rifle | Dogs and Doubles

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

January 16, 2023 by Gregg

JULES BURY BEST SIDE-BY-SIDE SIDELOCK SHOTGUN: From Liege in Belgium and hand finished by one of Belgium’s most distinguished gunmakers Lebeau Courally. H&H style action with exquisite engraving and beautiful wood. Manufacturer: Jules Bury Model: Best Caliber Info: 12 Gauge Ejectors: Yes Condition: New Metal Condition: New Barrels: 28 3/8″ Action: Sidelock: Side by Side Triggers: Double Gauge: 12 Gauge Stock Comb: 1 1/2″ Stock Heel: 2 1/4″ Stock Cast: Off Fore End: Splinter LOP: 14 3/4″ Rib: Concave File Cut Chokes: IC/M Price: $22,050*

John Rigby & Co. SxS Hammer Dbl. Rifle: #1220A JOHN RIGBY & CO. DBL. RIFLE,450 X 3 1/4”, SN 156XX, 26” bbl., receiver nicely engraved in a floral pattern, outside hammers with hammer safeties, folding peep sight folds to use open sights, 2 leaf rear sight, ivory bead front sight, checkered PG stock with PG cap, checkered steel buttplate, rib marked “John Rigby & Comp. Dublin & London”, exc. bores, 99% blue on bbls., 95% casehardening colors on receiver thinning, retracking firing pins, oak & leather John Rigby & Comp. case with label inside lid, complete with mold, cartridges & re & decapper, bullet seating tool, extra parts in ivory container, top of case stamped with “JA Jameson”. Antique: Yes Rifle Caliber: .450/400 3 1/4″. Price: $12,000*

Parker – GHE Grade, SxS, **RARE #1 Frame**, 12ga. 28″ Barrels Choked F/F:
Special steel barrels, perfect untouched screws, 20% case color hardening, numerous small nicks in wood, dogs head butt plate, double trigger, auto ejector, splinter forend, completely original gun, pistol grip, just a very nice honest gun from an estate, very nice condition. 6 lbs. 12 oz. 14″ x 1 3/4″ x 3″ Price: $5,250*

Browning Superposed Superlight 20 ga Grade 1 OU Shotgun: Offered for sale is a 20-gauge Browning Belgium Superposed Superlight manufactured in 1970. This dynamic upland bird gun has 26 ½ inch vented rib barrels, choked Improved Cylinder/Modified, 2 ¾ inch chambers. This Superlight sports a rounded frame, a slim field forearm, a straight walnut stock with a long tang trigger guard, safety tang with barrel selector, rubber recoil pad and grade 1 scroll engraving. The stock measures LOP 14 ½, DAC 1 1/2 and DAH 2 1/8. Overall, this gun weighs in at 6 lbs. This shotgun has a little character wear at the carry points and few scratches from days in the field but overall this is a nice Superposed that locks up good and tight. Shotgun Gauge: 20 Gauge Manufacturer: Browning Model: Superposed Superlight Grade I Barrel Length: 26 1/2″ Stock Comb: 1 1/2″ Stock Heel: 2 1/8″ LOP: 14 1/4″ Weight: 6 lbs Manufacture Date: 1970 Chokes: IC / Mod Price: $3,900*

RIZZINI AURUM SCALED FRAME 28GA 30” GAME SCENE & SCROLL ENGRAVED CASE COLORED ACTION EXCELLENT CONDITION IN BOX WITH ALL PAPERWORK AND ACCESSORIES: Rizzini Aurum 28ga 30″ vent rib barrels with excellent bores 3″ chamber All five original chokes cylinder-full LOP 14 1/2″ DAC 1 7/16″ DAH 2 1/4″ Cast off 1/4″ 5lbs 13 oz Game scene and scroll engraved case colored action. Original box with all paperwork and accessories. Excellent condition scaled frame gun with very little use. Price: $3,000

* FYI: DogsandDoubles.com is a not a gun dealer. We do not sell firearms. We do not have an FFL. The guns you see listed here are from Gunsinternational.com, a site DogsandDoubles.com is not affiliated with in any way. The accuracy of these listings from Gunsinternational.com has not been verified by Dogs and Doubles. All information and images have been provided by the sellers. Buyers are responsible for verifying the physical condition and specifications of the listed items. Dogs and Doubles suggests you and a qualified gunsmith physically inspect an item before purchasing.

Any statements made on DogsandDoubles.com regarding a firearm’s condition, originality, safety, value, or suitability to use are opinions only. These statements have not been verified. They are not guaranteed to be accurate or correct in any way.

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April 17, 2022 by Gregg

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

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

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

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

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

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February 27, 2022 by Gregg

Fantastic Prewar Boss Heavy Proof 12ga Pigeon Gun with original case- Sumner Engraved and choice in every respect:
Built in the late 1920’s at the peak of fine gunmaking, this London Best needs no introduction. An extremely fine 12ga Boss heavy proof pigeon gun made with 30″ Sir Joseph Whitworth Fluid steel chopper lump barrels that have beautiful hand filed top rib. Gun made with splinter forend with Anson type pushbutton release. The case hardened action is engraved in gorgeous rose and scroll and is very delicate and finely cut- most certainly by Sumner and a work of art to behold! The gun was made with double triggers, auto ejectors, safety. The engraved steel capped pistol grip buttstock is of extremely fine English Walnut with great grain and contrast and terminates with its original checkered butt. The gun is housed in what appears to be its original Oak and leather case with makers label on inside. The gun remains in excellent overall condition. Barrels retain nearly all of their factory quality restored finish. Action retains about 65% bold original case color. The stocks are sound, gorgeous figure, and retain about all of their hand rubbed finish. Bores are brilliant and shiny. Mechanics are crisp. Price: $35,950

