London Archives - Dogs and Doubles

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

July 25, 2021July 24, 2021 by Gregg

Extraordinary early Parker A1 Special 12ga 2 barrel set- 30” and 34” – PGCA letter ordered by W.F. Parker! Deepest relief engraving I’ve ever seen!: Per the PGCA Research Letter – This gun Ordered by and likely used by Wilbur F. Parker! Truly Exceptional Parker A1 Special 12ga two barrel set, made in 1907 on a #2 Frame. This very rare gun is equipped with two sets of Whitworth Fluid Steel barrels- one set is 30″ long (original set), the other is 34″ (also definitely factory) long- an extreme rarity in these guns and also extremely desirable today. This gun would make the ultimate vintage Pigeon Gun. This gun currently sports a fantastic straight stock with gold plated double triggers, beavertail forend, and was made with auto ejectors, auto safety, and has older Silver’s type pad. The top lever is beautifully sculpted as are the breech balls as seen in the photos. These early A-1 Specials are some of the best engraved of all the Parker shotguns and this one is no exception. The quality of the relief flowers are spectacular and by far the best executed I have seen. The depth of the relief engraving and the quality is the finest on any Parker I have examined. The fully engraved safety with gold inlaid “SAFE” in front. See the photos for details on the engraving – it is breathtaking. The PGCA letter for this gun is fascininating and worthy of review- see the photos for this as well. This gun remains in pleasing overall condition. The gun has been updated, likely by Remington with both sets of barrels now having ventilated ribs, which are good and sound. Mechanics are crisp throughout. The gun has been completely restored with later Remington case color- likely done when the gun went back in for service in 43,45, or 46, though undoubtedly a Remington Parker work and quality. The mechanics are crisp and the bores are brilliant and shiny. This extremely rare and desirable Parker is both pleasing to look at in the gun room and in the field. Price: $60,000

ARRIZABALAGA SLE 20 GAUGE: Gun is in very good condition with some light handling marks. Oval is initialed. Caliber Info: 20 Gauge Ejectors: Yes Metal Condition: Very Good Barrels: 28″ Action: Sidelock Triggers: Double Gauge: 20 Gauge Stock Comb: 1 1/2″ Stock Heel: 2 3/8″ Stock Cast: Off Fore End: Checkered LOP: 15 1/4″ Rib: Concave Weight: 6.5 lbs Chokes: IC/IM Case: Leather Luggage. Price: $12,775

“SCARCE” James Purdey of London Double Rifle chambered in .450 BPE that was manufactured in 1868 for the 15th Duke of Norfolk: The amount of man hours was very high when one of these rifles was made. From the factory letter we know that this rifle was completed in 1868. It was built for the Duke of Norfolk and stocked by John Robertson. The caliber is listed as a 60 bore which is the equivalent to the .450 BPE cartridge. This J. Purdey .450 “BPE” Black Powder Express Rotary Underlever Big Game Hammer Double Rifle is all matching with no alterations. The bores are in excellent condition being bright with excellent lands and grooves in the 30” barrels. It has a 3-leaf rear sight with one fixed and two folding blades. Each blade has a Platinum center line and are marked “100, 200 and 250.” The finish shows no signs of rust or pitting with strong pattern colors. The forearm is in very fine condition with no cracks and one chip as shown. The butt stock is in excellent condition with no chips, cracks or repairs. This after 153 years is quite amazing. The receiver shows very fine and detailed engraving as you can see in the pictures. The rifle is tight and obviously has seen very little use over the decades. The rifle functions as it should with no issues. The original oak case has some accessories and the original cleaning rod. The center lock mechanism is missing but both side levers are present. No FFL transfer is needed to transfer this antique. The factory letter will be included. Price: $10K

MERKEL 200E 20ga 26″ IC&M, DT, Mfg 1955 Excellent: Serial # 41176 Country of Origin Germany Barrel Length (in Inches) 26″ Choke U IC (.005″), Choke O M (.015″) Trigger DT (Double) Stock Configuration Capped Pistol Grip, Recoil pad Forearm Type 3-piece Forearm Rib Type Solid rib Receiver Finish Casehardened Engraving Type Ornamental Scroll Engraving Other Options 2 3/4″ chambers, Cocking indicators, Horn grip cap Condition EXC. Condition Weight 6#0oz Dimensions 1 1/2″ x 2 1/2″ x 14″ with 3/8″ cast off. Other Details Mfg 1955. Price: $5,500

Beretta ~ Model S686 Special ~ OU ~ 20 GA: Description: This Beretta S686 is in overall very good condition. Metal Condition: Very Good Wood Condition: Very Good Bore Condition: Excellent Barrels: 26″ Triggers: Single Selective Safety Stock Dimensions: 14″ LOP Fore End: Checkered Walnut Semi Pistol Grip – Checkered Walnut Forend Butt Pad: Black Rubber Butt Pad Weight: 6 lbs Sights: Front Bead – Mid-Bead Chokes: With Screw in Choke Tubes Wood shows some light handling marks and dings. Complete with case! 20 Gauge. Price: $2,099.99

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

July 4, 2021 by Gregg

Truly exceptional, genuine, and very rare early Parker A1 Special 12ga – Superior engraving and metal work- early “Whit1” gun & the 6th A1: This extraordinary Parker A1 Special ranks amongst one of the nicest A1 Special 12ga guns I have handled. Made in 1906 on a #2 frame, this exact gun is pictured on pages 359 and 360 of “The Parker Story. This gun, with beautiful 30” Whitworth steel barrels made with fully checkered forend with fleur-de-lis pattern. Made with double triggers, auto ejectors, auto safety, buttstock with gold capped pistol grip and terminates with an older Silver’s type pad. The action is full coverage engraved in very deep relief floral and scroll pattern. Sculpted fences. The grip cap has a lined gold washer and the cap itself with full gold initial plate as seen in the photos. Truly exceptional – this is the 6th A1 Special Parker Bros. ever made and is documented exactly as found today. This gun remains in excellent overall condition. The barrels are superb with more than 97% factory quality rust blue. Action has toned mostly with sharp engraving throughout. Checkering is excellent and shows light handling wear. Stocks are sound and retain most of their original finish with finish added for preservation. The pad is an older replacement. This exceptional and rare Parker is housed in a full leather case. The case is in excellent condition with only minor rubs. Price: $89,500

