married a 16g A.H. Fox to a Westley Richards?

Anglicized A.H. Fox, built by gunmaker Dewey Vicknair
Anglicized A.H. Fox, built by gunmaker Dewey Vicknair, picture courtesy Dewey Vicknair

Here’s something you have to see: Customizing a Fox with English flair

It’s a story from Shooting Sportsman magazine about one of the craziest gun-making projects I’ve seen. It’s also a testament to just how talented its creator — Dewey Vicknair — is.

Anglicized A.H. Fox, built by gunmaker Dewey Vicknair
Anglicized A.H. Fox, built by gunmaker Dewey Vicknair, picture courtesy Dewey Vicknair

Customizing a Fox with English flair

From the article: “This project started in much the same manner as most custom-gun commissions: an initial call from a client who wanted something unique, made to fit, lightweight and well proportioned. That last part is the main reason behind using a Fox as the starting point—because of the gun’s slender action bar and its almost perfect visual balance with the rest of the frame. The base for the project was a NIB-condition Utica-made Sterlingworth in 16 gauge…” Read more at Customizing a Fox with English flair.

Anglicized A.H. Fox, built by gunmaker Dewey Vicknair
Anglicized A.H. Fox, built by gunmaker Dewey Vicknair, picture courtesy Dewey Vicknair

To see more pics and learn more about everything Dewey did to this gun, check out this post on his blog: “Anglicizing” a Fox (#005)

Anglicized A.H. Fox, built by gunmaker Dewey Vicknair
Anglicized A.H. Fox, built by gunmaker Dewey Vicknair, picture courtesy Dewey Vicknair
Anglicized A.H. Fox, built by gunmaker Dewey Vicknair
Anglicized A.H. Fox, built by gunmaker Dewey Vicknair, picture courtesy Dewey Vicknair
Anglicized A.H. Fox, built by gunmaker Dewey Vicknair
Anglicized A.H. Fox, built by gunmaker Dewey Vicknair, picture courtesy Dewey Vicknair

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

Pre-Owned John Dickson & Son 'Round Action' SxS Double Barrel Shotguns
Pre-Owned John Dickson & Son ‘Round Action’ SxS Double Barrel Shotguns

Pre-Owned John Dickson & Son ‘Round Action’ SxS Double Barrel ShotgunsA pre-owned pair of 12 bore John Dickson & Son ‘Round Action’ Ejector Shotgun with 27 inch barrels at our New York Showroom. John Dickson & Son best quality round action ejector with double trigger and automatic safety. Price: $45,000 
Barrels
Barrel Length: 27 Inches; #2 GUN replacement barrels between 1937 – 1954
Chamber: 2 1/2 Inch
Rib: Game
Chokes: # 1 GUN – Right: 1/2 Left: Full; #2 GUN – 1/4(R) & 3/4 (L)

Stock
Length: 14 1/2 Inches
Bend: 1 5/8 – 2 1/8
Cast: Off 3/16 face
Grip: Traditional straight hand grip
Engraving
Description: Fine Rose & Scroll
Finish: Traces Case Coloured Finish

Other Information
Weight: 5lb 15oz
Case: Double leather with canvas conver
Date of Manufacture: circa 1934

MIDLAND GUN CO, BIRMINGHAM ENGLAND, BOXLOCK 410GA, S/S SHOTGUN
MIDLAND GUN CO, BIRMINGHAM ENGLAND, BOXLOCK 410GA, S/S SHOTGUN

MIDLAND GUN CO, BIRMINGHAM ENGLAND, BOXLOCK 410GA, S/S SHOTGUNCASE COLORED ACTION WITH SCROLL ENGRAVING, 28″ BBLS, 2 1/2, CHOKED MOD/FULL, RAISED GAME RIB, EJECTORS, DBL TRIGGERS, XXX MEDIUM DARK WALNUT, ST/SP, LOP 15″, 1 9/16, 2 5/8, 5LBS 4OZ, 98% ORIGINAL, VERY LITTLE USE! Price: $4,995
Chambers: 2 1/2″
Ejectors: YES
Condition: 98% ORIGINAL, VERY LITTLE USE!
Metal Condition: 97%
Wood Condition: 97%
Bore Condition: 97%
Barrels: 28″
Action: S/S
Triggers: DBL
Gauge: 410GA
Stock: XXX MEDIUM DARK WALNUT, ST/SP
LOP: LOP 15″, 1 9/16, 2 5/8
Rib: RAISED GAME RIB
Weight: 5LBS 4OZ
Chokes: MOD/FULL
Engraving: CASE COLORED ACTION WITH SCROLL ENGRAVING

Cole Custom Beretta Special 20 Bore OU Shotgun
Cole Custom Beretta Special 20 Bore OU Shotgun

Cole Custom Beretta Special 20 Bore OU Shotgun30″ barrels with flush mount screw-in chokes, ejectors, 6 lbs. 3 oz., 14 1/2″ LOP over a pad, 1 1/2 DAC, 2 5/16″ DAH, neutral cast, round knob grip, wide vent rib with mid-bead removed, single selective trigger, bone charcoal case colored action, highly figured select European walnut with oil finish, low lustre matt blue finish on barrels, lightly used condition with minor handling marks.  This is a Cole Gunsmithing custom gun on a Beretta barreled action but with Cole’s serial number.  Note, this is a field gun but as 30″ barrels are not available from beretta on field models, the barrels only are from Beretta’s sporting line.  A very attractive gun. Price: $4,500

