droplock | Dogs and Doubles

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

July 24, 2022 by Gregg

BOSS & CO PAIR OVER-UNDER 12 GAUGE SHOTGUNS WITH EXTRA BARREL SETS: MATCHED PAIR; 29″ (1/A) & 26 (2/B)” BARRELS, GOLD LINE COCKING INDICATORS, 1/A BARRELS: IMPROVED CYLINDER AND MODIFIED, 2 1/2″, 2/B BARRELS: IMPROVED CYLINDER AND IMPROVED CYLINDER, DOUBLE TRIGGERS, EJECTORS, NON AUTOMATIC SAFETY, STRAIGHT HAND GRIP, GAME FOREND, LEATHER COVERED RECOIL PADS. A matched pair of sidelock ejector shotguns with new extra barrel sets. The original barrels (1/A) are 29″ nitro proved barrels with 2-3/4″ chambers, choked Skeet and Skeet and a ribless top. The new barrels (2/B) are 26″ nitro proved barrels with 2-3/4″ chambers, choked Improved Cylinder and Improved Cylinder and a ribless top. The tops of all barrels are engraved “BOSS & CO. 13 DOVER STREET. PICCADILLY. LONDON. W.” The extensions of the barrels that mate to the action body have “1” and “2” gold inlays. The action bodies are adorned with traditional rose bouquets and scrolls with coin finish. Both sides are engraved “BOSS & CO” and “PATENT 3307.1909”, engraved top levers with “1” and “2” gold inlays and “SAFE” gold inlay on top tang ahead of engraved and checkered slide safe on gun number 1. The actions are fit with double triggers protected by a engraved trigger guards, gold line cocking indicators and non-automatic safties. Well figured reddish brown European walnut stocks with checkered English straight hand grips, drop points and burgundy leather covered recoil pads. The straight hand grip is supported by a long engraved bottom tang with serial numbers in gold. Game forends with matching checkering, engraved forend tips with “1” and “2” gold inlays and Anson style push button releases. The exterior metal of irons near actions are engraved “BOSS’S PATENT NO 3308.1909”. 14-7/8″ LOP’s to burgundy leather covered recoil pads. The shotguns are presented in a pair oak and leather travel case with brass corners. Price: POR

Fabbri Extra SxS 12 ga: Fabbri sidelock SxS shotgun. This beautiful shotgun is a type: Pigeon: model: Extra, which was hand crafterin 1971 by, arguably, the best gun maker in the world, Ivo Fabbri. 12 gauge with 28” Bohler Super Blitz Steel barrels. The barrels are marked 1.320kg which is 2 lbs. 15 ounces and that is just what they weigh. The bores are both marked 18.4cm which is .726” diameter and again they measure just that. The right barrel is choked .016” (Modified) and the left barrel is .025” (IM). 2 ¾” chambers. The bores are mirror perfect. The raised, hand filed, solid rib tapers from 7/16” to ¼”. Single metal bead at the muzzle. The nicely figured stock has a 14 5/8” LOP from the front trigger to the end of the 7/8” Cole recoil pad. (The original Fabbri pad is in the case!). There is 1 ¼” DAC with 2” DAH and right-hand cast of ¼” at the heel and 3/8” at the toe. Up front is a matching beavertail forearm. Double triggers, automatic/selective ejectors, non-automatic safety. The gun weighs 7 lbs. 4 oz. and balances just on the back half of the hinge pin. Anson style push button forearm release. The barrel blue and trigger guard blue retain 99% original finish. The frames case colors are deep and dark with just traces of were on the outer edges. The wood has 97% finishes with a few light handling marks and a small “ding” at the toe along with a small rub spot on the left side of the forearm checkering. As all Fabbri shotguns, this is an exceptional piece of engineering. It is truly a “best” quality SxS shotgun in spectacular condition for being 51 years old! Price: $36,500

Truly Exceptional L.C. Smith Crown Grade 20ga with original hang tag – A&F gun in superb all original condition: Truly superb and all original L.C. Smith Crown Grade 20ga. Easily the finest example of this grade and configuration I have handled. Made in 1922 and shipped to Abercrombie and Fitch. Made with 28″ barrels, Hunter One SST, splinter forend, capped pistol grip buttstock with original buttplate. Accompanying the gun is the original hang tag from Abercrombie which shows the gun exactly as found today. Beautifully engraved with scroll and game scenes on sides and fantastically executed gold crown in top lever. Stocks show excellent grain and color and are sound.

Overall, the gun remains in excellent to near mint original condition with more than 95% bold original case color remaining. Barrels retain more than 97% original blue. Stocks are excellent with only minor handling marks, most notably a couple of old impressions but the right side of the top tang, but otherwise excellent to near mint with nearly all of their original finish remaining. Buttplate is near mint. Bores are brilliant and shiny. Mechanics are crisp and the gun appears very little used and very well taken care of. It comes with its original hang tag and LCSCA research letter confirming the gun as found today. This is a gem of a Smith small bore. If you like investment grade Amerian doubles – this is it! Price: $28,950

Westley Richards – Drop Lock, 98% Case Colored, Pre-War, 20ga. 26″ Barrels Choked IC/M: Proofed at 2 ½” and the chamber length remains 2 ½”. Drop Lock, patented single selective one trigger. Magnificent game scene and scroll engraving, side clip, third fastener, recessed checkered side panels, drop points, fleur-de-lis deluxe checkering, heel and toe plates, capped horn grip gap that is also engraved like the gun. Retains 98% of case color and blue, including on trigger and drop plate. Jeweled drop lock with interior hinged floor plate. Highly figured Turkish walnut, engraving is sharp like the day it was made. Gun remains AS NEW. Unused. Has all of its pre-war finishes. Truly an outstanding gun. 5 lbs. 7 oz. 14 ¼” x 1 5/8″ x 2 ½” Price: $26,995

ANTONIO ZOLI Expedition 12 GA OU Shotgun: Make ANTONIO ZOLI Model Expedition Serial # 252963 Country of Origin Italy Barrel Length (in Inches) 29-1/2 (75cm) Choke R/U IM Choke L/O F (Full) Trigger DT (Double) Stock Configuration Pistol Grip, Factory recoil pad Forearm Type Field Style Rib Type Solid rib Receiver Finish Casehardened Engraving Type Fine Scroll Engraving Other Options ABS case, 3″ chambers, Extractors Condition Near PERFECT Weight 7#1oz Dimensions 1 1/2″ x 2 3/8″ x 14 7/8″ with 1/4 cast off. Price: $5,000

FYI: 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.

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

February 28, 2021February 27, 2021 by Gregg

Pair of Westley Richard Goldname Scalloped Frame Droplocks SxS: Consecutive Pair 16×16 ga. x 2-3/4 Westley Richard Special. Steel Nitro Proof 3-1/4 Ton per Square Inch. 28” Low Tapered Concave Rib Marked; Westley Richards, 178 Band St. London. Gun Maker By Appointment his Majesty George Rexet Imp. No 1 choke left .024 right .010. No 2 choke left .020 right .011. 14-3/8 pull to checkered butt with heel & toe plates, 1-3/8 – 2-3/8 drop. Highly figured walnut straight stock. No cast of or on, good for right or left hand shooter. 6 lbs each, silver oval, auto ejectors, Westley Richards patent selective single trigger, auto safety with safe in gold. Jewel fin. droplocks & bottom of hinge plate. Drop locks gold inlaid L & R, compacted original maker. leather case with trade label & accessories. Factory letter, this pair made in 1910 Sr# 9503 & 9504. Fine condition no molested screws. mirro bores, 99% bluing, receiver 75% case color. Price: $26,950

W. J. Jeffrey & Co. ~ Double Express SxS Rifle ~ 475 Jeffrey: W. J. Jeffrey & Company of London. Double triggers with ejectors and auto safety. Stock shows scattered rubs and light handling marks, Very Good Plus barrel bluing, receiver offers only a suggestion of case colors. Solid boxlock action finely engraved with foliate patterns. .475 Nitro Express. Bore Condition: “Bright, Strong Rifling Barrels: 24 inch Triggers: Double Trigger Stock Dimensions: 14 5/8 Inch LOP Fore End: Splinter Butt Pad: Leather Covered Recoil Pad Sights: “One Standing, 4 Leaf Express Rear Sight. Blade Front. Price: $15,999.97