J. Purdey Percussion 16 Bore SxS Double rifle: This antique Purdey double rifle is cased and has the original leather covered flask and oil bottle. The flask is marked “AM FLASK AND CAP CO” and the oil bottle is marked “James Dixon & Sons 212M”. The original key is present. The case shows it’s age, however the rifle has stood the test of time very well. There are case colors present on the locks as well as the breech. The locks have safeties and they exhibit strong case colors. The bores have 10 lands and groves and are simular to Henry Rifling and there is a light frosting in the bores. The original ebony ramrod is serial numbered to the gun. The gun weighs 8 pounds 1 ounce. The barrels are 29 3/8 inches long. It has a round cap box that is well engraved as is the rest of the gun. The screws have not been buggered. The rib is engraved “J. Purdy 314 1/2 Oxford Street London” The English checkering is strong and in good condition and the barrels are stub Damascus. Guns of this type do not come along very often. A great buy on today’s market.Price: $12,000.99

WILLIAM CASHMORE SCALLOPED BOXLOCK EJECTOR 20 GAUGE 2 BARREL SET: SN# 202XX, GAME SCENE ENGRAVED, 26″ SOLID RIB BARRELS (.009 AND .009 CONSTRICTIONS) 2 3/4″ CHAMBERS, 30″ SOLID RIB BARRELS (.011 AND .011 CONSTRICTIONS) 2 3/4″ CHAMBERS, BOTH BARRELS NP 1 OZ 2 3/4″, 4 POINT LOCK UP, SIDE CLIPS, NO SAFETY, EJECTORS, SPLINTER FOREARM, ENGLISH GRIP, EXCELLENT CONDITION WITH SOME LIGHT HANDLING, 5LBS 10 OZ W/ 26″ BARRELS, 6LBS 0 OZ W/ 30″ BARRELS, 2 7/8″ DAH, 1 1/4″ DAC, 14 1/2″ LOP, NO CASE Price: $11,500

CHURCHILL 20 from 1954- TOTALLY ORIG in EXC PLUS COND- BOXLOCK EJECT w/ CHOPPER LUMP Bbls.- ORIG 95% BLUE & CASE COLORS- EXC Bbls. INSIDE & OUT-CASE: #7285, 20 Bore, E. J. Churchill (Gunmakers) Ltd., Orange Street, Gunworks, Leicester Square, London: A Churchill 20 Bore Game Gun in Boxlock Ejector Made in 1954 That Remains in Excellent Condition, 25″ Ejector Chopper Lump Barrels, Proved in Birmingham at 1 ounce and 2 3/4″, .614 .003 & .016″ (Skt.I & Imp.Mod.), Original 2 3/4″ chambers, Wall thickness on both the right and left at .036″, Double triggers, Splinter forend with an Anson frontal release, Straight hand stock at 14 1/2 x 1 1/2 x 2 1/8″ over a near full face checkered butt, Cast-Off for the right hand; Swept comb and stock with the top tang, top lever and the trigger guard off-set to the right from a true straight line of the barrels and receiver, This gun points like a dream and is near perfect for a right hand shooter, Great 20 Bore weight at 6 lbs. 1 oz., Very nice wood, 85% coverage of period scroll engraving, The original barrel blue at 95%, The original case colors at 95% and remain bright and vivid, The original stock finish at 96-97%, The checkering is at 99%, The barrels inside & out remain in excellent plus condition and completely free of any dings or pits, The striking on the barrels are excellent, It is cased in the original maker’s leather cornered leather trunk with the proper trade labels, The barrels remain on the face, They have a pronounced chime. On walk up bird shooting over dogs 25″ barrels work absolutely as efficient as longer barrels in the hands of the average upland hunter. If you can prove me differently, I will give you this gun plus pay the shipping to you. Here is a totally original game gun inside and out that remains in excellent condition with mechanics that will last another lifetime. An early post-war boxlock with chopper lump barrels is not encountered very often. Price: $6,600

Engraved Ithaca 3E Flues with 30 Inch Chain Damascus Barrels Made 1919:
Guns by Sally-always the best for less. We are so proud to offer this fine example the classic American double made in Ithaca, New York. The Ithaca name has a very loyal following, and this example can show us why. This is the 3E grade, moving up the grade scale enough for some gorgeous walnut, truly unique game scene engraving, just as unique checkering patterns, and the icing on the cake is that she is fitted with 30 inch Chain Damascus barrels. This is a very striking firearm, and can get your attention from across the room. Even the top rib stands out, with its deep and distinctive machined matting. Made in the year of our Lord 1919, it does not look like it is 103 years old. The original blue is mostly strong, with some thinning at carry points and near the muzzle. The receiver bears sharp, high contrast engraving set against generous amounts of case color. The checkering is very good, and the Damascus pattern is just as bold as the rest of the gun. From the large ivory bead to the original Ithaca butt plate, this shotgun screams high grade American double. The lever resides to the right of center, ejectors toss the empties, and she is choked old school, full and full. Built for the long run, she weighs in at just under 7 1/2 pounds. Drops are 1 5/8 and 2 3/4 inches, with an LOP of 14 inches. Chambers are 2 3/4 inches, and RST loads can allow this beauty to keep knocking down birds for years to come. This fine double represents a true bargain in this category. While you can spend many times this amount for a high grade double, they won’t get any more attention in front of your safe than this Fluesy. If you have been looking for the right classic Ithaca to collect, for investment, or for a classy hunt, then look no further. Price: $2800

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November 7, 2021November 6, 2021 by Gregg

John Rigby SxS Double Rifle Underlever 500 BPE: Jones Underlever. All original, Original finish. This gun has blued barrels engraved with a band of stylized foliage at each breech. Broad file cut matted sighting rib with rear sight with single folding leaf and bead front sight. Border and scroll engraved casehardened action with Jones Patent rotary underlever and carved percussion fences. Border and scroll engraved casehardened non-rebounding back action locks each with blued safety catch and signed “JNO. RIGBY & Co.”. Very well figured pistol grip stock with checkered grip and forearm. Price: $13,995