Purdey SxS 12 Gauge Sidelock SxS Game Gun: All original James Purdey & Sons 12 ga self opening game gun. All original gun (except possibly pad), originally built in 1933. Pad may be original as well as gun resold new in 1941 (original buyer did not take delivery of gun). 28 inch barrels, 2 5/8 inch chambers, choked IC / 1/2, measuring .006R/.020L. Barrel wall thickness at .029 both. Original London Proof Marks, matching serial numbers on all components, and Purdey barrel numbers intact. Concave Game Rib marked with Purdey name, address, and special steel markings. Ejectors. Anson Fore-end fastener. English straight stock LOP 14 3/8 in to pad, 13 5/8 in wood. Drop 1 1/2 to 2 3/8 in. Minimal Cast Off. Weight 6 lb 4 oz. Later leather case with Maker’s Label. Assortment of accessories (some are A&F, New York) included. Recent Purdey factory sales history document (2020) and 1930s Sales Brochure supplied with gun. 35 photo zip file available to interested parties. Price: $27,500

A H FOX, PHIL., XE GRADE – GORGEOUS 12 GAUGE: 28″ KRUPP FLUID STEEL BARRELS, NUMBER 4 WEIGHT, MODIFIED (.020) AND FULL (.034), 2 3/4″ CHAMBERS EXCELLENT BLUE, MIRROR-BRIGHT BORES, TWIN IVORY SIGHTS, BARRELS RING BEAUTIFULLY. DEEP CUT ACANTHUS SCROLL ENGRAVING AT THE BREECH ENDS. CASE COLORED FRAME HAS GORGEOUS DEEP RELIEF CUT ENGRAVING, VIGNETTE ON RIGHT WITH TWO QUAIL IN FLIGHT, LEFT SIDE HAS A PAIR OF DUCKS IN FLIGHT, STANDING FOX ON THE BOTTOM, BOLD LEAF FOLIATE PATTERN WITH STIPPLED BACKGROUND. 100% COVERAGE INCLUDING TOP LEVER, FENCES, TANG, TRIGGER GUARD AND FOREARM IRON, SCREWS. TOP LEVER TO THE FAR RIGHT, TIGHT ON FACE. ROUND KNOB GRIP, LONG SPLINTER FOREARM WITH EBONY TIP. FINE CHECKERING WITH RIBBON BANDS. VERY ATTRACTIVE ENGLISH WALNUT WITH BOLD BLACK STREAKS. ORIGINAL SILVERS PAD, 1 1/2″ X 2 1/2″ X 14 1/4″, 6 POUNDS 10 OUNCES. WONDERFUL EARLY FOX IN VERY PLEASING CONDITION. MADE IN 1915. Price: $11,000

Westley Richards Boxlock Game Gun 12 Gauge: Serial Number: T10352, Barrel Length: 26″, Stock Dimensions:1 1/2″ C x 2 1/2″ H, LOP: 14 1/8, Weight: 5 lbs 14 oz, Chokes: 1/4 – 3/4, Price: $2,950.

W.R. Pape ~ Newcastle ~ A great light little 12 by one of England’s top makers:
Boxlocks – What a delightful little game gun by one of my favorite makers. William Rochester Pape was known among the English shotgun crowd as the “Purdey of the North.” This was a direct tribute to their quality and attention to detail. Serial Number: 11816, Ejectors: Yes, Barrels: 30″, Barrel Type: Steel, Action: Box lock ejector, Gauge: 12 gauge, Stock Comb: 1 7/16″, Stock Heel: 1 7/8″, Stock Cast: 1/8″, LOP: 14 7/8″, Weight: 6lbs 6oz., Choke Left: .034 full, Choke Right: Cyl., Proof: Nitro 2 1/2″, Minimum Wall Thickness Left: .029, Minimum Wall Thickness Right: .031. Price: $2,500

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

February 22, 2021February 21, 2021 by Gregg

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

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

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

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

February 21, 2021 by Gregg

Purdey sidelock Over-Under 20 gauge, 30″ Bbls, 2003 and mint, Teage Choke Tubes, Leather Case w/canvas cover: I am original buyer and owner of this Purdey sidelock 20 Gauge, Over and Under, with 30″ Barrels, Teague Chokes. Specs were to make the ideal driven pheasant shotgun, as well as for partridge and other small bird game. It’s a marvelous shotgun and here is the whole story on the shotgun which was ordered in 2001 and delivered in Declember 2003. Description per the mini Purdey book included with the gun as follows: 20 Bore, Over & Under Square Bar, Trigger Single, Beaded Edge, Automatic safety, weight 6lb 8 oz, Barrels 30″, Chamber 2 and 3/4″, Rib solid matted, Chokes Teague x 6 tubes, Proof 1200 BAR, Weight of Barrels 2 lb 12 oz, Stock Pistol Grip with Metal Cap, Chequered Butt, Measurements 1 3/8 x 1 7/8, Length 15 3/8 Mid, Cast off 3/8″ Heel, Forend Slim Tapering, No oval, Case Light Tan + Canvas Outer. Engraving Fine Rose & Scroll. Gold Purdey name on Locks and Forend Iron; Colour Hardened Finish. Total shells fired less than 3 boxes; used once in the field. Gun is in excellent plus condition per photos posted here; no bad surprises! All the little parts that Purdey delivers with shotgun are here: Purdey engraved snapcaps, Purdey cleaning rod, Purdey mini leather holder with chamber brushes, a mini Purdey book with all specs of gun. There is also a thumb drive with photos of the making of this shotgun in the Purdey factory in England. Stock was hand selected in the Purdey wood room at Audley House. Gold Purdey name on Locks each side, and on Forend iron add a touch of distinction. The 30 inch barrels with the Teague chokes allow you many possible uses of just one gun, from open chokes for Partridge to full chokes for driven pheasant; you get to pick which of the 6 chokes you want. I thought the 20 gauge over-under was the best option for various game events, and that would include skeet and even sporting clays. Note in the leather case–and case was made specifically for this gun–the Teague chokes come with one small wrench which is eacy and fast to change choke tubes; each of the tubes is fitted into the case. Also note that the case holds small silver colored bottle for oil, and small tan leather holder for barrel brushes, and the rod with Pudey naming is tucked neatly into the case, along with Purdey engraved snap caps. The good news is that all the mini parts are here and included. It’s a marvelous gun looking for a new home! (PS: Using 2017 Purdey price list, this shotgun prices out at $165,117 plus Duty $4170 Excise Tax $17,644 and shipping w/insurance $3,000. ) Price: $125,000