AH FOX XE grade 12ga 28″ #4 barrels, Mfg 1925: Serial # 30851, Barrel Length (in Inches) 28″, Choke R M(.015), Choke L F (.032), Trigger DT (Double), Stock Configuration Straight Grip, Checkered panels, Recoil pad, Forearm Type Splinter Forearm, Rib Type Smooth Concave Rib, Receiver Finish Casehardened, Engraving Type Ornamental Scroll with cameo game scene Engraving, Other Options #4 weight barrels, Metal has all original finish and is super nice, Wood has been professionally refinished with 3/4″ wood extension, Condition EXC. Plus Condition, Weight 6#13oz, Dimensions 1 1/2 x 2 1/4 14 1/2 with 1/8 cast off, Other Details Mfg 1925. Price: $13,500

AUG. FRANCOTTE 20 GA. GRADE 20E SXS: BLS. 27 3/4″ – CYL/FULL – 2 1/2″ CHAMBERS, SIDEPLATED BOXLOCK, CC 75%, ROUND KNOB SEMI-PISTOL GRIP, LOP 14″ OVER SOLID LEATHERFACED PAD, DOUBLE TRIGGERS, WEIGHS 5 LBS. 7 OZS., OVERBORED , MIN. WALL L.028/ R .022., LOCK UP BY DOUBLE UNDERBITES AND GREENER STYLE CROSSBOLT. SIDECLIPS. $4,500.

Beautiful lightweight all original Parker VH 16ga Game Gun with great dimensions: Gorgeous all original Parker VH 16ga made on a #1 frame in the 229k SN range. Made with 28″ Vulcan Steel barrels, splinter forend, double triggers, extractors, capped pistol grip and original Dogs Head Buttplate. Overall, the gun remains in very fine original condition with 95% original barrel blue, 70% original case color, 60% original trigger guard blue and 95% original stock finishes. Really a nice clean gun with bright shiny bores and excellent crisp mechanics. Price: $4395

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

December 20, 2020December 19, 2020 by Gregg

Parker GHE 410 SxS Shotgun: Curio/Relic: Yes, Serial Number: 239263, Ejectors: Yes, Barrels: 26 inches, Action: SE, Triggers: Factory Single Trigger, Stock Comb: 1.5 inches, Stock Heel: 2.5 inches, Fore End: Splinter, LOP: 15 inches, Weight: 5 lbs. 12 oz. Price: $37,500

Westley Richards – Best Drop Lock – 12 ga – SxS – Shotgun: Shotgun type: SxS, Action: droplock, Ejectors: Yes, Trigger: Double Grip: Straight Grip, Forend: Splinter, Lop: 15 1/8 “, Pad thickness: 0.75 “, Type of butt: Leather Covered Pad, Drop comb: 1 1/2 “, Drop heel: 2 “, Cast amount: 1/8 “, Cast: On, Weight: 6 lbs, 4 oz, Manufactured in: England, Manufacture Year: 1951, Finish: Case Colored, Overall condition: Very Good, Stock condition: Very Good, Metal condition: Very Good, Stock: Original finish, Metal: Original finish, Type of Case: Leather Motor Case Barrel info: Gauge: 12 ga, Chamber: 2 3/4 “, Length: 26 “, Chokes: IC/M, Rib type: Raised, Comments : Best Grade Droplock in very good condition. Includes original leather motor case. Price: $14,000

Beautiful high original condition L.C. Smith Pigeon Grade 12ga Game Gun with straight stock and modern dimensions: Fine early L.C. Smith made in 1897 with 30″ Sir Joseph Whitworth Fluid Steel barrels, splinter forend which is fully checkered, straight grip buttstock with original buttplate, double triggers, and auto ejectors. Beautifully engraved in early Pigeon Grade pattern with large pigeon engraved on rib extension as well. This is easily the nicest Pigeon Grade gun I have offered for sale in recent memory. The gun remains in fine all original condition with about 85% toned original blue, 95% wood finish, and about 1/2 of the original case color remaining. The buttplate is crisp and original. Stocks are sound and unbroken with beautiful checkering which is also original. Bores are bright and shiny, and mechanics are fine. Antique: Yes. Serial Number: 2458. Barrel Length: 30″. Chambers: 2-3/4″. Ejectors: Yes. Condition: Excellent and original. Metal Condition: Excellent and Original. Wood Condition: Excellent. Bore Condition: Bright and shiny. Barrels: Sir Joseph Whitworth Fluid Steel. Triggers: Double Triggers. Stock: Straight Grip. Stock Comb: 1-9/16″. Stock Heel: 2-7/16″. Fore End: Fully Checkered splinter forend. Butt Pad: Original Buttplate. LOP: 14-1/8″. Weight: 7lbs 8oz. Manufacture Date: 1897. Choke Left: .724 with .035 (full choke). Choke Right: .723 with .009 (Imp. Cyl). Minimum Wall Thickness Left: .025″. Minimum Wall Thickness Right: .024″. Price: $5895

AyA No. 2 sidelock 20ga shotgun: Like new AyA No. 2 20-ga shotgun. Minor handling marks. 27in Briley choked barrels(briley can make more chokes)perfect small bore upland gun. Serial Number: 283-99. Barrel Length: 27″. Ejectors: yes. Condition: Very good. Stock Comb: 1 1/2″. Stock Heel: 2 3/8″. LOP: 14 1/4″. Weight: 6lbs 1oz. Chokes: Briley. Choke Left: Mod. Choke Right: IC. Price: $4,200

Browning BSS 12Ga Sidelock New: Browning Model BSS 12Ga with Sidelocks. Silver with Engraving. Has 26″ Barrels. New, No Box. Price: $3,995

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

July 5, 2020 by Gregg

HARTMANN & WEISS BOSS STYLE OVER UNDER 410: 27″ SOLID RIB MOD AND FULL 3″ CHAMBERS, SINGLE TRIGGER, EJECTORS, BOSS-STYLE FOREARM, ENGLISH GRIP, CHECKERED BUTT, MAKER’S CASE, EXCELLENT CONDITION, 5LBS 5 OZ, 1 7/16″ DAC, 2 3/16″ DAH, 14 1/4″ LOP. Price: $135,000

WESTLEY RICHARDS 410 Hand detachable (droplock) SxS

WESTLEY RICHARDS 410 Hand detachable (droplock): Scalloped action ejector with 28-inch chopper lump barrels chocked full and full. C bolt dolls head, double trigger, splinter forend with Deeley & Edge release. Length of pull is 14 9/16″ to a checkered bull. Drop is 1 1/2″ X 2 1/8″ Condition is excellent, almost as new condition, with upgraded wood and it’s original Westley Richards case. Completed in 2011. Price: $65,000

Ithaca Classic Doubles 4E hard to find 28 Bore: This is a beautiful Ithaca 4E in the hard to find 28 Gauge. This Classic Double was hand made to order and have beautiful wood, ejectors and 30-in barrels choked IC & M. The lop is 15 1/8 in over factory pad to front trigger. It will make a fine addition to your collection. Price: $6,499

Westley Richards (LONDON) Best Quality boxlock 20ga. 5lbs. 9 ozs: 28″ tapered small swamp rib, IM/IC, DT’s, Ext. intricate 75% coverage R&S engraved,, fine checkered elegant English walnut 14 1/4″ LOP straight stock, 65% CC., 95% bbl. blue, light handling only, 1 5/8 DAC – 2 1/2″ DAH – 14 1/4″ LOP over factory buttplate – 5 lbs. 9 ozs. Very tight, mint bores. Price: $4,995