Merkel 203E 20 Gauge – LUXUS SIDELOCK, 1952, 99%, GAME SCENE, Vintage Firearms Inc: Year 1952, 20 Gauge, 6lbs 3oz, Chokes IC/IM, LOP 14 1/2″, DAH 2 11/16″, DAC 1 1/2″ Serial Number: 36585 Merkel over/under shotguns have been dominating the European market since 1924. Of the various grades offered by this famed manufacturer, the 203E was the first grade in the lineup with full sidelock action, hand-detachable locks, Kirsten cross-bolts, double underlug barrels, beautifully figured European walnut stocks finely checkered, horn grip cap and butt plate, and slender three-piece forend wood. This gun, sn36585 built in 1952, is the LUXUS MODEL POSSESSING DEEPLY CHISELED GAME SCENE ENGRAVING, ORNATE CARVINGS AT THE WRIST ON THE BUTTSTOCK, AND ARTICULATED FRONT TRIGGER. Most gunners are aware that the earlier Merkel guns are superior to any put out in the 21rst century. This Merkel 203E Luxus is in perfect mechanical condition with super-strong ejectors, the triggers are crisp, the barrels are tight on the hinge pin and breech face like a new gun. This gun has barely been fired and shows no signs of wear anywhere. ALL FINISHES ARE AT LEAST 99% AND ARE FACTORY FINISHES…NO RESTORATIONS ANYWHERE ON THE GUN. The deeply chiseled engraving is profuse and fully covers the action, showing fine foliate and oak leaf engraving surrounding encapsulating game scenes. The barrels at the breech are adorned with finely cut oak leaf engraving, as is the trigger guard. The hand-detachable locks are easily removed allowing easy access for cleaning, inspection, and repair. The inletting in the beautifully figured French walnut is done to perfection without a flaw or split anywhere. The wood-to-metal fit is superb and masterfully done. This is a BEST GUN in the way of beauty and workmanship. The modern steel barrels are of the highest quality and able to handle any of the modern factory loads, including any of the soft non-toxic shot readily available today. The 26” barrels are choked Improved Cylinder and Light Modifed…the perfect upland chokes. Using RST spreader loads in the top barrel and you have an incredible grouse gun. The bores are perfect mirror without flaw. The stock dimensions are modern and will fit most. See the specifications below. We can install a fine leather covered pad for those who may need a longer LOP. This gun weighs 6lbs. 3oz. and balances dead on the hinge pin and handles like a much lighter gun. She is amazing in looks and dynamics. There are few of these guns to be found and one in this condition is usually priced at well over $15,000. Price: $13,750

JOHN WILKES BEST BOXLOCK EJECTOR 16 GA / 28″ BBLS: Chambers: 2 1/2″, Rib Design: CONCAVE, Weight: 5lbs 14oz Bore/Chokes, Right/Bottom:.661/ .000 CYL., Left/Top:.661/ .010 SKEET 2 Stock Dimensions Drop At Comb: 1 5/8″, Drop At Heel: 2″ Special Features: ROSE & SCROLL ENGRAVED CASE HARDENED ACTION EJECTORS WELL FIGURED STRAIGHT GRIP STOCK PIGSKIN LEATHER COVERED RECOIL PAD SPLINTER FOREARM AUTO SAFETY CONDITION: EXCELLENT Circa:1926/ SERIAL # 9811. Price: $8495

Parker Reproduction 20 GA 2 Barrel Set – DHE 28″, 26″ Double Triggers: 14.25″ 1st Barrel – 28″ Mod & Full 2nd Barrel -26″ S&S In wonderful condition. Soft case included. Price: $6995

Henry Holland 12 Gauge SxS Underlever: 30″ barrels C/C. Beautiful damascus pattern on barrels. Great bores. Finely engraved action, locks and hammers. 90% case colored action, locks and hammers. Tiger striped stock with original butt plate.
1 1/2″ X 2″ X 14 3/8″. Price: $5300

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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

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May 16, 2021 by Gregg

Exceptionally fine, lightweight high original condition Parker DHE 12ga Game gun – Straight Stock, Parker SST, great wood and perfect dimensions: Absolutely beautiful high original condition Parker DHE 12ga gun in a rare configuration. RARE Transition gun NOT marked Parker anywhere on the frame! Just a few known like this!!!

This gun made in early 1932 with 28″ Titanic barrels on a 1-1/2 frame. Made with splinter forend, original Parker SST, auto ejectors, straight grip buttstock with original leather faced pad. The gun is beautifully engraved in standard DHE 12ga pattern with pheasants on trigger plate.

Overall the gun remains in superb high original condition with more than 95% bold original case color. Barrel blue shows some handling marks at 95% original, and barrels are undented and bores are brilliant and shiny. Stocks are sound with minor handling marks and retain more than 97% of their original finish. The pad is hardening and appears original. Loaded with original trigger guard blue which is toning at grip. Checkering is crisp as we expect to find on a very lightly used gun like this. Mechanics are crisp. If you have been looking for a great lightweight and dynamic Parker, you know guns in this shape are near impossible to source. Straight grip is the cherry on top with this rare gun! Please don’t hesitate to contact me at (704) 280-2382 with any questions or reasonable offers on this fine Parker. Price: $9250

DOUBLE BARREL PERCUSSION RIFLE MADE BY HORSLEY OF YORK: A very interesting gun. Barrels only measure about 17 inches. Bores are about 40 caliber. Gun is in excellent condition. Gun is finely engraved with scroll work on the hammers, sideplate and upper tang. Gun features hammer locks mounted on the sideplate. Has a 3-leaf express rear sight with an of the period mounted scope which matches the Damascus pattern on the barrel. Nicely checkered forearm and buttstock are in very nice condition. Steel shotgun style buttplate. Overall metal has about 75% Damazien pattern on the barrel. Lock and upper tang retain about 75% case colors. Half the blue remains on the trigger guard which has a lion engraved on it. This is a high quality rifle and in fine condition. Price: $ 7,775.