Piotti 28 gauge BSEE Model boxlock ejector side by side: A pre-owned Piotti 28 gauge BSEE Model boxlock ejector side by side. Calibre: 28 gauge, Action: Boxlock ejector, Triggers: Double, Safety: Non-Automatic, Barrel Length: 29 1/2 inches, Chamber: 2 3/4 inch, Rib: Game Concaved, Chokes: Right : 1/4 Left : Tight 1/4, Type: Deluxe, Length: 14 1/2 inch, Grip: Classic Straight hand, Butt End Finish: 1/2 inch recoil pad, Forend: Game style, Description: Fine Decrotive Scroll, Finish: Case Colour, Weight: 5 lbs – 13 oz, Case: Makers Leather Case, Date of Manufacture: 2008. Price: $19,995

E. J. Churchill The Regal 20ga/25″ Boxlock SXS: 23xxx serial number range Churchill “The Regal”: case colored scalloped frame boxlock with floral and scroll engraving, double trigger, ejectors, drop points, solid raised rib with twin beads, straight grips, splinter forearm, 2 3/4″ chambers. Right barrel measures .615″ with .008″ choke, left barrel measures .615″ with .025″ choke. Stock measures 1 1/2″ x 2″ x 14 1/4″ over a checkered butt. Weight is 5 pounds 2 ounces. Comes with a factor leather case and cleaning accessories. Price: $8,995

Beautiful Parker DHE 16ga Game Gun – All original and in excellent condition: I have for sale a very nice all original Parker DHE 16ga. The gun was made in 1928 on a #1 frame with 28″ Titanic barrels. The gun was made with auto ejectors, a splinter forend, double triggers, and capped pistol grip buttstock with very fine grain which terminates with what I believe is the original pad. Nicely engraved in standard DHE pattern as seen in the photos. Overall the gun remains in pleasing original condition with 60% strong original case color, nearly all of the original barrel blue and more than 95% fine original stock finish. The gun has excellent screws and appears as it left the factory. Trigger guard retains about 1/3 of the original blue. Stocks are sound though there is a small scratch behind the right side of the frame – that is NOT a crack – guaranteed. Here are the technicals on the gun: 2 5/8” Chambers, 1 Frame, Weight 6lbs. 12 oz., LOP 14 1/8″ over orig. pad , Drop at comb 1 5/8″, Drop at heel 2 3/4″, Cast 0, Right Bore .665”, Left Bore .664”, Chokes R .023 (mod) L .029 (full) , Minimum Barrel Wall Thickness R .026″, L .023″. Price: $6500

Terrific Remington 1894 CEO grade 12-gauge side by side.

Terrific Remington 1894 CEO grade 12-gauge boxlock side by side: Gun has 30” ordinance steel barrels with an English stock, double triggers, and ejectors. Really nice engraving on a case-colored receiver. Serial number P136362. Gun is over 100 years old and in spectacular condition. All original. $4,500. From my family collection. Email or text seller with questions. Price: $4,500

As good as it gets: a 10g Holland & Holland Royal SxS …

February 1, 2021 by Gregg

A superb Holland & Holland Royal 10g with 31" barrels — A superb Holland & Holland Royal 10g with 31″ barrels

On the face of it, the word “best” s a simple meaning: Traditionally, it was the top-grade gun built by a manufacturer. But in an era when guns were almost entirely hand made, quality varied, and some best guns were best-er than others.

Check out this H&H Royal to see what I mean. I don’t know who they made this gun for or why they did such a nice job on it, but it’s one of the finest Holland & Holland Royal I’ve seen.

The Royal is Holland & Holland’s flagship gun. They’ve been building it since the 1890s, and it has been copied by countless makers in the UK to Spain, Germany, and Japan.

The engraving pattern on this gun is the company’s famous acanthus-scroll (inspired by the work of textile designer William Morris), but it’s executed a higher level than what you see on your average Royal. Everything is done a bit better, too. The action is a bit crisper, the wood a bit more elegant, the checkering a bit more careful. Overall, it’s a stunning gun.

HOLLAND & HOLLAND – ROYAL SXS 10 BORE

#23367. 31″ NITRO PROOFED STEEL BARRELS 2 7/8″ CHAMBERS, PROOFED FOR 1 1/2 OZ, DOUBLE TRIGGER, EJECTOR, SPLINTER FOREARM, ENGLISH GRIP, MINT CONDITION, ORIGINAL, OAK AND LEATHER MAKERS CASE, 9LBS 4 OZ, 2 1/4″ DAH, 1 1/2″ DAC, 14 3/4″ LOP. PRICE: $49,500

See how they’re made: Smith & Torok shotguns …

December 16, 2020 by Gregg

28-gauge Smith & Torok Over Under Shotgun

Here’s a cool video from one of the UK’s best-quality, boutique gunmakers: Smith & Torok. Check it out to see some classic, old-school gunmaking technques.