High Condition Parker VH 12Ga: In remarkable all original condition. Built-in 1922, this gun retains 98% of the original case colors,985 of the original barrel blue, and 98% of the original wood finish. The gun has 28″ Vulcan steel barrels choked improved modified (.030″) and full (.040″). The bores are mint and free of any rust, dents, or pitting. The wood is sound with no cracks or damage. A few very light handling marks are all that keep the wood from being 100%. The gun is built on a 1-1/2 frame and weighs 6-14. The stock dimensions are 141/4″ LOP over the dog’s head buttplate,1 1/2″ at comb, and 2 5/8″ at heel. The barrels lock up tightly and the top lever is to the right as it should be. This is a great example of the classic Parker. It is all original and would make a great addition to any collection. It would also make a fantastic dove or pheasant gun.VH grade guns are extremely hard to find in this condition because most of them saw very hard use. Nice enough to be proud off but not too nice to shoot. Price: $2995

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

May 17, 2020 by Gregg

WESTLEY RICHARDS BEST PRE WAR DROPLOCK DOUBLE RILE 9.3X74R: MADE 1921. STARTED LIFE AS A 400-360. REBORED AND REFINISHED BY WESTLEY RICHARDS. 26″ BARRELS WITH 1 STANDING AND 4 FOLDING LEAF SIGHTS. DOUBLE TRIGGER. EJECTORS. SPLINTER FOREARM. PISTOL GRIP. MINT CONDITION. HUEY CASE. WITH MAKERS LABEL. 9LBS 14 OZ. Price: $29,500

F.LLI PIOTTI Model King No.1 20ga 27″ LtM & IM, Fancy Turkish walnut, Factory leather case: Serial # 8891, Country of Origin Italy, Barrel Length (in Inches) 27″, Choke R Lt.M (.010″), Choke L IM (.020″), Trigger DT (Double), Stock Configuration Straight Grip, Gold oval, Recoil pad, Forearm Type Splinter Forearm with Piotii gold crest, Rib Type Matted Concave Rib, Receiver Finish Casehardened, Engraving Type King I Fine scroll Engraving, Other Options Upgraded fancy Turkish walnut, Factory Leather case, 2 3/4″ chambers, Condition EXC. Condition, Weight 5lbs 15oz, Dimensions 1 1/2″ x 2 1/4″ x 14 3/4″ with 0 cast, Other Details Mfg 1990. Price: $20,000

WESTLEY RICHARDS DROPLOCK 12- 32″ Bbls.- 1925 TOTALLY ORIG GUN (Except Pad)- “C” BOLTING w/ 3rd BITE- SCALLOPED ACTION- HINGED: #T8681, Westley Richards & Co. London: A Hand Detachable Modele de Luxe Ejector (Droplock) 12 Bore Completed in 1925 That Remains Totally Original Except for the Pad, 32″ barrels, “C” Bolting Dolls Head Third Fastener Rib Extension, Hinged cover plate, Scalloped action body, 32″ Ejector Dovetail Lump barrels originally proved at 1 1/4 ounce, The bores at .733 .015 & .042″ (Open Mod. & Full), Original 2 3/4″ chambers, Wall thickness on the right barrel at .033″ and .032″ on the left barrel, Rounded action body, Original factory Single selective trigger and so marked, Scalloped action back, Splinter forend with a Deeley & Edge release, Straight hand stock at 14 1/16 x 1 1/2 x 2 1/8″ over a cushy pad with a rubber face (We will install a 1″ pad soon), Nice cast-off for the right hand, Very nice 32″ barrel weight of 7 lbs. 9 oz., 90% coverage of very well cut scroll engraving, Nice wood with very nice color and contrast, This Droplock remains totally original except the pad, Original 85% case colors, Original barrel black is at 90%, The barrel striking remains perfect, Original wood finish remains at 82-84%, The checkering remains at 94%, The barrels inside and out look like the day they left Westley and remain excellent plus, The breech face retains 90% case colors. It is cased in the original leather trunk with the proper trade label and cleaning accessories. Here is a Droplock Westley that qualifies as an exceptional piece from the Golden Era between the 2 great wars. This is a nice piece with desirable 32″ barrels. Price: $13,850

Caesar Guerini Revenant Game 20GA 30″: Pre-Owned Caesar Guerini Revenant Game 20GA with 30″ factory choke tubed barrels, factory solid game rib. Nitride finished side-plates with highly detailed game scene engraving with scrolls and grape leaves, gold motifs and highlights; Boss style forearm iron with full coverage engraving, long tang. Factory non-selective single trigger, Purdey style pistol grip stock to factory removable butt plate, fully checkered round game forearm. Outstanding condition, demo fired only-very minor handling marks 98%+ condition. Includes case, chokes and tools. Price: $10,995

Connecticut Shotgun RBL 16ga. – 29”, AS NEW, “RESERVE” VINTAGE FIREARMS INC: Serial Number: RBL004829. General Specs: Connecticut Shotgun, 2015±, 16 Ga, Weight 6lbs 12oz, Chokes LM/M, LOP 14 3/4″, DAH 2 1/2″, DAC 1 1/2″. Many of you that enjoy shooting with the side by side shotgun are familiar with Tony Galazan’s well received RBL series of round bodied guns. The gun presented here is an as new RBL RESERVE series from Connecticut Shotgun Manufacturing Co. The RBL is a robust gun with excellent mechanics and a very appealing look with its bone and charcoal case colored receiver, gold plated triggers, and nicely figured walnut stock. This gun shipped with 29” barrels that retain 100% of their fine rust blue, perfect bores, choked LM/M. The metal overall retains 99.9% of the factory finishes, with the only wear of any kind at the safety on the top tang. The wood has a very nice figure and retains all of its original finish and perfect checkering. The gun balances dead on the hinge pin and has a very solid feel and comes to shoulder the way a fine side x side is supposed to. Galazan has a solid performer with his RBL. We have priced this gun to sell quickly, as I do not believe it has ever been in the field or used much at all. There is only the faintest hint of a primer ring on the standing breech indicating very little shooting. The RBL Reserve is a solid investment and will do you well on the sporting clays course or in the field. Price: $3,550

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

March 29, 2020 by Gregg

CG BONEHILL BLE Express .577NE Cased in O&L Like new condition Mfg 1903: Serial # 1550, Country of Origin England, Barrel Length (in Inches) 26″, Trigger DT (Double), Stock Configuration Capped Pistol Grip with English type cheekpiece, Forearm Type Splinter Forearm with lever release, Rib Type Level filed Rib with express sights (1 standing 2 folding), Receiver Finish Casehardened, Engraving Type Full coverage fine scroll, Other Options Massive action, Extended top and bottom tangs, Automatic safety, Flip up night sight, Front sight hood, Panels and drop points, Sling swivel rings, Silvers pad, Original oak & leather case with accessories, Condition Gun is near PERFECT unused Condition, case shows some wear, Weight 13#15oz, Dimensions 14 7/8″ LOp, Other Details Mfg 1903, Gun is in near new unused condition. Price: $49,000

Westley Richards – Best Droplock SxS – 12 GA: Ejectors: Yes, Trigger: Double, Grip: Straight Grip, Forend: Splinter, Lop: 15 1/8 “, Pad thickness: 0.75 “, Type of butt: Leather Covered Pad, Drop comb: 1 1/2 “, Drop heel: 2 “, Cast amount: 1/8 “, Cast: On, Weight: 6 lbs, 4 oz, Manufactured in: England, Manufacture Year: 1951, Finish: Case Colored, Overall condition: Very Good, Stock condition: Very Good, Metal condition: Very Good, Stock: Original finish Metal: Original finish, Type of Case: Leather Motor Case, Barrel info: Gauge: 12 GA, Chamber: 2 3/4 “, Length: 26 “, Chokes: IC/M, Rib type: Raised, Comments: Best Grade Droplock in very good condition. Includes original leather motor case. Price: $14,000

FRANCOTTE SPECIAL BOXLOCK SXS 28 GAUGE: 26″ MOD AND FULL 2 3/4″, DOUBLE TRIGGER, EJECTORS, SPLINTER FOREARM, ENGLISH GRIP, NEAR NEW CONDITION, 4LBS 15 OZ, 2 1/2″ DAH, 1 1/2″ DAC, 15″ LOP. Price: $8,500

Browning Superlight – 20ga – 1972 Man. Date – IC/M – 26.5” – 14 1/4” x 1 3/8” x 2” – 5 lbs 11 ozs – SN: 2871 V72 – In The Box! Minor Field Evidence can be found on wood and metal. Great Shooting Superposed! Price: $4,900