Parker 20Ga. VH SxS Shotgun: Built in 1926. This gun has 28″ Vulcan steel barrels choked modified (.015″) and full (.025″) with 25/8″ chambers. The gun is built on an O frame and weighs 6-0. The gun is in original condition retaining traces of the original case color in the protected areas,95% of the original barrel blue,and 95% of the original wood finish. The stock still retains the original dogs head buttplate. The action is tight and the barrels on face. The bores are mint and free of any dents or pits. This is a fine lightweight Parker for the shooter who actually uses his guns. It would make a great all around upland gun and a fun gun for vintage clays shoots. Price: $3295

Ithaca NID SxS Shotgun 16ga: Very good plus overall condition sporting original finish to metal. Light coat of varnish added to wood. Thinning original blue to barrels. Chamber: 2 – 3/4″ Choke: Full and Cylinder Drop at Comb: 1 – 5/8″ Drop at Heel: 3″ Length of Pull: 14″ with extractor.

This Ithaca NID No. 2 Grade SxS Shotgun was made by the Ithaca Gun Company in Ithaca, New York in 1940. The NID No. 2 Grade incorporates a walnut checkered pistol grip stock with black hard rubber grip cap and Ithaca logo marked hard rubber buttplate. This vintage design also features a walnut checkered splinter forearm with friction release, fluid steel barrels with matted rib and bead front sight, and extractors, and barrels marked on flats with Ithaca choke codes “4” and “2” for Full and Modified. Case hardened Boxlock frame depicts bird imagery and scrolled No. 2 style engraving. This valuable shotgun also has double triggers and an automatic safety. Price: $2,295.

B.C My Luck ~ Model M ~ 12 GA. ~ SxS Boxlock Shotgun: Chambers: 2 3/4″ Chamber, Metal Condition: Good, Wood Condition: Good, Bore Condition: Good, Barrels: 28″ Barrel, Triggers: Double, Stock Dimensions:, 14″ Length Of Pull, Fore End: Checkered Wood, Butt Pad: Plastic Butt Plate, Weight: 6lb, Sights: Front Bead, Chokes: Left: Cylinder / Right: Full. Price: $449.97

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November 29, 2020 by Gregg

F.lli Piotti King I 20 Gauge Sidelock SxS: 28″ Chokes: IC – M L.O.P. : 14 3/4″ Drop: 1 1/2″C x 2 1/4″H Weight: 6 lbs 4 oz Ser. #: 9189 Stock #: 852. Price: $22,000

Gebruder Merkel 12 Gauge – MOD. 127E, PRE-WAR SIDELOCK SIDE-BY-SIDE, MINTY: Year 1926, 12 Gauge, 7lbs 2oz, Chokes F/F, LOP 14 1/4″, DAH 2 3/4″, DAC 1 5/8″, Serial Number: 14777. I have been collecting, buying, and selling fine shotguns for over 30 years. It is a treasure hunt extraordinaire that I have enjoyed immensely. There are times when you think you have seen it all, and then you come across a truly rare and amazing shotgun. Merkel has been building fine firearms since 1898 and built its first side x side in 1914. Mostly known for their fine shotguns made post-WWII after the lifting of the Iron Curtain, it is their PRE-WAR guns that collectors and shooters covet most. Pre-war Gerbruder Merkel is associated with finely crafted over/under guns more than the side x side guns. I have seen many of their over/unders. However, I was unaware of their BEST GUN sidelock side x sides known as the Model 127E as shown here with the fine Merkel we are offering for sale today. This Merkel, sn14777 built in 1926, remains in incredible factory original condition with 99% factory barrel blue, 99% vivid, bold factory case color, 99% charcoal blue trigger guard, and 98% factory finish remaining on the wonderfully figured European walnut stocks. This is a Holland & Holland style 9-pin sidelock action, complete with beaded fences, sculpted bolster on the frame, cocking indicators, and ALL GOLD-WASHED INTERNALS, INCLUDING THE EJECTOR RODS, EJECTOR HAMMERS, COCKING RODS, TRIGGERS, AND ALL PARTS OF THE LOCKS INCLUDING THE PINS THAT SHOW TO THE OUTSIDE. You just don’t see these features on anything but the company’s finest offering of the day. The engraving is the most detailed and perfectly executed rose and scroll engraving I have witnessed from any maker in the world. Study the photos on our and you will see what I mean. The gun is in as new condition both visually and mechanically. This is a VFI CERTIFIED GUN WITH A 90 DAY MECHANICAL WARRANTY. We have stripped the action and forend to its smallest parts, Ultrasonic cleaned the old, dried oil from all the parts, inspected all for function and integrity, lubricated all and reassembled. The barrels have a wedge of engraving on the Krupp Steel rib, are tight on face and the hinge pin like a new gun, with ribs tight and barrels that ring true. See the specifications below for stock measurements, chokes, barrel wall thickness, etc. This is a rare gun, and a rare opportunity to own the finest Merkel has ever offered as a named Model 127E. Thanks for looking! Price: $17,950

Whitworth Company Limited .451 SxS Percussion Double Rifle Cased: This one of very few percussion double rifles built by the Whitworth company, the pair of barrels were built out of one bar of steel! No rib, regulated in the boring! This rifle is cased in the original cased and has been shot by Ken Owen as well as myself and the owner. 485-500 grain bullets, hex bores that are very clean, 1 standing, 5 folded to a front sight that is adjustable for windage. The action is clean with stalking safe and engraved Whitworth crown detail, clean screws, original nitre blue on the safeties. The barrels are 26″ with what appears to be original blue, a few rack/ handling marks, the ramrod is period correct. The stock is very stable with no oil soaking, no cracks, good chequering, original appearing oil finish with scattered handling marks and dents, 14 1/2″ length of pull to a steel plate with good blue. This rifle is wonderful at the shoulder with no excessive drop and wonderful balance. The sights come up as a modern rifle would. The Case is in fair condition. 9lbs 10oz. Price: $15,000