See how they're made: Smith & Torok shotguns... — See how they’re made: Smith & Torok shotguns…

On Ebay now: Boss, Purdey, Holland & Holland, NO RESERVES …

October 23, 2020 by Gregg

Here are some items I just listed on Ebay. All have $1 starts, no reserves.

Boss & Co Best-Quality Oak & Leather Case

Made in the 1990s for a 20g Boss OU shotgun, possibly by Vincent Rickards.

James Purdey & Sons Lightweight Canvas Case with Accessories

Genuine “Lightweight Flat V.C Canvas Case”, superb original condition, made for a 12-gauge side-by-side shotgun, 28” barrel compartment.

Holland & Holland Best Quality Oak & Leather Shotgun Shell Magazine

Holds up to 500 12-gauge shotgun shells. Made for a British aristocrat.

See my other Ebay listings:

–Abercrombie & Fitch nickel-plated oil bottle

–Boss & Co 3-turnscrew set, best quality, possibly by Mike Marsh

–Boss & Co 20g chamber brush, best quality

–Boss & Co cleaning rod, best quality

–12g Purdey snap caps

–Purdey 3-turnscrew set, rosewood handles & red leather case

What a Woodward! A great gun from a mysterious maker …

May 1, 2020 by Gregg

James Woodward & Sons, St. James St., Gunmaker case label

Of all the famous London gunmakers, James Woodward & Sons is the most mysterious. Great examples of their doubles are hard to find. So is reliable information about the company.

We do know that James Woodward opened his business in 1874 and that his company was bought by James Purdey & Sons in 1948. In its 74 years, Woodward may have built around 4,500 guns or so — no one is sure about the exact number. The company introduced its famous Woodward over & under in 1913.

The James Woodward & Sons side-by-side you see here is one of the nicest Woodward SxSs I’ve seen on the market in years. It made around 1930, and according to the seller it’s in minty condition. It’s a big gun, and its weight, broad, file-cut rib, sideclips, and 2 3/4″ chambers make me thing it may have been made with live-pigeon shooting in mind.

The deep cut, arcaded fences on this gun are one of Woodward’s signature features. So is this gun’s T-shaped safety.

Read this article from Gray’s Sporting Journal to learn more about James Woodward & Sons: The enduring influence of the gunmaker’s gunmaker.

Go here to see from great OUs: James Woodward & Sons. A pair of 12g over and under guns.

JAMES WOODWARD BEST SXS 12 GAUGE: #6952, 30″ BARRELS, CHOKES .008″ AND .027″, CHAMBERS 2 3/4″, DOUBLE TRIGGER, EJECTOR, SPLINTER FOREARM, ENGLISH GRIP, MINT, MAKERS CASE, 7LBS 11 OZ, 2 1/4″ DAH, 1 1/2″ DAC, 14 3/4″ LOP. Price: $39,500

Let’s admire a beautiful old Purdey SxS shotgun…

April 28, 2020 by Gregg

Incredible island-lock hammergun by James Purdey, London

I love old Purdeys, and when I take a look at the one you see here, I remember why. When this side-by-side was made around 1869, centerfire, breechloading shotguns like it were the latest-and-greatest thing. Even though its Henry Jones Screw-Grip Action looks primitive to us today, it was cutting-edge back then.

But even though this Purdey was built with the latest features from its era, it retains the understated, elegant looks that had made James Purdey’s firearms famous and that would define them throughout the 1800s and up to today.

The back-action, island locks on this gun are one of the features that make it special. So is the engraving, probably cut by Purdey’s house engraver at that time: James Lucas. The chiseled fences are also nice, and so is the teardrop shape to the triggerguard. What a gun!

On being a “best”, according to gunmaker Dewey Vicknair …

March 23, 2020 by Gregg

BOSS & CO, LONDON, BEST SXS 20 GAUGE SIDELOCK SHOTGUN

To a lot of people in the gun trade, “Best gun” is fighting words. Traditionally, it’s a handmade sidelock side-by-side shotgun or double rifle built to the highest standards by one of the major London makers like Holland & Holland or James Purdey & Sons.

JAMES PURDEY & SONS BEST PRE WAR PIGEON GUN 12 GAUGE

But today, as some of these famous makers are relying more and more on CNC equipment to build their guns, is it fair to still call these “Best Guns”? And do they still justify their incredibly high prices? Find out what one person thinks.

Is That New “Best Gun” Really What You Think It Is? by Dewey Vicknair

“With the gun first created in “virtual reality” and so much less hand work involved, one does wonder why the price of a modern best is so high, especially considering that one of the biggest names in best gunmaking now makes guns “for stock”, presumably for the buyer who just can’t wait for a bespoke gun. It might even be said that the buyer is paying for something that he is not receiving, because he believes that he is purchasing a handmade gun when in fact, that gun is mostly made on CNC machinery.”