CSMC RBL 16ga/29" (LNIC) for sale — CSMC RBL 16ga/29″ (LNIC) for sale

CSMC RBL 16ga/29″ SxS (LNIC): Factory original and excellent condition appearing test fired only: exhibition grade stock, truoil finish, straight grip, splinter forend, double trigger, ejectors, case colored receiver with scroll engraving surrounding a pointer and setter on each side of the receiver, solid game rib, assisted opener. The barrels are choked Skeet / Modified, the stock measures 1 1/2″ x 2 1/8″ x 15 1/4″, and weighs 6 pounds 11 ounces. Comes with the factory ABS plastic case, owner’s manual, registration card, and nickel-plated snap caps. Price: $4,250

This weeks 5 doubles you don’t want to miss…

March 15, 2020 by Gregg

WESTLEY RICHARDS Deluxe Droplock Ejector Express .405 win Mfg 1907 and still like new: Serial # 16839, Country of Origin England, Barrel Length (in Inches) 26″, Trigger SST (Single Selective), Stock Configuration Capped Pistol Grip with trap (trap contains spare fitted strikers), English cheek piece, Forearm Type Splinter Forearm, Rib Type 1/4 Rib with express sights (1 standing and 2 folding), Receiver Finish Casehardened, Engraving Type WR deluxe Scroll Engraving with game scene cameos, Other Options Flip up night sight with folding hood, Checkered panels with drop points, Deluxe flat checkering, Original Silvers pad, Original O&L case, Gold Oval, Perfect bores, Condition EXC. Plus Condition, Weight 9lb #8oz, Dimensions 1 1/2″ x 2 1/4″ x 14 5/8″ with 3/8 cast off, Other Details Mfg 1907. Price: $69,000

FLLI RIZZINI R2E .410 GAUGE SIDE-BY-SIDE SHOTGUN: 29″ BARRELS, MODIFIED AND FULL, 3″, REMOVEABLE FLOORPLATE, SINGLE TRIGGER, SCALLOPED FRAME, EJECTORS, STRAIGHT HAND GRIP, SPLINTER FOREND, CHECKERED BUTT, 5 LBS 9 OZ, 14″ LOP. Price: $21,000

Browning Pigeon Superlight – 28ga/.410ga 3” – 6 lbs 5 ozs – 14 3/8” x 1 3/8” x 2 1/4” – SN: 1753F7 – Maker’s Case – Remarkable Condition – Rare!! This the only Superlight 28/410 I’ve ever seen!! Price: $19,995

Connecticut Shotgun Mfg. ~ RBL Launch Edition ~ 20 Gauge: RBL Proof steel, barrels marked “RBL LAUNCH EDITION 20ga 2 3/4″ CONNECTICUT SHOTGUN MFG. NEW BRITAIN CT. USA” on right and left respectivley with 2 3/4″ chamber with automatic ejectors, single bead sight on rib. Vibrantly casehardened box lock action with full coverage scroll engraving on crosshatch shaded backgrounds with single trigger with selector, and automatic sliding tang safety. Multi-point checkered forearm with Anson style push-button latch and straight stock with serrated plastic buttplate. Metal Condition: Excellent with light wear marks, Wood Condition: Great Dark Color with no deep scratches or cracks., Bore Condition: Clean and Shiny, Stock: Checkered straight stock, Weight: 6LB 6oz, Sights: Single Bead, Chokes: Right: Skeet, Left: IC. Includes: MOD,FULL, IMP MOD. Extras: Comes with Factory takedown case. Price: $3,999.99

Beretta S686 Special 28 Gauge Over Under with 28″ bbls: Fixed full and modified chokes, engraved receiver. Chambers: 2 3/4 inch with ejectors. Metal Condition: Very good, a few scratches. Wood Condition: Very good, a few scratches. Bore Condition: Bright and shiny. Barrels: 28-inch vented rib.Triggers: Single curved trigger. Stock: Checkered, semi-pistol grip, wood. Stock Dimensions: 14-inch LOP. Fore End: Checkered, finger groove, straight, wood. Butt Pad: Beretta branded black plastic plate. Weight: 6 lbs. Sights: Steel bead front. Chokes: Fixed full and modified chokes. Price: $1,499.99

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

November 24, 2019 by Gregg

E.J.CHURCHILL PREMIERE XXV 28 GAUGE: 25″ BARRELS, 007″ AND 010″, 2 3/4″, DOUBLE TRIGGER, EJECTORS, SPLINTER FOREARM, ENGLISH GRIP, MAKERS CASE, MINT ORIGINAL CONDITION, 4LBS 12 OZ, 2 1/8″ DAH, 1 5/8″ DAC, 14 1/16″ LOP. Price: $28,500

Westley Richards 20 Bore Drop Lock Deluxe: This is the early variation that has the removable bottom plate. Engraving is the Deluxe style with dogs and game with deep relief Chisel type scroll. Overall condition is about excellent. Engraving is crisp, checkering is sharp to the touch and well defined. Barrels show the typical early style of London re-black. Bores are mint. Absolutely beautiful gun. Barrels: 28 Inch with 2 1/2″ Chambers. Bores; .624 R & .625 L Min. Wall: .024 R & .026 L, Chokes: IC & Mod. Constrictions: .008 R & .020 L, Engraving: Deluxe Grade Game Scene and Relief, Action: Hand Detachable Lock (Droplock), Stock: High Quality Circassian, Butt: Half Inch Black Pachmayr Old English, L.O.P.13 3/4″, Weight5 lbs. 14.7 oz, Stock Dimensions:1 3/8″ x 2 1/8″ x 13 3/4″ with 3/8 cast off at heel and 1/2 cast off at toe. Price: $25,900

Army & Navy – Box Lock Ejector – .470 Nitro Express: 26″ Barrel, LOP 15-1/2, Weight 11 lbs. 1 oz. Bore is Excellent Plus with Sharp Rifling the Entire Way. Price: $22,750

James MacNaughton ~ This is the rare and sought after Skeleton Frame gun which is so beautiful!: Hammerless Sidelocks – This is the highly sought after Scottish round action with the skeleton frame giving it the appearance of a bar in wood. What a joy this would be to carry on that late winter snowy pheasant hunt. Where the metal action-ed double would be nice in your hand, this lovely killing machine with mostly wood in the hand would be warm to the carry. Serial Number: 2087, Ejectors: Yes, Barrels: 28″, Barrel Type: Steel, Action: Trigger plate round action, Gauge: 12 gauge, Stock Comb: 1 9/16″, Stock Heel: 2 3/16″, LOP: 15 7/16″ ( 14 3/8″ of wood), Weight: 7 lbs. 1 oz., Choke Left: .013 IC, Choke Right: .006 Skeet, Proof:Nitro: 2 1/2″, Minimum Wall Thickness Left: .030″, Minimum Wall Thickness Right: .027″. Price: $16,500

Parker side by side, 16ga, VHE-grade, 28” barrels

Parker 16 Gauge VHE – Grade double barrel: 28” barrels, ejectors. Manufacturer: Parker
Serial Number: 217568. Price: $1,800

What do you think of these insane double rifles?

July 26, 2019 by Gregg

Over the last few months, William Larkin Moore & Sons has posted some of the finest vintage double rifles I’ve ever seen. There’s quite a range of them, including these two droplock Westley Richards with a ton of killer original condition:

From the massive, like this side-by-side .577 Nitro Express WESTLEY RICHARDS Deluxe Droplock Ejector, Mfg 1903. An elephant stomper like this can generate 7,010 Ft-lbf of punch with a 750-gr bullet — KABoom! Compare that to a .30-06, which generates 2,981Ft-lbf of smack with a 220-gr bullet.

To the mid-size, like this WESTLEY RICHARDS Deluxe Droplock Express .303 Savage Cased in Orig O&L case, Mfg 1907 Near new all original condition. With it’s lightweight, his double rifle would be perfect for deer hunting here in the States. And since it’s not a dangerous-game gun, the single trigger is just fine.