H. S. Greenfield & Son Matched Pair Lightweight 12g SxS Boxlock: H. S. Greenfield & Son, 4 & 5 Upper Bridge Street, Canterbury, Kent consecutively numbered matched pair of lightweight game guns with 26″ ejector dovetail lump barrels with Churchill ribs. Birmingham proved at .729, 3 1/4 Tons, 2 3/4″ chambers. Both sets of barrels exhibit excellent bores. Bores and chokes are identical on both guns. Bores measure .732 on the right and .730 on the left. Choked .009 [IC] on the right and .019 [M] on the left. Fancy back scalloped receivers retain 90% vivid original color case hardening and 90% coverage of Holland & Holland style scroll engraving. Gold inlayed #1 & #2 on receiver, barrels, and forend on both guns respectively. Barrel, trigger guard, and floorplate blue remains at 98% on both guns. Stocked in nicely figured English Walnut with good color and contrast. Receiver drop points. Initialed stock ovals. Buttstocks show light field use with slightly more on the #1 gun. Lop is 14 1/2″ to leather covered pads on both. DAC-1 1/2″ DAH-2 1/8″ Cast off 1/2″ Both weigh 5lb 15oz. This is an outstanding and exactly matched consecutively numbered pair from an obviously very talented provincial maker that remain in high condition. Outstanding upland bird guns that you can carry all day. Top drawer stuff. I just doesn’t get any better than this. Cased in their original monogramed leather motor case with canvas cover and cleaning rod also in very good condition. Price: $9850

16g Parker VHE, SxS, 6 lbs. 9 oz: Serial Number: 158831, Ejectors: Yes, Barrels: 26 inches, Action: SE, Triggers: Double Trigger, Gauge: 16 Gauge, Stock Comb: 1 1/2 inches, Stock Heel: 2 3/8 inches, Fore End: Splinter, LOP: 14 1/4 inches, Weight: 6 lbs. 9 oz. Price: $4,500

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

June 7, 2020 by Gregg

A GALAZAN – BEST BOSS O/U , 20 Gauge FANTASY ENGRAVED: CREATIVE ARTS FAUSTI ENGRAVED 29″ SOLID RIB 012 AND 017 2 3/4 SINGLE TRIGGER EJECTORS FIELD FOREARM ENGLISH GRIP CHECKERED BUTT WITH ENGRAVED HEEL AND TOE PLATES INCREDIBLE ENGRAVING AND WOOD NEW UNFIRED IN MAKERS CASE 6LBS 9 OZ X 2 3/8″ X 1 1/2″ X 14 1/2″. Price: $39,500

Parker Reproduction BHE SxS 20 Gauge Shotgun: Cased. 0 Frame. Serial Number: 20-0059. Ejectors: Yes. Barrels: 26 inches. Triggers: Double Triggers. Stock Comb: 1 1/8 inches. Stock Heel: 2 inches. Fore End: Splinter. LOP: 14 3/4 inches. Weight: 6 lbs. 8 oz. Price: $10,500

Thomas Bland SLE 20 Gauge: 28″ Chokes: IC – M L.O.P. : 14 3/4″ Drop: 1 1/2″ C x 2 1/4″ H Weight: 5 lbs 6 oz Ser. #: 17525 Price: $8,950

Beretta 689 Express 9.3X74R Over & Under Rifle

Beretta 689 Express 9.3X74R Over & Under Double Rifle: Listed as used, but in as new condition with Beretta hard foam lined case. Unsurpassed Beretta quality features solid rib, nicely colored, case hardened receiver, jeweled action, iron sights, claw mounts, double triggers, richly grained, satin finished and checkered walnut stock and fore end, sling bases with quick detachable loops, and factory recoil pad. All this accompanied by a Zeiss Digital-Z 4X32 T* scope with integral mounting rail. Appears unfired. As always, let the pictures be your guide to condition. Always glad to answer questions. Price: $7500

RUGER RED LABEL 28 GA., 28” BARRELS, 5 CHOKE TUBES & WRENCH, OUTSTANDING WOOD, AS NEW IN THE BOX WITH OWNERS MANUAL: Price: $2,595

Watch: Ron Spomer shoots a Hoenig Rotary Round Action double rifle …

March 21, 2020 by Gregg

Here’s an odd double rifle I would like shoot. It’s a Hoenig Rotary Round action–the quirky vision of a man named George Hoenig. Watch as Ron Spomer of Ron Spomer Outdoors tries out this one in 9.3x74R and then gentleman Mr Hoenig himself.

Watch: Ron Spomer shoots a Hoenig Rotary Round Action double rifle ... — Watch: Ron Spomer shoots a Hoenig Rotary Round Action double rifle …

Wow! Incredible condition on this Army & Navy 450BPE double rifle…

January 15, 2020January 14, 2020 by Gregg

Army & Navy - Webley & Scott - Deluxe 450 BPE - High Condition - All Original 1896 Rifle ! — Army & Navy – Webley & Scott – Deluxe 450 BPE – High Condition – All Original 1896 Rifle !

You don’t often you see a 100+-year-old double rifle in this kind of condition. Not only is it all original, but it also retains a ton of that original finish.

This gun was made by Webley & Scott for Army & Navy, a co-op that started in the 19th-century for military members. Army & Navy offered all kinds of firearms for its members, and Webley & Scott was one of the co-op’s biggest suppliers.

This rifle is chambered for .450 Black Powder Express (.450 3¹⁄₄-inch BPE), one of the most popular rounds of the late 19th century. Many different types of rifles were chambered for .450 BPE and these guns were used for everything from deer stalking in Scotland to elephant hunting in Africa. The round was replaced by the more potent .450 Nitro Express in 1898 (BTW: go here to see how the .450NE compares to a .470NE).