Read Dewey’s entire piece now

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

March 1, 2020 by Gregg

Hartmann & Weiss 16 Bore O/U on the Boss System

Hartmann & Weiss 16 Bore O/U on the Boss System : Gun was ordered in ’04 and delivered to my client in 2015! It took eleven years to complete this beautiful example of H&W’s magnificent work. There are hardly enough adjectives to adequately describe this piece; except perhaps, that it is available for immediate delivery! Barrels 29 Inch with Solid Raised Rib, Chokes Light Mod & Mod. Bottom barrel marked 1/4 and 1/2., Engraving Fine English Style Scroll, Stock Best Grade Turkish Walnut, Butt: Checkered, L.O.P. 15 3/8″, Weigh t6 lbs. 8.5 oz, Stock Dimensions1 1/2 x 2 1/4 x 15 3/8 to ctr. of checkered butt. Cast: 1/4 off at heel – 3/8 off at toe. Price: $135,000

HOLLAND & HOLLAND ROYAL 10 BORE PARADOX DOUBLE RIFLE MADE FOR 1900 PARIS EXHIBITION: LETTER FROM HOLLAND IN THE PHOTOS, 27″ PARADOX BARRELS WITH GREAT BORES, WE HAVE LIVE ROUNDS AND DATA AVAILABLE, DOUBLE TRIGGERS, EXTRACTORS, SPLINTER FOREARM, PISTOL GRIP, MAKER’S CASE, UNTOUCHED GREAT ORIGINAL CONDITION, 13 LBS 8 OZ, 14 7/8″ LOP. Price: $59,500

Pre-War MERKEL 202E Over_Under highly engraved and optioned 20ga: 27″ barrels and according to Merkel Germany direct records, manufactured in 1944. A short look at this gun one realizes with the incredible detail and workmanship it absolutely could not be made today. The deep relief hand engraving is really unlike any other you will see in depth and detail. Ivory bead front sight, buffalo horn seamlessly blended in to form the rear trigger guard, and each and every exterior screw hand engraved-even the butt plate screws. Cocking Indicators, Greener crossbolt action, cross relief, Ejectors, with a 14 1/4″ LOP over a beautifully figured walnut stock, 5.9 lbs as shown. Price: $8930

Beretta ASEL 20 ga. O/UBeretta ASEL 20 ga. O/U: 26″ hand-filed vent rib barrels with double ivory beads are choked improved cylinder and full (.009/.024). This late 1950s Abercrombie & Fitch gun features hinged front double triggers, auto ejectors and auto safe. Fully engraved scallop-backed action, elegant special-order long forend, Prince of Wales grip. Nicely figured Tyrolean walnut stock measures 1-3/8″ comb, 2-3/8″ heel, 14-1/8″ LOP over the original wood butt. Made in the same workrooms as the SO guns, certainly the finest boxlock O/Us ever produced by Beretta. The diminutive frame, scaled to the gauge allows this little 20 to weigh a mere 5 lbs, 10 ozs. Honest example. Price: $6,750

Beretta BL4 (BL-4) – 28ga – 26 3/8” Barrels – Like New – ca. 1970 – Sk/Sk Chokes – 14 1/4” x 1 1/2” x 2 1/2” – 6 lbs – 99% Condition: Like New – ca. 1970 – Sk/Sk Chokes – 14 1/4” x 1 1/2” x 2 1/2” – 6 lbs – 99% Condition – Clean! Upland Bird Gun: Price: $3,995

Be impressed. New film about Boss & Co, gunmakers …

May 13, 2019 by Gregg

Without a doubt, Boss & Co is one of the world’s top gunmakers. In this film you find out a bit more about why the company has succeeded for so long and why their guns are still prized by shooters around the world.

12g Boss & Co. SxS Shotguns, 1925, post-Roberston. From www.drake.net — A pair of 12g Boss & Co SxS shotguns

Auction alert: A new 12g Holloway & Naughton best-quality sidelock SxS …

March 28, 2019 by Gregg

This nearly-new 12g sidelock shotgun is coming up in Poulin Auctions Spring 2019 sale, which starts 3/30. It’s a best-quality, British gun made around 1994, and it’s built on a Beesley action, just like a Purdey. Watch the video above to learn more about it.

LOT 1045, POULIN AUCTIONS SPRING 2019 SALE: MAGNIFICENT HOLLOWAY & NAUGHTON BEST CASED TWO BARREL SET SIDELOCK SXS SHOTGUN:

LOT 1045: MAGNIFICENT HOLLOWAY & NAUGHTON BEST CASED TWO BARREL SET SIDELOCK SXS SHOTGUN: Both sets of bbls. are 12 Ga. w/ 2 3/4″ chambers. S# H&N 12-94. Bbl. 1) Length: 30″. Choke constrictions: .011″ right, & .021″ left. Bbl. 2) Length: 28″. Choke constrictions: .011″ right, .020″ left. A true Best Quality gun, this H&N is stocked to the fences with drop points. The firing pins are bushed. Exquisite Delahaut bouquet & scroll engraving decorates all of the action metal with carbona blue pins. A banner “HOLLOWAY & NAUGHTON” in gold with gold stripe cocking indicators provides a dramatic contrast against the elegant case colors. As the gun was made in 2006, it wears the vivid colors that made Ray St. Ledger a legend in the English gun trade.

LOT 1045, POULIN AUCTIONS SPRING 2019 SALE: MAGNIFICENT HOLLOWAY & NAUGHTON BEST CASED TWO BARREL SET SIDELOCK SXS SHOTGUN:

Barrels are struck to perfection & finished with luscious rich blue that appears inches deep. No less impressive than the metal, mother nature’s most elegant marble cake walnut highlights the stock & forend. Smoky figure abounds throughout the auburn backgrounds with perfect layout for a gun of this quality. Both bbl. sets feature file cut concave game ribs with brass front beads. Both bbls. use the same forend. Both bbl. sets are chopper lump bbl. construction. Checkered walnut straight hand stock with checkered butt. Checkered splinter forend. Double triggers with front trigger articulated. Purdey style self opening action. Toeline of stock features nameplate marked “RDP”. DAC: 1 1/2″. DAH: 2 3/8″. LOP: 14 5/8″. Weight: 6.95 lbs. with 28″ barrels & 7.05 lbs. with 30″ barrels. UNATTACHED ACCESSORIES: maker’s very compact 2 barrel case replete with “Holloway & Naughton” marked nickel plated oil bottle & snap caps. The body of the snap caps & fitted turn screws feature off white synthetic bodies. Ebony & brass 2 piece cleaning rod. Key is included. CONDITION: all aspects near excellent with 28″ barrel set (left barrel) showing faint thinning of blue for the last 1/2″ to the muzzle. PROVENANCE: From the Robert Pettus Collection. ESTIMATE: $40,000-60,000.