The collection WLM is selling also contains stuff like super rare SxS rifle: JOHN DICKSON & SON Round Body Sidelever Express .577 3″ BPE Cased. To date, Dickson has made around 2,000 Round Action guns. Of these, fifteen have been double rifles and two have been .577s. And the one you see here is in fantastic condition. Special? You bet.

And this ‘friggin oddball OU. It’s a WW GREENER O/U Hammer Express 12bore rifle Cased in O&L Mfg 1886 Very rare and very nice condition. This rifle is just weird, and I can’t imagine why it was ever built. No one I know has seen another like it, and I bet it’s a one-off. On top of that, it looks new. So whoever ordered in back in 1886 never bothered to hunt with it. Maybe once they got it they realized how odd it was and decided they would take something else to Africa.

This week’s 5 doubles you don’t want to miss ….

June 9, 2019 by Gregg

WESTLEY RICHARDS Deluxe Droplock Express .303 Savage Cased in Orig O&L case, Mfg 1907 Near new all original condition: Serial # 16840, Barrel Length: 26″, Trigger SST (Single Selective), Stock Configuration Capped Pistol Grip with trap (with spare front sight inside), Checkered panels with drop points, Pancake cheek piece, Forearm Type Splinter Forearm with horn insert at tip Rib Type 1/4 Rib With express sights (1 standing and two folding), Engraving Type Westley Richards style Ornamental Scroll Engraving with game scene of elk on bottom and a Tiger on the trigger guard Other Options Original Oak & Leather case wit accessories, Very fancy wood, Heel & Toe plates with checkered butt, Night sight, Floding front sight hood, Bolted safety, Sling swivels Condition EXC. Plus Condition Weight 8#7oz Dimensions 14 3/8″ LOP Other Details Mfg 1907, Amazing all original condition. Price: $65,000

Winchester Model 21, 12ga, 30″ barrels, Custom Special Order: Standard grade Model 21 with fancy wood. Special ordered with exceptional wood in 22 L.P.I. in classic kidney pattern and oval grip cap. Canvas case with leather straps…letter of authenticity included. Serial Number: 16009, Chambers: 2 3/4 inch, Ejectors: Yes, Condition: Overall 95-97%, Metal Condition: 95%, Wood Condition: 98%, Bore Condition: Mint, Barrels: 30 inch, Triggers: Single Selective, Stock Drop: 1 9/16″ at comb, 2 1/2″ at heel, Stock Cast: None,Fore End: Beavertail (trap style), Butt Pad: Checkered Wood, LOP: 14 inches, Rib: Solid, Finish: Gloss, Weight: 7 lbs, 14 ozs, Manufacture Date: 1940, Choke Left: Fixed Modified, Choke Right: Fixed Full, Extras: Case, Authenticity Papers, Case: Yes. Price: $7,000

Beretta S03 Sidelock Game Gun 12ga: 28″ Boehler Antinit Steel Choked IC/Full 2 3/4″ Chambers, Double Trigger 1 1/2″x 2 1/2″ x 15 1/4″, Length to wood 13 7/8″ with 5/16″ spacer + 1″ Leather Faced Pad, This was a Factory Butt Plated Gun and still has the curve in the wood a plastic butt could be installed if someone wanted to do that. Production Date 1970, Chokes are original to gun and so marked on the barrel. PRICED TO SELL!!!! Price: $5750

Connecticut Shotgun Manufacturing Co. Special Order Model RBL 28 Gauge With Case: Ordered on November 1st 2007. This side by side shotgun’s serial number is RBL 002874. The order number is 67710. It comes with its luggage carrying case in the English Style. This 28 gauge has the following features, Upgraded American Walnut, Splinter Forend, Straight Grip, Barrels 28 Inch Modified And Full, Single Selective Trigger, Auto Ejectors and “Pull” at 14 3/4 Inches. The frame is engraved and color cased finished. This shotgun has seen very little use or being fired. It is in very fine to almost unused condition. The accessories in the case are in the English style and in unused condition. This is a Stunning looking shotgun that handles great! It is nicely balanced and comes up nicely. Price: $4,500

Browning BSS Side Lock, Sidelock, 12ga, New: 28″ with fixed Mod and Full. Gun is new but no box, sorry, box was lost in a move. CLEAN gun, just one little ding as shown. SN is 010xxPT918. 1 5/8″ DAC, 2 1/8″ DAH, 14 3/8″ LOP, 1/8″ Cast off, 6 pounds 8 oz. Price: $3,999

Auction alert: Westley Richards .470 NE Droplock double rifle…

March 27, 2019 by Gregg

Here’s one of the all-time classic dangerous-game safari rifles. It’s coming up at Poulin Auctions Spring 2019 sale, which starts this Friday, 3/30.

Auction alert: Westley Richards .470 NE Droplock double rifle... — Auction alert: Westley Richards .470 NE Droplock double rifle…

Westley Richards Droplocks (aka “hand detachable locks”) are one of the most famous side-by-side actions ever created, and the .470 Nitro Express cartridge is also highly regarded. If you’re thinking of heading to Africa on safari, this gun would be ideal for everything from Cape Buffalo to Elephants. Westley Richards still makes them today. The double rifles have a starting price of around $100,000+.

LOT 1047, WESTLEY RICHARDS DROPLOCK DOUBLE RIFLE: Cal. 470 Nitro. S# 1431. Dovetail lump 26″ bbls. w/ single standing leaf express sight in matted quarter rib. pedestal front sight topped w/ blade including bright bead & flip up high visibility sight. Sling swivel attached to bottom rib. SST. Ejectors. Polished & jeweled hand detachable locks underneath hinged floorplate. Lock up is via dbl. under lugs w/ doll’s head top fastener. Westley Richards camming top lever. Stalking safety w/ gold “SAFE” & gold “BOLTED”. Action is decorated w/ 70% pattern of bold scroll. Full length bottom tang. Capped checkered walnut pistol grip stock w/ drop points checkered side panels, sling swivel & English leather covered pad. Grip cap is engraved to match & features trapdoor storage. Wide splinter forend w/ engraved pull lever style latch. Consignor states that rifle was recently checked for regulation by maker & that it is very accurate w/ Federal ammunition. LOP: 14″. Weight: 12 lbs. CONDITION: bbls. & furniture retain better than 90% freshened blue. Coin finished action exhibits crisp engraving. Hand detachable locks still display brilliant jeweling. Grip cap blue is beginning to show a plum tone. Wood shows a few scattered compression marks w/ none protruding through the finish. Checkering remains crisp. Initial oval is engraved w/ “LCT”. Leather covered pad retains strong black color. Action is tight & on face. Ejectors are strong. Bright bores w/ crisp rifling. ESTIMATE: $17,500-22,500.

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

March 17, 2019March 17, 2019 by Gregg

Westley Richards .577 3″ NE Droplock SXS Double Rifle New Production: Westley Richards famous Droplock action with a scroll back, hinged cover plate, Snap Action Lever work and Model “C” Doll’s Head Extension, non-automatic “beetle back” safety, two triggers with the front one hinged, disk-set strikers, and Westleys’ patent ejectors. The action is color hardened with blacked furniture and wonderfully engraved in small scroll in a traditional House “diamond” pattern with the Maker’s name inlaid in gold on the top rib and on the action sides in flowing banners. Rolled trigger bow for a right hand shooter and an extended tang to a trap grip cap. Serial number is also inlaid in gold. Rifle is fitted with 25″ chopper lump barrels, WR pattern full length quarter rib with a standing Express sight (50 yds) and a single folding leaf (100 yds) both lined in gold with WR’s patent combination front sight with a flip up moon-sight. Barrels and sights are regulated for 750gr Bullets.Stock is a highly figured, yet appropriately laid out, walnut stock w/ a right handed beaded cheekpiece, drop points, traditional point pattern checkering with Mullered borders, a blank gold oval and sling swivel stud. Rifle has a 15 1/8″ LOP over a leather covered pad and a splinter forend with an ebony forend tip and Deeley forend latch. The rifle weighs 13 lbs. 6 oz. Rifle is complete in a Maker’s Best O&L case w/ accouterments and canvas outer cover with the rifles descriptions and serial number on the initial patch. Price: $95,000