Along with the gun’s original finish and overall finish, a few things about it caught my eye, from the engraving and the ribbon fences to the wide top strap, the long top lever, and the toe-and-heel plates. While this wasn’t a best-quality gun in its day, it was a very nice one.

Army & Navy – Webley & Scott – Deluxe 450 BPE – High Condition – All Original 1896 Rifle: 26″ Steel Barrels with a Dolls Head Rib Extension Third Bite, Full-Length Rib with 1 Standing & 1 Folding Platinum Lined Rear Sights, Bushed Strikers, Lever Release Forend, Steel Engraved Grip Cap, Shadowline Cheek Piece, Sling Eyes, Double Triggers, 14 1/2″ LOP to an Engraved Steel Butt Plate, Weight 8 lbs. 7 oz. All Original Rifle – Built on the Great Webley action. Sold in 1896 for 40 Pounds Sterling! Bores look day one new. Tight and Sound in Every Regard. Lots of handling marks from being around for 123 years. Price: $9995

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.

Purdeys coming up at Poulin Auctions on 10/20 …

October 15, 2018 by Gregg

20 GAUGE J PURDEY EXTRA FINISH SIDELOCK SXS SHOTGUN, Poulinauctions.com, 10/20

Here’s something new I’m trying: gun videos.

This first one focuses on 4 Purdeys coming up at www.PoulinAuctions.com this Saturday, 10/20. There’s a nice, antique 20 gauge shotgun, a 12 gauge game gun, a 12 gauge Pigeon shotgun, and up last, a rare .360 Express underlever double rifle.

J. PURDEY & SONS SIDELOCK SXS .360 EXPRESS DOUBLE RIFLE, coming up at Poulin Auctions on 10/20/18.

Check it out and let me know what you think.

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

September 17, 2017September 17, 2017 by Gregg

Holland & Holland Royal .577 Side-by-Side Double Rifle

Holland & Holland Royal .577 Nitro Express Side-by-Side Double Rifle: Cased. Hensoldt-Wetzlar Diasta 4×32 scope. Price: $124,500
Serial Number: 35242
Caliber: 577
Ejectors: Yes
Barrels: 23 inches
Action: RE
Triggers: Double Triggers
Stock Comb: 1 5/8 inches
Stock Heel: 3 1/8 inches
Fore End: Splinter
Butt Pad: 7/8 inches
LOP: 14 1/4 inches
Weight: 12 lbs. 5 ounces

William Young, Bury St Edmunds, S’folk. Exceptional 19-bore double barreled flintlock sporting gun, ca. 1815: Weight: 5 Lbs. 15 oz. Superb 30” Damascus barrels retaining much of an original brown finish have excellent bores which appear to be unaltered from their original boring. Stepped-in breeches with platinum touch hole liners retain much of the original hardening color and show little evidence of use. One of the gold breech poincon is a replacement. Extremely fine locks show little use and feather springs retain traces of the original fire blue from being “drawn” after tempering. Stock shows lots of minor handling marks but retains virtually all of the original varnish. Original ramrod. Overall in beautiful , little used, condition retaining a fair amount of original finish throughout and in superb mechanical condition. Extremely fast ignition comparable in lock time to the best British maker’s of the day. This gun (each barrel) will still place 37% of a 1 oz. load of #6 shot on a 22”x 32” sheet of paper at 43 yds. using 2 ¼ drams of Goex fffg powder (1100 ft/sec). Compare that performance with your favorite modern sporting gun ….. you might be surprised at the results! These late British flintlock-era double guns are quite rare in this condition and you would be hard pressed to find a better example. Price: POR

John Blanch Sidelock SxS Shotgun with Stunning nitro proofed Damascus and Woodward snap action style forward under lever:This high grade English sidelock is just plain elegant and beautiful. Look at the pictures and see the stunning Damascus pattern and the wonderful wood, engraving, and fences, and I am sure you will agree. The nitro proofed bores are totally shiny and clean with no pitting. The Balance is perfect. I hunt with a forward underlever and find them very ergonomic. I probably will never go back to a top lever gun I like these guns so much. Price: $4,800
Serial Number: 5263
Ejectors: No
Barrels: 28
Barrel Type: Damascus
Action: Sidelock
Gauge: 12 gauge
Stock Comb: 1 1/2
Stock Heel: 2
Stock Cast: 3/16
LOP: 14 3/4″ to heel and
Weight: 6 lbs. 8 oz.
Choke Left: .034 full
Choke Right: Cylinder
Proof:Nitro: 2 1/2″ nitro
Minimum Wall Thickness Left: .025
Minimum Wall Thickness Right: .021

BERETTA – SO2 – 28″ Bbls – Double Triggers – Solid Vintage SidelocK OU: 12ga, 2-3/4″, 27-1/2″ IC / LM (.007 / .012) Boehler Steel Bbls, Ejectors, Double Triggers, Prince of Wales Grip, LOP 14-1/2″ Drop 1-1/2″ to 2-7/16″, Weight 6 lbs. 15 oz. A wooden spacer and Beretta butt plate have been fitted to extend the stock. The stock has NOT been cut. Very nice work. The stock is 13-7/8″ without the extension. So, remove the extension and add a pad and the stock will go almost 15″ with a standard 1″ pad. Excellent Condition. The stocks have been refinished. The barrels appear to be original. Price: $3550

CHARLES DALY M-500 SXS 12 GA 2 3/4″ SxS Shotgun: 28″ bbls, bright shiny smooth bores, fixed FULL/MOD chokes, blued finish, very nice checkered grip stock and forearm, double trigger, LOP (front trigger) – 14″, DAC – 1 3/4″, and DAH – 2 3/4″. This shotgun is in excellent condition. Price: $699

A tribute to Westley Richards tribute and Simon Clode …

December 23, 2016December 23, 2016 by Gregg

Stunning Westley Richards Droplock Double Rifle, 300 Sherwood, Treasure Grade

Simon Clode, Chairman & Managing Director or Westley Richards, passed away this week. In honor of the man and company he worked so hard to keep at the forefront of British gunmaking, I’m going to dedicated a few posts to Westley Richards’ fabulous guns.