Auction alert: A beautiful 12g Boss & Co OU …

December 6, 2018December 5, 2018 by Gregg

LOT 332: BOSS & CO. A FINE 12-BORE SINGLE TRIGGER SIDELOCK EJECTOR OVER AND UNDER GUN, NO. 9990

The12g Boss OU see here is built on one of the most important shotgun designs of the 20th century. It’s also an absolute bargain.

The UK’s Gavin Gardiner is selling it in his Fine Modern & Vintage Sporting Guns Auction on 12 December 2018. Check out his video of it below to see just how nice it is.

Built on a design patented by Boss & Co in 1909, the Boss OU introduced the world to the low-profile OU. Up until 1909, breech-loading OUs had lumps on the bottom of the barrels like a side-by-side. This made them thick through the action and clunky looking.

Boss & Co go rid of lumps by mounting “trunions” on either side of barrels. This slimmed down the action, lightened the guns, and made Boss OUs look as sleek as their SxSs.

Today, most modern OUs owe a huge debt to Boss’s design, from a Beretta Silver Pigeon and a CSMC’s A10 to a Fabbri

Boss & Co is still in business and they’re still building their legendary OUs today. I think prices start at around $240,000. So if you can buy this gun for anything less than $100,000, you’re getting a fantastic deal.

LOT 332: BOSS & CO. A FINE 12-BORE SINGLE TRIGGER SIDELOCK EJECTOR OVER AND UNDER GUN, NO. 9990: 28-inch barrels with 2 3/4-inch chambers, about 1/4 and 1/2 choke borings, the frame, locks and top lever engraved with fine bouquet and scroll engraving and retaining almost all of its original hardening colour, the maker’s name signed within a scrolling banner, gold line cocking indicators, 14 1/2-inch well-figured stock and Boss half pistol grip, nitro proof, 7lb., in its maker’s lightweight case with canvas outer cover S2 The maker confirms that the gun was delivered in 1995. The gun remained in store with its maker for a number of years and remains virtually as new and unused.

A beautiful Purdey double rifle. But what do you do with it?

November 29, 2018 by Gregg

Rare, Very Fine Cased Engraved J. Purdey 28 Bore Back Action Rotary Underlever Hammer Double Rifle with Accessories

There’s a list of things I like to see when I look at doubles. This James Purdey double rifle checks all my boxes: It’s vintage; it’s gorgeous; it’s by a famous maker, it’s top quality; it’s in great orginal condition; and it’s cased and comes with most, if not all, its original accessories.

Unfortunately, other than stare at it, I have no idea what I would do with it. Why? Because of its only flaw: It’s a 28-bore rifle. This means it has rifled barrels, but shoots a 28g shell (probably 2 1/2″) loaded with a lead slug. While this load would be fine for whitetails, getting the ammo would be a PITA.

Rare, Very Fine Cased Engraved J. Purdey 28 Bore Back Action Rotary Underlever Hammer Double Rifle with Accessories

Even if you could get it or wanted to do through the trouble or loading up your own, getting the rifle to regulate and shoot right could be just a difficult. A .450 BPE like this is more practical and, in a most ways, just plain better.

Lot 535: Rare, Very Fine Cased Engraved J. Purdey 28 Bore Back Action Rotary Underlever Hammer Double Rifle with Accessories: The makers have kindly confirmed that this rifle was completed on October 2nd 1867 for Viscount Downe of the 2nd Lite Guards, as a center fire double hammer rifle in 28 bore with 30 inch Damascus barrels. Only 327 hammer double rifles were manufactured by Purdey in 1880-1900 per page 200 of “Purdey: Gun & Rifle Makers, The Definitive History” by Dallas. A rather similarly laid out pinfire double rifle is pictured in plate 36. The rifle has the matching serial number on the bottom of the barrels, the forearm hardware, and the lever. The barrel rib has a bead blade front sight and four leaf rear sight (three folding leaves) with platinum sight lines and is signed “J. PURDEY 314 1/2 OXFORD STREET LONDON” on top ahead of the rear sight. The barrel flats have standard London black powder proof marks, and the water table has London view marks. The non-rebounding floating back action locks are signed “PURDEY” in small letters, and “PATENT” is marked on the upper tang. The checkered buttplate is marked “CHARGE/3 DMS No. 6 POWDER” at the heel. The action, locks, and furniture have fine English scrollwork engraving. The action has carved percussion fences, the pistol grip trigger guard acts as the rotary underlever, and the locks each have blued sliding safety catches. The well figured stock and forearm are checkered, and the length of pull is 14 3/8 inches. The initial escutcheon on the bottom of the buttstock is inscribed with a coronet and monogram. It comes in a factory oak case with a trade label with hand marked loading information and a second handwritten label indicating where powder could be purchased in Calcutta and Bombay indicating this rifle was likely taken to India at some point. The case contains a variety of equipment for loading and maintenance.

Condition: Very fine with 90% brown finish and distinct Damascus twist patterns along the barrel group which has some soft spots and small patches of minor surface oxidation, 75% plus original case colors with particularly vibrant colors in the protected areas, some mottled patina, and crisp engraving and marking; remnants of original bright blue finish on the heel of the buttplate and gray and brown patina on the balance, and general minor marks and scratches throughout. The wood is also very fine and has crisp checkering, some minor edge wear (including some small chips on the forearm), light pressure marks and scratches, and smooth oiled finish. Mechanically excellent. The case and accessories are fine with mild storage wear.