Charles Osborne Model Boxlock Non Ejector SxS Shotgun Caliber 410 GA
Charles Osborne Model Boxlock Non Ejector SxS Shotgun Caliber 410 GA

Charles Osborne Model Boxlock Non Ejector SxS Shotgun Caliber 410 GAThis is a little gem of a 410 double built by London maker Charles Osborne.  We have been privileged to handle several guns from the R. B. Dunphy estate in San Francisco.  All the firearms are from the turn of the 19th Century.  This little gem has 27″ barrels choked improved cylinder, improved cylinder.  The length of pull is 14 1/4″ over the original wood butt.  The bores are bright and shiny with the left bore showing light staining around the chamber area.  The action is beautifully decorated in classic tight English scroll.  Both right and left action panels bare the Charles Osborne company scroll.  Some case colors remain on the frame as does blue on the top lever and barrels.  Great opportunity to own a 410 double from a London best maker.  Price: $2950

BROWNING SUPERPOSED 12 GA SUPERLITE OVER UNDER SHOTGUN
BROWNING SUPERPOSED 12 GA SUPERLITE OVER UNDER SHOTGUN

BROWNING SUPERPOSED 12 GA SUPERLITE OVER UNDER SHOTGUNMADE IN BELGIUM IN 1968.  BARRELS ARE 26 INCHES WITH A SOLID RIB AND CHOKED I.C. AND MOD.  95% CONDITION.  GREAT SHOOTER OR NICE PIECE TO ANY COLLECTION.  Price: $2,350
Condition: VERY GOOD
Metal Condition: VERY GOOD
Wood Condition: VERY GOOD
Bore Condition: VERY GOOD
Action: O/U
Triggers: SINGLE
Stock Comb: 1 1/2 ”
Stock Heel: 2 1/2 ”
LOP: 14 3/8 ”
Rib: SOLID
Weight: 6 LB 14 OZ

Wow. What a nice looking Beretta OU…

Beretta Cole's Special 20ga/28ga OU Combo
Beretta Cole’s Special 20ga/28ga OU Combo

Back when I first got interesting in nice shotguns, I played hooky from work one day to take a drive up to a little gunshop in Harpswell, Maine. At the end of dirt roadI drove by 3 times before I found it: Cole Gunsmithing.

This was the late 1990’s, and Cole’s was a small place then. They had 4-5 used shotguns for sale at the front of the shop (nothing really special), and out back a couple gunsmiths worked away on various projects.

Today, Cole Gunsmithing is one of the biggest Beretta dealers in the US. They have two shops — one in Harpswell, ME, and another in Naples, FL — and they offer a wide range of great guns, including Cole Customs.

Beretta Cole's Special 20ga/28ga OU Combo
Beretta Cole’s Special 20ga/28ga OU Combo

Cole Customs are upgraded version Beretta OUs, and most of the ones they sell today feature upgraded engraving and fancy stocks. But the one you see is one of the nicest looking models they ever offered. Its plain finished, color-case hardened action looks plain sexy, and the sleek straight-gripped stock adds to the affect, too.

Beretta Cole's Special 20ga/28ga OU Combo
Beretta Cole’s Special 20ga/28ga OU Combo

Beretta Cole’s Special 20ga/28ga OU ComboSerial # RC0105. Original owner. Lightly used upland gun. Gun is in excellent condition showing only minor handling marks. The high grade wood is beautiful receiving many compliments. Checkering is in perfect condition. Color CaseHardened Receiver. Includes two barrels. One 20ga. and one 28ga. custom fitted to the 20ga. frame.  Both are 28″ with 2 3/4″ chambers and bright and shiny. Five multichokes are included with each barrel. The gun weighs 6lbs. when used with the 28ga. barrel and a little less with the 20ga. Nice and light for upland hunting.  Two custom fitted wood butt plates are included. The one that is currently installed provides a LOP of 14 3/4″.  When the other butt plate is installed the LOP is 14 1/4″.  Other dimensions are approximately 1 3/8″ DAC, 2″ DAH. Price: $4395.

Auction Alert: 12g Winchester M21 Custom grade, 28″…

Winchester Model 21 "Custom Grade" Side-by-Side 12-gauge
Winchester Model 21 “Custom Grade” Side-by-Side 12-gauge

The Winchester M21: Uglier than a hairless dog and as balanced as a sledgehammer OR Marlboro-man handsome and eminently American. Whatever you think of these side-by-sides, one thing is for certain: collectors go crazy for the M21s.

Winchester’s Model 21 was first produced in 1931, and it was manufactured by them until 1993. In all, about 35,000 of them left the Winchester factory. Here’s one of them. This shotgun is on Gunauction.com now, and the listing ends onAugust 31, 2014 17:45:00 PT.