To start, let’s leap back in time and check out this jaw-dropping, “Treasure Grade” Westley Richards droplock double rifle in 300 Sherwood. Made in 1912, it’s 100+ years old and still in stunning original condition.

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

October 9, 2016 by Gregg

HOLLAND&HOLLAND ROYAL DOUBLE RIFLE PRE WAR 500/465: MADE 1921 26″ BARRELS WITH GREAT BORES 1/4 RIB 3 LEAF EXPRESS SIGHT HOLLAND FLIP NIGHT SIGHT EJECTORS SPLINTER FOREARM PISTOL GRIP LONG BOTTOM TANG WITH ENGRAVED TRAP DOOR GRIP CAP EXTENDED TOP TANG EXCELLENT ORIGINAL CONDITION IN MAKERS CASE 10LBS 5 OZ X 14 1/8″ LOP. Price: $95,000

FABBRI – O/U PIGEON GUN IN 12 GAUGE – HAND MADE IN 1967: Here is a Fabbri “Tipo Piccione Extra”. This is a hand made gun of the finest quality, before Fabbri began using CNC machines. Barrels and Receiver are marked “ARMI FABBRI BRESCIA”. Engraving second to none with fine cut ribbons, roses and scroll. Case colored receiver exhibiting the majority of original case colors. Proof date code of XXIII indicating 1967 production date. Barrels are 29 1/2″. Bores are approximately .741 with 25/1000 (Imp Mod) for the under barrel and 43/1000 (Full) for the top. These were typical box pigeon chokes for that time period. Weight of the gun is 7 LBS 11 1/4 OZ. The gun is not formally cased, however a protective shipping case will be included. A high quality 4-way adjustable stock has been installed with the hardware polished to a high luster in keeping with the fine quality of the gun. Partial trades are possible on this gun with fair and reasonable valuations. Price: $25,000

CHARLES DALY (Lindner) 12ga 28″ SxS Prussian Shotgun: Price: $8,500
Make   CHARLES DALY (Lindner)
Model   Diamond Quality
Configuration   SXS
Gauge / Caliber   12 GA
Price   $8,500.00
Serial #   1390
Country of Origin   Germany
Barrel Length (in Inches)   28
Choke R/U   IM
Choke L/O   IM
Trigger   DT (Double)
Stock Configuration   Round Knob Semi-PG
Forearm Type   Splinter Forearm
Rib Type   Matted Concave Rib
Receiver Finish   Casehardened
Engraving Type   Fine Scroll Engraving with cameo game scenes on bottom
Other Options   Side clips, Cocking indicators, Drop points, Excelsior steel barrels, Gold oval in stock, Silvers pad, Horn tip on forearm and grip
Condition   Near EXC. Condition, all original finish
Weight   6#11oz
Dimensions   1 1/2 x 2 1/2 x 14 3/4 with 1/8 cast off
Other Details   A really nice example of Linder quality

AyA SXS 28 Gauge sidelock shotgun, 28" bbls — AyA SXS 28 Gauge sidelock shotgun, 28″ bbls

AyA SXS 28 Gauge shotgun, 28″ bbls: Sidelock double with full coverage rose and scroll engraving, Double Triggers auto ejectors, and cocking indicators. Has 28” modified/improved cylinder chopper lump barrels. The straight stock is finely checkered and nicely figured. A beautiful bird gun, in excellent condition with canvas hard case. Price: $4,995

Merkel Over/Under Rifle with Hensoldt Wetzlar Scope, 9.3x74R Price: $3,999.99
Manufacturer: Merkel — Made in the German Democratic Republic.
Caliber: 9.3x74R
Metal Condition: Fair with scratches and surface rust. The blue finish remains on the barrels, while there is some CCH remaining on the receiver.
Wood Condition: Good with handling marks.
Bore Condition: Shiny with good rifling.
Barrels: 25 1/2″
Stock: Checkered walnut.
Fore End: Checkered walnut.
Butt Pad: Factory black plastic.
Weight: 8-lbs., 14-ozs.
Sights: 4×32 Hensoldt Wetzlar Scope plus front bead and rear blade.
Item Location: Fort Worth, TX

Super rare: An Alexander Henry .303 hammerless double rifle…

October 5, 2016 by Gregg

Alexander Henry .303 "Duke of Atholl" best quality sidelock ejector double rifle — Alexander Henry .303 “Duke of Atholl” best quality sidelock ejector double rifle

Double rifles are another lust of mine. I’ve always wanted an Alexander Henry, and if I had to take it, this one would do just fine.

Alexander Henry was one of the most important gunmakers of the 19th century. These days, most of the sporting rifles you see from him have hammers like this one. Sidelock hammerless models, especially ones in .303, are very unusual.

(BTW: If you have an Alexander Henry double rifle or any other firearm you’d like to know more about, drop me an email. I would be happy to help you out: gregg@dogsanddoubles.com)

Alexander Henry .303 “Duke of Atholl” best quality sidelock ejector double rifle: 26″ chopperlump barrels with Metford rifling, proofed for 38 grains of Rifleite, an early nitro load. Excellent bores. Double triggers, automatic ejectors. Flat rib marked ” Alex. Henry Ltd. Makers to Her Majesty, Edinburgh and London”, single standing, one folding sight for 100 and 200 yards, auto-safe. The wonderfully proportioned sidelock action features the finest foliate style engraving, carved serpentine fences and gold cocking indicators. Beautifully endowed with rich vibrant case color throughout. Splinter forend with lever release, capped pistol grip, classic kidney cheekpiece stock of nicely figured walnut measures 14-1/8″ to a checkered butt with steel heel and toe plates. Stock oval bears original coat of arms. Completed in 1897 for the 7th Duke of Atholl, noteworthy that he was the only British nobility that was allowed his own standing army. Weighs 8lbs, 9oz. Cased in a later period canvas and leather trunk. Price: $17,900

Sorry, but no. A letter from E. J. Churchill Gunmakers…

June 30, 2016 by Gregg

The British gun trade has always had ups and downs, but the 1950s were especially tough for the industry. Coming off of the ruin of WW2 and the hard times that followed for all of Europe, a lot of gunmakers were having a tough time finding people to build their shotguns and rifles.