Perfection. An awesome 12g by James Purdey & Sons …

November 5, 2018 by Gregg

12 gauge James Purdey & Sons SxS shotgun with extra finish, 1920

If there were a Hall of Fame for sporting guns, this SxS would be in it.

It’s a 12 gauge James Purdey & Sons built in 1920 and upgraded with “Extra Finish” on the action and fences (or “detonating”, in Purdey lingo). The oak & leather case is lined in red velvet and it looks like all the original accessories are present.

It’s all original, pretty unmessed with, and one of finest doubles I’ve seen.

12 gauge James Purdey & Sons SxS shotgun with extra finish, 1920v — 12 gauge James Purdey & Sons SxS shotgun with extra finish, 1920

Solved! The mystery of Barré, one of Purdey’s best engravers…

August 15, 2018September 23, 2018 by Gregg

JAMES PURDEY & SONS BEST BARRE ENGRAVE SIDELOCK SXS HAMMER SHOTGUN 12 GAUGE KING ALFONSO OF SPAIN

Over the last twenty years, double-gun collectors have had many of their greatest mysteries solved, like the story behind the Czar’s Parker and the whereabouts of Bo Whoop, Nash Buckingham’s famous Fox shotgun.

In the SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 issue of Shooting Sportsman magazine, author Douglas Tate has solved another mystery: who was The mysterious Purdey engraver Aristide Barré?

I don’t know how many guns Barré engraved for Purdey. The ones featured in the Shooting Sportsman article are in the Royal Gunroom at Sandringham. Other Barré-engraved Purdeys are in private collections, and every now and then, one pops up on the market, like the 12g hammer pigeon gun you see here.

This 12g Purdey with 32″ barrels was ordered in 1909 by King Alphonso XIII of Spain. According to Christie’s, Barré’s is mentioned as the engraver in the maker’s records.

Cross pollination in British gunmaking: A 12g “by” Lang & Hussey…

July 28, 2018 by Gregg

LANG & HUSSEY UNDER-LEVER SIDELOCK NON-EJECTOR 12 GAUGE WOODWARD-STYLE SHOTGUN

James Woodward was one of the giants of British gunmaking. In 1872, he founded his firm–James Woodward & Sons. In 1948, after having built some of the finest doubles to ever come out of the UK, the company was sold to James Purdey & Sons. In the 76 years in between, Woodward built around 5000 guns. Even though the gun you see here is engraved Lang & Hussey, I’m almost certain it was made partly-or totally-by Mr. Woodward’s firm.

Why? Because it’s just too similar to one of Woodward’s most famous guns: the “Automatic”. It even has Woodward’s signature arcaded fences and T safety. And like all top-quality, hammerless Woodwards, it was made with Whitworth fluid-steel barrels.

The Woodward “Automatic” action was based on a design patented by J. Woodward and T. Southgate in 1876, and it cocks “automatically” when you open the gun by pushing forward on the lever wrapping over the triggerguard.

BTW: To learn more about James Woodward & Sons, check out James Woodward and the Vertical Double

LANG & HUSSEY UNDER-LEVER SIDELOCK NON-EJECTOR: Here is rare Lang & Hussey 12 gauge under-lever sidelock non-ejector, built in 1898. The receiver features beautiful border and acanthus scroll engraving, arcaded fences, side-clips, and gold-inlaid cocking indicators. The number “4” is inlaid in gold on rib and tang. The gun locks up tight, and has a doll’s head extension. The 30″ barrels have 2 1/2″ chambers and shiny bores, choked .040/.040. The rib is engraved: LANG & HUSSEY Ld. 102 NEW BOND STREET. LONDON. MADE OF SIR JOSEPH WHITWORTH’S FLUID PRESSED STEEL. The stock is very pretty French walnut, and has various dings and indentations, but is solid with no cracks. It measures 1 1/2″ x 2 1/8″ x 14 1/4″ over a vintage solid red pad. There is slight cast off. The gun weighs 7 lbs 3 oz. Price: $2,600

Auction alert: The world’s oldest Boss shotgun…

April 25, 2018 by Gregg

Oldest known Boss? A THOMAS BOSS PERCUSSION SIDELOCK SXS SHOTGUN, Cal. 16 Ga. S# 118.

People say the past is gone. But that’s not true, especially if you own this 16 bore Thomas Boss double-barrel percussion shotgun. It puts the past right in your hands.

Built around 1833, this shotgun may be the oldest Boss firearm in existence. And for a gun that old, it appears to be in excellent shape and pretty original. Pretty amazing.

Back when it was built, percussion shotguns were cutting edge and Manhattan barely existed as a city above 14th Street. This double would have been ordered by a wealthy gentleman with time on his hands.

Thomas Boss, the founder of Boss & Co, would have had his hands all over it, would have had his all over this gun as it was being made, fabricating and fitting some parts and inspecting everything to make sure it was top-notch. Just imagine him clicking the hammers into place and pulling the triggers–the same hammers and triggers your hands would touch if you owned this gun.

An ex-Manton worker, Thomas Boss was one of the gunmakers who made London famous for quality, elegant firearms. You can see how he did it when you look at this elegant and beautifully built double.

Lot 1027: THOMAS BOSS PERCUSSION SIDELOCK SXS SHOTGUN: Cal. 16 Ga. S# 118. Bbls. 27″. Color case hardened action & hammers. Blued furniture. Twist Steel bbls. Dbl. triggers. Rib wears inscription “T. BOSS No. 1 GROSVENOR STREET, NEW BOND STREET, LONDON”. Action wears elegant vine & leaf, early Boss style, engraving w/ beautifully engraved dolphin hammers. Top & bottom tangs are also ornately engraved. Ramrod stop indicates this is original bbl. length. Ramrod appears original. Bore diameter: right – .662″, left – .667″. Consignor states that this is the earliest known Boss gun.