Ithaca 7E Double Barrel SxS Shotgun, 12 Gauge: This is the first 7E Grade Ithaca we have ever seen, which is understandable since there were only 22 or 25 ever manufactured. According to Walter C. Snyder, an Historian of the Ithaca Gun Company, this shotgun was shipped to an undisclosed location on 12/5/44. The condition is superb, as one might expect from such a high grade shotgun, it shows almost no wear or evidence of use. The blue and case-colors are near 100%, the bores are perfect and the highly figured American Walnut stock is ornately checkered and is in near new condition. It appears that the only non-original part is a proper “sunburst” Ithaca marked reproduction recoil pad. The case hardened receiver is highly engraved and has six gold inlays including 2 ducks, 2 pheasants, a dog holding a duck and a bald eagle complete with a white gold head. The shotgun is fitted with ejectors, double gold plated triggers, and the barrels are 28 inches in length, choked full and full (0040″ + .0040″). The stock dimensions are: 14 inch length-of-pull, 2 3/4 inch drop at the heel and 1 3/4 inch drop at the comb. The weight is 7 lbs. 13 oz. The 7E Grade Ithaca is one of the rarest of all American Doubles and it would be hard to find a better one. Comes with a letter from the Chronicler of the Ithaca Gun Company dated 9/5/07. Price: $35,000

A.H. Fox XE, SxS Shotgun, Two Barrel Set: This is an A.H. Fox XE 12 gauge shotgun, with a 2nd barrel set fit by Turnbull Restoration. This classic American double gun carries serial number 29317, and is dated from 1924. Metal restoration was performed by Turnbull, and included light polishing, engraving was not re-cut (see photos); color case hardening of receiver, top lever and forend iron/latch; trigger reshaped to mid-position; both sets of barrels were polished and rust blued by us. The Fox has been utilized by its owner since restoration, so it does carry some handling marks. This Fox’s original barrel set is 28″ in length. A 2nd barrel set at 26″ was fit by Turnbull Restoration and engraved to match the original set. Wood condition is very good with minor handling marks. We did not work on this Fox’s wood, and appears to have been refinished by a 3rd party at some point. We replaced the original broken grip cap. 28″ barrel set (original): Cylinder/Improved Cylinder, 2-1/2″ chambers. 26″ heavey barrel set: Improved Cylinder/Modified, 3″ chambers with long forcing cones. Price: $20,000

PARKER VH 410 000 FRAME SIDE–BY-SIDE SHOTGUN– SUPER LITTLE ORIGINAL GUN: 26″ MOD/FULL — EXCELLENT DIMENSIONS AT 14 1/4 LOP — LATE REMINGTON REPLACED DHBP — ORIGINAL COLOR IS VIBRANT IN AREAS AND ABOUT 75% COVERAGE — ORIGINAL BLUE AT 95% BARRELS AND 50% FADING ON GUARD — BALL GRIP — EXCELLENT ORIGINAL CHECKERING AND VARNISH — SINGLE BEAD — SPLINTER FOREND — EXTRACTOR — FANTASTIC ORIGINAL GUN THAT WOULD LOVE TO BE BEHIND A DOG AGAIN — THE PERFECT UPLAND SET UP AND LIGHT AT 5LBS 7 OZ 14 1/4″ X 1 1/2″ X 2 5/8″ to a Dog’s HEAD BUTT PLATE. Price: $24,500.

Westley Richards 20ga. 27” barrels choked M/F: Capped pistol grip, checkered butt, 2 ¾” proof 3 ¼ ton, drop lock, factory single trigger, beavertail, gold oval, scalloped frame, unfired condition. This gun has 100% original case color, barrel blue and wood finish. Magnificently scroll engraved, just simply the best. Special ordered gun with hinged foreplate and the best Turkish walnut. 6 lb. 2 oz. 14 3/4” x 1 1/2” x 2’. Price: $19,995

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

April 28, 2018April 27, 2018 by Gregg

WESTLEY RICHARDS Gold NAME 12 gauge DROPLOCK SXS SHOTGUN

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

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

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

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

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

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

WESTLEY RICHARDS Gold NAME 12 gauge DROPLOCK SXS SHOTGUN

This week’s 5 good guns…

February 12, 2018 by Gregg

JOHN WILKES PAIR BEST LONDON SIDELOCKS SXS .410: Price: $79,500
KEN HUNT ENGRAVED
CONSECUTIVE NUMBERED
BOTH ARE 26″ MOD AND FULL 3″ CHAMBERS
DOUBLE TRIGGER
EJECTORS
SPLINTER FOREARM
ENGLISH GRIP
CHECKERED BUTT
4LBS 14 OZ X 2 X 1 1/2 X 15
BOTH GUNS ARE NEW UNFIRED IN MAKERS CASE

Westley Richards 20 bore Hand Detachable (drop lock) Ejector, Side-by-Side Shotgun: Single Trigger, with a modern leather case. Circa 1931, Barrels are 28 inches with original 2 3/4 chambers proofed for 1 oz. Scalloped backed action 80 % coverage large scroll. Original Westley Richards Patent one trigger. Nicely fiddle figured European walnut stock measures 13 7/8 over a thin checkered horn plate, Deluxe checkering. Bore diameter left .619 right .620. Min. wall thickness right .030 left .032 choke is full and full both barrels .031. Dimensions are 1 5/8″ X 2 1/2″ with cast approx 1/4″ on. Weight 6 lbs. Barrels, Whitworth Steel, chopper lump, retain 90% of what looks to be original black. Action retains 70% to 80% case color. Floor plate retains 50% A lovely small bore upland or game gun. Price: $26,500

Chas. Lancaster .450/400 3 1/4″ Side-by-Side Doxlock Non-Ejector Double Rifle, Super Condition: This is another one of those double rifles that are in exceptional condition without having been run through the refinishing mill. Barrels retain 98% original black. Frame has 90-95% vivid case color. Wood is in very good condition, showing some handling marks. The only alteration to the rifle is on the wood. At one time a tang sight was added to the rifle which has been removed and new wood filled in its place; evidenced in one of the pictures. Just a pleasure to find something this nice. Bores Are absolutely Mint!!!! 28″ barrels. 1/4 rib with 1S &2 F Scroll – 80% coverage. French Walnut stock. Solid Red Recoil Pad. 14 5/8″ LOP. 11 lbs. 2 oz. Price: $24,500

Lefever EE Grade 12ga. SxS Shotgun – BEAUTIFUL DAMASCUS, GREAT DIMENSIONS: 1901, 12 Gauge, 7lbs 10oz, SxS Serial Number: 35307E. Most who pursue American doubles are aware that Lefever Arms Co. of Syracuse, N.Y. produced very elegant shotguns. The engraving is better than most in its tasteful application, the frames were ornately sculpted and shaped, and the workmanship overall was superior to the competition of the day. With the last Lefever being produced in 1919, Lefever produced relatively few guns; in the range of 50.000 or so in all grades and gauges, most being lower grade guns. Mr. Elliot’s book “Uncle Dan Lefever—Master Gunmaker” notes few high-grade Lefevers were produced, and most gunners that search for fine American vintage double guns are aware that there are few Lefever EE Grade guns ever seen for sale, especially in great original condition. MOST IMPORTANTLY, THIS LEFEVER, SN35307 MADE IN 1901, RETAINS PLENTY OF FACTORY ORIGINAL CASE COLORS. Price: $4,450

Ruger Red Label. 28 ga. 28″ choke tubes, with extra straight stock: Here is a nice, lightweight 28 ga. that is both light, petite, and in a great gauge. Also with this gun come with an extra straight stock that has been shortened for a lady, youngster or a gentleman with shorter arms. The wood has lots of figure and would rate about 95% with some surface marks. The action of this gun has a few buff marks at the top. 1 1/2 x 2 3/8 x 14 1/2 * 6 lb 4 oz. Price: $1595.

The secrets of the sexy 20 gauge Westley Richards SxS …

March 12, 2017 by Gregg

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

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

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

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

Original WR advertising image for detachable locks

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

-The beautiful cut scroll engraving

-The original Westley Richards single selective trigger

-The blushes of genuine color-case hardening

-The untouched, fancy checkering on the stock

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

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

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

Can you guess this 20 gauge Westley Richards’ secrets?