Winchester Model 21 “Custom Grade” Side-by-Side 12-gauge: It wears 28″ barrels, has 2-3/4″ chambers, and is choked Modified and Improved Cylinder (the choking is reverse of standard with the tighter constriction on the right barrel). The barrel has a raised solid matted rib with an ivory front bead and a silver metallic mid-bead. The frame features the Custom Grade style hand-cut scroll engraving and the gun has a gold plated single-selective trigger, automatic ejectors, and a non-automatic safety. The barrel and frame flats & breeching surfaces are factory engine turned and the rib panel is marked “Custom Built by Winchester”. The buttstock is of the pistol grip variety with steel grip cap and is fitted with a “Decelerator” pad (the original ventilated Winchester pad is included). The LOP measures 14-1/4″, just 1/8″ more than original. The forend is of the skeet beavertail configuration with ebony insert. The Model 21 was always a hand-built gun of the highest quality. When it comes to durability, strength, and ultimate reliability, the Model 21 stands peerless above all other American doubles.

Winchester Model 21 "Custom Grade" Side-by-Side 12-gauge
Winchester Model 21 “Custom Grade” Side-by-Side 12-gauge

Overall condition is quite good and this beautiful double retains nearly all of the original factory blue finish. I’d grade the finish at 98-99% with just a few minor handling marks. There is no rust or any pitting and all markings are sharp and crisp. The grade AA fancy walnut stocks feature very nice figure and are in generally very good shape. There are some handling marks, a couple of dents in the butt, and also a fine/tight crack running down from the upper tang. I believe this crack would be a fairly easy repair. The gold oval nameplate on the underside of the stock was originally factory engraved with initials but has been buffed to remove them. The mechanics are in perfect working order and the bores are excellent…mirror bright with no issues. It comes with a Cody/Factory Letter which confirms the configuration of the gun and indicates that it was shipped in 1973. Also included is a vintage Winchester takedown case which I believe was original to a Winchester Model 23.

Winchester Model 21 "Custom Grade" Side-by-Side 12-gauge
Winchester Model 21 “Custom Grade” Side-by-Side 12-gauge
Winchester Model 21 "Custom Grade" Side-by-Side 12-gauge
Winchester Model 21 “Custom Grade” Side-by-Side 12-gauge
Winchester Model 21 "Custom Grade" Side-by-Side 12-gauge
Winchester Model 21 “Custom Grade” Side-by-Side 12-gauge

Massive gun alert: a 4 gauge shotgun by A. Peterman…

Massive 4 gauge, A. Peterman, Philadelphia, Single Barrel Waterfowl Shotgun
Massive 4 gauge, A. Peterman, Philadelphia, Single Barrel Waterfowl Shotgun

Yeah, that’s right – a 4 gauge. The shotgun for the manliest man.

Back in the 19th century, 4 gauges guns were used for everything from big-game in Africa to waterfowl in US and UK. The 4s came in a number chamber sizes–2 3/4″,  3″ ,  3 7/8″, and 4″– and they pushed up to 4 ozs of lead. That’s a lot of shot. Today’s mag tens have 3 1/2″ chambers and push just 1 5/8oz– flabby babies.

With a 40″ barrel, this 4 gauge was definitely built for ducks, geese, and swans. It was made around 1870 by Abraham Peterman, a gunmaker/gunsmith working in Philadelphia 1850 to 1880 or so. Peterman had a shop next to John Krider – a famous American gunmaker and sporting good retailer. Krider was a big deal with prosperous clients. For Peterman must have been successful to have a free standing storefront next door. The shotgun here suggests why. Even though it’s a beast, it looks very well made. It’s in great condition, too, and the metalwork looks all original.

Massive 4 gauge, A. Peterman, Philadelphia, Single Barrel Waterfowl Shotgun
Massive 4 gauge, A. Peterman, Philadelphia, Single Barrel Waterfowl Shotgun

Here’s more about it from the seller:

A. Peterman of 151 Walnut St. Philadelphia 4 Gauge Hammer Shotgun with Damascus Barrel. The gun appears to have the original case coloring and brown finish on the barrels. The wood has had a coat of oil added at some point in time. I do not think it was sanded as the wood to metal fit is perfect. The barrel is 39.5 inches in length and the length of pull measures 13 and 3/8. The gun is in good working order and locks up tight. Price:$37,500

Massive 4 gauge, A. Peterman, Philadelphia, Single Barrel Waterfowl Shotgun
Massive 4 gauge, A. Peterman, Philadelphia, Single Barrel Waterfowl Shotgun
A 12 gauge shell loaded into a massive 4 gauge by A. Peterman, Philadelphia
A 12 gauge shell loaded into a massive 4 gauge by A. Peterman, Philadelphia
Walnut & Second St, Philadelphia, Circa 1871. John Krider was on the corner, Wm. Robertson and A. Peterman were next door.
Walnut & Second St, Philadelphia, Circa 1871. John Krider was on the corner, Wm. Robertson and A. Peterman were next door.
Frederick Courtenay F.C. Selous, Explorer, Hunter, with his 4 gauge percussion rifle
Frederick Courtenay F.C. Selous, Explorer, Hunter, with his 4 gauge percussion rifle