CONDITION: locks retain substantial amounts of case color which appears original. Bbls. retain significant brown finish highlighting the Twist pattern. All markings regarding maker are crisp & legible. Locks are strong & crisp. The beautifully figured stock retains crisp flat top checkering w/ numerous scuff marks. The finish remains strong. Edges of forend show two sm. voids. Bores show light pitting. (01-14725/TB). ANTIQUE. Estimate: $800-1200.

5 doubles you don’t want to miss…

April 16, 2018 by Gregg

James Purdey & Sons, London, 20 Gauge Sidelock Best Quality O/U Shotgun: Gun #26597. 28-inch Length of Barrel, 15-inch Length of Pull 1 7/16″ Drop at Comb, 2″ Drop at Heel. 6lbs 6oz. Manufacture’s case included Price: $69,500

BOSS & CO, LONDON, BEST SXS 20 GAUGE SIDELOCK SHOTGUN: 26 1/2″ BARRELS 006 AND 010 2 3/4 SINGLE TRIGGER EJECTORS SPLINTER FOREARM ENGLISH GRIP MAKERS CASE EXCELLENT ORIGINAL CONDITION 5LBS 4 OZ X 2 1 1/4″ x 1 1/2″ X 14″ LOP. Price: $59,500

SanGiorgio – Model Vega – High Quality Modern SxS Hammer Gun – Great for Clays: 1987 – Ameria SanGiorgio – Gardone V.T. – Vega – Hammer Gun– 12ga, 28” M / F, Extractors, Hand Filed Rib, Double Triggers – Front Trigger Articulated, Hand Detachable Locks, LOP 15-1/4″ to Factory Pad, Drop 1-3/8″ to 2-3/8″, Slight Cast Off, Weight 7 lbs. 12 oz. Excellent Condition: Very Tight. Price: $4975

Webley & Scott Ltd. ~ Side by Side ~ 12 Ga Side by Side Boxlock Shotgun: This Webley & Scott Ltd. 12 gauge shotgun S/N 1113XX was ordered and started October 12, 1926. It is a boxlock with crossbolt – Pigeon Grade No.300 gun fitted with an Anson forend. 2 3/4 ‘ chambers. 30 inch fixed choke barrels with a flat rib. This gun was first sold July 10, 1928. It is in very good condition and a great addition to anyone who might collect side by side shotguns. The preceding information was taken from a report presented by Gallyon & Sons Ltd. / U.K. dated July 31, 2008. Price: $2,999.99

Manufacturer: Made in England.

Caliber: 12 Ga.
Chambers: 2 3/4 inch.
Metal Condition: Very good with some minor surface handling marks. Trigger guard and bottom tang are discolored.
Wood Condition: Very good with light checkering wear and light handling marks.
Bore Condition: Both are very clean, bright and shiny.
Barrels: 30 inches with a solid knurled top rib.
Triggers: Double.
Stock: Diamond checkered grip walnut round knob. Case colored receiver is lightly engraved with border and a little scroll.
Stock Dimensions:
LOP 14 1/2 inches. DAC 1 7/16 inch DAH 2 1/16 inch
Fore End: Diamond checkered grip walnut splinter.
Butt Pad: Horizontal grooved black metal. Has some light scratch/use marks.
Weight: 7 lbs. 8 oz.
Sights: Brass bead front.
Chokes: Fixed chokes. Right barrel is Modified. Left barrel is Full.
Extras: Comes with a Webley & Scott Ltd. hard locking case. The case is lined with green felt and has a Webley & Scott Ltd. information sign, two metal snap caps, a two-piece wooden cleaning rod with 4 cleaning attachments, a metal oil bottle, and a box of Farlo’s

Ithaca ~ N.I.D. ~ 20 Ga. ~ SxS ~ Double Barrel Shotgun: This is an Ithaca side by side 20 gauge shotgun manufactured in 1927 based on serial number. There is a dent in the left barrel and has been deemed safe to fire from a gunsmith. This is a great not-so-rare Ithaca that would look great in any collection. Price: $599.99

Manufacturer: 1927
Caliber: 20 Ga
Chambers: 2 3/4
Metal Condition: Great for its age
Wood Condition: Good – Shows its age
Bore Condition: Bright and Shiny
Barrels: 26
Triggers: Double Trigger
Stock: Walnut with Checkering on Pistol Grip
Stock Dimensions:
OAL 42″, LOP 13.5
Fore End: Walnut with Checkering to Match
Butt Pad: Plastic Plate
Weight: 6 lbs.
Sights: Front Bead

“A Striking Innovation in Modern Gunnery”!

March 3, 2018 by Gregg

Super rare Boss & Co "O.U. Gun" catalog, 1920s — Super rare Boss & Co “O.U. Gun” catalog, 1930s

Not all revolutions happen quickly. Some, like the way over-under shotguns overcame SxSs to dominate the world of doubles, took decades to happen.

In many ways, the over-under revolution began in 1909. That’s when Boss & Co introduced its OU. While Boss & Co didn’t invent these shotguns, they did perfect it.

Firearms with stacked barrels have been around for hundreds of years, and Merkel started building breechloading, centerfire OUs in the 1890s. But Boss was the first gunmaker to build an OU with the sleek looks and a dynamic feel that could compete with best-quality British side-by-sides.

To date, Boss has built 500+ OUs. It’s not that hard to find them on the used market. That is not the case with the Boss OU catalog you see here. This is the only copy of this 1930s-era catalog I’ve seen in two decades.

Check it out for a unique glimpse into how Boss sold their OU shotguns back in the day.

BTW: If you have one of these catalogs or any other Boss catalogs/promotional materials (or shotguns) you would like to sell, please drop me an email at gregg@dogsanddoubles.com