March 8, 2017March 8, 2017 by Gregg

Wow – what a nice shotgun. Classic, British, and very original, this vintage 20 gauge Westley Richards SxS was completed in November in 1929 for Boston sporting goods store Bob Smith.

It has a couple secrets. See if you can spot them. In a few days, I’ll reveal them and show & tell more about this great little double.

BTW: This gun is for sale. If you’re interested and would like to know more about it, drop me an email: gregg@dogsanddoubles.com

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

May 15, 2016 by Gregg

PURDEY BEST EXTRA FINISH OVER UNDER 2 BARREL SET 28 GAUGE: THIS IS THE FINEST KEN HUNT ENGRAVED GUN THAT WE HAVE HAD 26″ SOLID RIB IC AND MOD 28″ FULL AND FULL SOLID RIB SINGLE TRIGGER EJECTORS FIELD FOREARM CAPPED PISTOL GRIP CHECKERED BUTT NEW UNFIRED IN MAKERS CASE 5LBS 12 OZ X 2 X 1 1/2″ X 14 1/2″. Price: $175,000

WESTLEY RICHARDS .410 DROPLOCK SxS SHOTGUN: 28″ BARRELS, M/F CHOKES, 4 LBS. 10 OZ., 14 5/8″ X 1 3/8″ X 2″ Price: $65,000

CHARLES DALY HAL LINDNER DIAMOND GRADE FEATHERWEIGHT BOXLOCK 12GA SHOTGUN: SCALLOPED BOXLOCK 12GA, S/S, COCKING IDICATORS, INERSEPTING SEARS, BEAUTIFUL FULL COVERAGE SCROLL WITH GAME SCENES, 28″ EXTRA FINE DAMASCUS BBLS, LONDON NITRO PROOFED, 3 TONS, 2 1/2″, MIN WALLS 27 THOU, CHOKED 1/4, 3/4, RAISED GAME RIB, EJECTORS, SINGLE TRIGGER, GORGEOUS HIGHLY FIGURED WALNUT, ST/SP, CHECKERED SIDE PANELS, TEARDROPS, ENGRAVED SKELTON BUTTPLATE, LOP 14 1/4, 1 5/8, 2 3/4, 5LBS 14OZ, VERY FINE WOOD, BORES AND DAMASCUS PATTERN ON BBLS. Price: $11,950

FRANCOTTE MODEL “20E” DOUBLE 20 GAUGE SHOTGUN RETAILED BY ABERCROMBIE & FITCH: 20 gauge, 28″ barrels choked R: .009″ L: .030″. Engraved sideplate action with auto ejectors, side clips, hiddend third bite (crossbolt with rib extension), double triggers, top lever. Checkered splinter forend and semi-pistol grip buttstock. Stock measurements: Comb: 1 1/2″ Heel: 2 1/2″ LOP: 14 1/4″ to a horn buttplate. Weight 5lbs 13oz. In beautiful original condition retaining nearly all of the casehardened finish on the action and sideplates. Trigger guard and top lever have all of the high polish charcoal blue remaining. Barrels showing 98% original blue with the maker’s and A&F’s names engraved on top. “A FRANCOTTE MAKER” and patent info on the left sideplate at the bottom. Excellent wood and checkering. 1949 mfg. Price: $8,750

Verees & Co. 28ga. 28″ auto-ejector, built by Lebeau Courally 1954: Chokes F-F (.028) Doub. Trig., LOP 14 1/4″ to Silvers type pad, DAC 1 3/8″ DAH 2″ Beaver tail FE
Condition: nearly unfired with strong case color and blue. Price: $4750

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

April 17, 2016April 17, 2016 by Gregg

Westley Richards ” Ovundo ” 20ga 28in Solid Rib Single Trigger Ejector: A sweet, beautiful , light shotgun. 5lb 9oz. Single trigger (selective). Straight english stock to a checkered butt with toe and heel plates Great case colors, great engraving on a scalloped frame. Knockout wood. Price: $25,995

FRANCOTTE 470 N E- 1927- 26″ CHOPPER LUMP EXTRACTOR Bbls.- THE BORES ARE EXC PLUS- PROPER at 10 Lbs. 15 Oz.- ORIG FINISH- SOLID RIFLE:

#84867, Aug. Francotte Bte, a Liege: A Francotte 470 Nitro Express Double Rifle Made in 1927, This Pre-War Quality Boxlock comes with 26″ Extractor Chopper lump barrels, Rib extension crossbolt that is hidden, 1/4 rib with 1 standing & 2 folding rear sights, Fold up night sight, Bushed strikers, Double triggers, It has 2 retainer screws on key screws, Anson forend release, 14 1/2″ LOP over a 1 1/2″ leather pad, Proper 470 weight of 10 lbs. 15 oz., The wood is as solid as it was 89 years ago, Sling eyes, Shadowline cheekpiece, Steel trapdoor grip cap, It has 55% coverage of period scroll engraving, It retains 50% original case colors with the balance in a nice patina, It retains 80% original barrel blue, The stock finish is original and it is 86-88%, The checkering is at 94%, I don’t know where it has been but the bores are almost as new, It is smack on the face and remains as tight as new. This piece has proven accuracy with proper handloads. This piece is very nice quality Belgium from the Golden Era of gunmaking by the great firm of Francotte. This gun has serious hunting/shooting written all over it and would dress up game fields all over Africa and anywhere in the U. S. Price:$18,750

Perazzi DHO 12g SxS Sidelock Shotgun: 12g Perazzi DHO side by side. Single trigger, sidelock action, engraved with fine rose and scroll and retaining a good amount of case colour. 28 1/2″ barrels with a raised engine turned top rib, choked 1/2 and Full. Straight hand stock measuring 14 1/6″ to centre with a rubber recoil pad and semi beavertail forend. Price: $16,000

Westley Richards Droplock 1947 12 Gauge SXS Mint Condition in Case: 28″ Skeet/Improved Cylinder Choke, LOP 14 1/2, Dac 1 1/2, Dah 2 1/4 Castoff. 12 gauge appears to be built on a 16 gauge frame. Only 6.3lbs. All original in Fabulous Condition. No Issues. Price: $12,950

J.P. Sauer & Son Prussia 12ga Scalloped Boxlock. Straigh grip English Stock: Price: $1,895
Serial Number: 125798
Chambers: 2 3/4
Ejectors: extractor
Action: Boxlock
Triggers: Double

Gauge: 12ga
Stock Comb: 1 1/2
Stock Heel: 2 1/4
Fore End: Splinter
LOP: 14.75
Weight: 7lbs 14oz
Choke Left: full
Choke Right: full

The best of the best? Perhaps…

March 21, 2016March 18, 2016 by Gregg

One of the taxidermy displays at the 2016 Safari Club Show in Vegas. All animals were full, life size, btw.

Last month, I was fortunate to spend a few day in Las Vegas at Safari Club International’s annual get together. It was a huge show, featuring outfitters, gunmakers and retailers from around the globe. If you were looking to book a hunt to anywhere in the world, find a taxidermist, order a new shotgun from the world’s top makers, or buy an expensive fur coat (oddly, several people were selling these), it was the place to be.

Droplock Westley Richards SxS shotgun. Pic from WR website

I was there to see the guns, and I have to say, I saw plenty of them. Most of the major makers were there with plenty of new guns on hand for me to inspect. Of these, three makers really stood out: Westley Richards, Boss & Co and Hartmann & Weiss.

Westley Richards’ new droplocks are great doubles, and their sidelocks are nice, too. While far from cheap, both are some of the best guys in the new, best-quality market. Deliver times are reasonable, too.

Boss & Co had two of their new OUs on hand for me to look at. Both were 28 gauges and very impressive.Boss & Co invented the low-profile style OU, and the guns the company is making today retain the style, elegance and quality that made this design so famous. From what I saw at the show, Boss is building the best over-unders coming out of London (and the most of London’s other major makers were at SCI).

Hartmann & Weiss OU shotgun. Pic from H&W site

Compared to the other gunmakers, Hartmann & Weiss had one of the smallest booths at the show. But their doubles were hugely impressive. Drop dead ‘friggin gorgeous. The 16 gauge, Boss-style OU had on hand blew me away. It may have been too nice, actually. If it were mine, I don’t know if I could bring myself to use it. Even though it was a standard gun with rose-and-scroll engraving, it looked it deserved to be displayed behind glass forever.

To see some more pics of new doubles by Boss & Co and Hartmann & Weiss, check out these posts from The Explora, Westley Richards’ great blog:

The English and German Gunmakers. Hartmann & Weiss and Boss & Co.

Boss & Co. Over and Under .500 3″NE

BOSS & Co. 20 & 28g. OVER AND UNDER.

A HARTMANN & WEISS 20g Over and Under Engraved by Alan Brown.

Wow – some nice looking Westley Richards Ovundos …

December 11, 2015 by Gregg

New Westley Richards Ovundo Double Barrel OU Shotgun

Westley Richards is one the gun world’s most famous makers — and for good reason. Their 1875 patent for the Anson & Deeley side-by-side boxlock action is one of the most important shotgun innovations ever created. In 1914, Westley Richards came up with another shotgun patent. This one was for an over-under, and even though it wasn’t as revolutionary as the one they filed in 1875, this patent was almost as unique.

Westley Richards called their new OU the Ovundo, and with it they joined Boss & Co, Frederick Beesley and James Woodward & Sons as another British gunmaker building stack-barreled, hammerless guns. But while Boss and Woodward both used low-profile actions with pivot-points mounted on the sides of the barrels and locking points in the lower third of the action, WR used a single, small lump on the bottom of the barrels and locking bites located at the top sides the barrels at the breech end. The Ovundo were also boxlocks, with the lockwork mounted on either side of the action, and they came in range of models, from basic ones with fixed locks to fancy ones with sideplates, inspection ports and detachable locks.

BTW: According to this blog post by Simon Clode Westley Richards is set to start building the Ovundo again.

20g Westley Richards Ovundo Over-Under Shotgun.

Westley Richards “Ovundo” 20ga 28in Solid Rib Single Trigger Ejector: A sweet beautiful light 5lb 9oz 20ga single trigger (selective) straight english stock to a checkered butt with toe and heel plates. Great case colors, great engraving on a scalloped frame. Knockout wood. Price: $25,995.

WESTLEY RICHARDS OVUNDO DROP LOCK 12 GAUGE: HINGED PLATE 26″ SOLID RIB 014 AND 036 2 3/4 SINGLE TRIGGER EJECTORS FIELD FOREARM PISTOL GRIP SKELETON BUTT MAKERS CASE EXCELLENT MINTY ORIGINAL CONDITION 6LBS 14 OZ X 2 5/8″ X 1 1/2″ X 14 1/4″. Price: $35,000.

12g Westley Richards Ovundo Over-Under Shotgun.

Exceptional 20g Westley Richards Ovundo Over-Under Shotgun. Pic courtesy Lewis Drake & Associates.

Westley Richards, Birmingham. Magnificent 20ga. “Ovundo”, detachable-lock, game gun completed in 1924 and remaining in near new condition throughout: Stunning vintage 20ga. remaining in near pristine condition throughout. Weight: 6 lbs. 1 oz. Stock Dimensions: 14 ¾”x 1 ½”x 2 3/8”x straight. Superb, flawless, 28” barrels with 2 ¾” chambers and brilliant bores, .628”/.631” (proofed at .625”/.626”), choked .011”/ .035”, and with minimum wall thickness of .033”/.029”, retain virtually all the original black finish. The iconic Westley Richards Patent Hand-Detachable locks remain in pristine condition. Beautifully deep-relief engraved action and side plates equipped with inspection doors retain virtually all the original brilliant hardening colors.

Westley Richards Patent single-selective trigger. Nicely figured walnut stock and forend retain virtually all the original finish and checkering remains crisp and sharp showing no evidence of use whatever. Silver’s butt pad in good condition.. Original Maker’s oak and leather case is in fine condition and contains the original complement of accessories in virtually unused condition. The original canvas and leather outer cover has a number of tiny specs of what would appear to be white paint spatter but is otherwise in very good condition. The overall fit and finish of this magnificent little gun is exemplary in every regard and it is hard to believe it is almost 100 years old. Overall a near pristine example and a great rarity. Unlikely you will ever have another opportunity to own such a classic in this condition. Price: $74,500.

The big guns bring big bucks at Julia’s…

October 13, 2015 by Gregg

Oct 1 marked the opening of grouse & woodcock season in Maine, and Lexi and I have made it the past two weekends. We’ve had little luck, though.

On the first weekend, we hit a cover in the afternoon, after I spent the AM at Poulin’s and Julia’s, checking out the guns in their fall auctions. Poulins and Julia’s hold two major firearms auctions a years — one in the spring and one in the fall. I make a point of checking them both out, if only to see some of the spectacular doubles they’re selling.

Poulin’s sale had a couple doubles that caught that interested me. This 12g, J. Funken sidelock was good quality, and the finished looked pretty original to me. But while it was a nice gun, it didn’t WOW.

12g WESTLEY RICHARDS DROP LOCK SXS SHOTGUN.

I thought this 12g Westley Richards droplock was sleeper. The gun was rebarrelled by Westley in the 50’s, and both tubes were in as-new shape (minus some of original blueing). The stock was a little messed with, but not in a bad way. Add a Silver’s pad, and it would be good to go.

Interestingly, the patent Westley based this gun’s single trigger on was developed and filed by an American: A.E. Lard. It’s a complicated design, but Westley built them with top-quality components, construction and fittings. This made them reliable and subsequently, very popular. L.C. Smith used a similar Lard-patent for their Hunter One single triggers, but failed to apply the same quality control. That’s one reason the Hunter Ones can be such PITA.

PAIR OF CUSTOM FINISHED BROWNING B-25 OU SHOTGUNS

Over at Julia’s, a few guns caught my eye. If I were going to the UK to shoot high pheasants, I would have bought these Browning B25s. They’re rugged, reliable, good looking, and heavy enough to suck up a day’s worth of 1 1/4oz loads. These guns hammered down for $8000 against a reserve of $12,500 — so they didn’t sell. Has they hit $12,500, they still would have been a good deal. They’re a lot of quality for the money. To see just how much, compare them to this next pair of guns.

This OU is a titanium Fabbri, a double that’s supposed to b the pinnacle of modern gunmaking. Even though this one waspretty much new and probably cost the original owner $150,000+, bidding on it topped put at $80,000 against a reserve of $100,000.

IVO FABBRI TITANIUM ACTION PINLESS SIDELOCK EJECTOR SINGLE TRIGGER OVER-UNDER GAME OR PIGEON GUN WITH CASE.

I have mixed feeling about Fabbris. To me, they’re sort of like the new James Bond movies: I want to love them, but every time I see them I’m disappointed. According to this piece in The Field, Fabbris use advanced steel and building techniques to construct their guns. While I’m glad someone in the gun trade is doing this kind of stuff, I wonder if its unnecessary. After all, we’re talking about shotguns, not fighter jets. Perazzi’s and Krieghoffs don’t use super high-tech steels and advanced construction techniques, and their guns have withstood hundred-of-thousands of rounds and won enough Olympic medals to decorate the Christmas tree in Times Square. I imagine Fabbri does it for the same reason their customers buy these OUs: Because they can.

HUMONGOUS HOLLAND & HOLLAND FOUR BORE DOUBLE ELEPHANT RIFLE.

Now for a couple doubles that didn’t disappoint. The first one was this monster 4-bore Holland & Holland double rifle which hammered down for $130,000 ($149,500 with the premium). The second was this .577 Holland & Holland Double Rifle. It brought $115,000 with the juice.

In these two side-by-sides, you could see the evolution of the really big bore. The 4-bore was built in 1884 and at that time it was one the biggest rifles you could buy. The .577 was from 1928. It pushed a 750 grain bullet with 90 grains of cordite — ka BOOM. Both guns were made for Indian princes. Judging by the guns’ conditions, the princes didn’t take these doubles out very much.