E.J. Churchill was one of them, and as you can read in this letter, they were having so much trouble that they were turning away work. This letter was sent to an American customer looking to have a Churchill Premier sidelock double rifle made for him .22LR. Yeah – .22 Long Rifle! Talk about cool. To bad it was never built. Driven wabbits, anyone?

Take a closer look at these extraordinary 4 gauge stopping rifles…

March 11, 2016March 10, 2016 by Gregg

Here’s some more about the fabulous big-bore rifles coming up next week in James D. Julia’s Spring 2016 Firearms Auction. The info is a little off, but it’s amazing to see so many of these beasts together in one place.

INCREDIBLE FOUR BORE HOLLAND & HOLLAND HAMMER DOUBLE RIFLE MADE FOR THE NIZAM OF HYDERABAD WITH ORIGINAL CASE AND FULL COMPLEMENT OF ORIGINAL ACCESSORIES.

Incredible. And incredibly rare: MacNaughton .450 Skeleton-action double rifle…

March 10, 2016 by Gregg

EARLY AND RARE MACNAUGHTON “SKELETON” ROUND ACTION DOUBLE RIFLE

James D. Julia’s Spring, 2016, Firearms Auction kicks off next Monday, 3/14. As usual, there a bunch of impressive doubles in this sale.

Along with a pile of big-bore rifles made for Indian Royalty (check out this 4 bore) and this great looking 12 gauge Lefever Optimus made for President Benjamin Harrison, the sale also include this exceptionally rare MacNaughton .450 BPE hammerless double rifle.

James MacNaughton was a gunmaker in Edinburgh, Scotland, and he opened a shop in the city’s center in 1864. In 1879, he patented his ‘Edinburgh Patent Hammerless Ejector’ design, on which this double rifle is based.

With the lockwork mounted on the triggerplate and behind the standing breech, the actions on MacNaughton’s guns were very strong. Because of their strength, they could be adapted to the “Skeleton” design you see here and also used in double rifles, which generate far higher pressures and strain than shotguns.

MacNaughton’s hammerless design evolved over time, and I think this rifle is built on one of the earlier, or the earliest, variation. It uses the opening-motion of its extra long toplever to cock the locks. Later ones had regular sized toplevers and cocked on the drop of the barrels (here’s one in 12 gauge).

EARLY AND RARE MACNAUGHTON “SKELETON” ROUND ACTION DOUBLE RIFLE: SN 1156. (ca 1885 ?) Cal. .450 BPE. 28″ Dovetailed steel bbls are fitted with full length matted rib with one standing, one folding leaf rear sight. Leaves are unmarked and unnotched. Standing leaf has inset “certifiable antique ivory” sighting triangle. Central portion of rib is swamped and rises at muzzle to ramp holding steel bead.

Tops of bbls are engraved “James Mac Naughton” and “26 Hanover Street. Edinburgh.” Bbl flats are stamped with London black powder proofs, and bottoms of bbls with SNs. A sling eye is screwed into bottom rib. Bbls are fitted with early bail type extractor system, often used by Purdeys on early breech loaders. Round bodied, trigger plate action has wood which extends over bar in a style favored by MacNaughton, in which they referred to as their “Skeleton” action. This trigger plate action was the first (1879) of the famous “round” actions of Edinburgh. This basic design was used by John Dickson beginning in 1880 with resultant lawsuit over the concept. The action on this rifle is patent use no. “66”, and incorporates early long top lever which also cocks hammers. Central area is milled away to access action pin and view hammers through glass window as cocking indicators. Action also features MacNaughton’s toggling safety, pivoting third fastener, and dbl triggers. Large trigger plate has tail which extends to grip cap. Trigger guard is attached to trigger plate at front and back. Metal parts are engraved with near full coverage well cut scroll with Celtic knotwork borders. Top of action is engraved “MACNAUGHTON EDINBURGH”. Finely fiddle figured and lightly streaked, dense, European walnut horn capped pistol grip buttstock measures 14-1/2″ over checkered horn buttplate, and features slim shadow line right hand cheekpiece, and flat top point pattern checkering with mullered borders. A gold oval on toe line is engraved with wild boar in sling held by cleft in oak tree all over motto “Lock Sicker” (Keep Securely) This is the Douglas family crest – either Kinglassie or Sir Arthur Percy Baronet of Carr. This crest plate is behind sling eye engraved with star. Matching splinter forend has forward pivoting lever release. Drop at heel: approx 2-5/8″, drop at comb: approx 1-7/8″. Weight: 7 lbs. 14 oz. LOP: 14-1/2″.

PROVENANCE: Email stating that Dickson records indicate that a rifle with this SN was sold Aug 1895 to Sir A. M. MacKenzie (3rd Baronet), and “A relatively small amount of MacNaughton round actions were made about 400 in total. Of these, a mere handful were dbl rifles around 4 or 5.” (This rifle is most likely from an earlier period, and different SN series. Published records began with SN 110 in 1894. Info on Sir Arthur Percy Douglas and Banglapedia info on Sir Alexander MacKenzie (Not Alexander Muir MacKenzie).

EARLY AND RARE MACNAUGHTON “SKELETON” ROUND ACTION DOUBLE RIFLE

CONDITION: Excellent, original, as found. Bbls retain 80 – 90% orig blue thinning overall, silvering on sides of rear portion from normal hand wear, with some attendant minor scratches and marks. Action retains 70 – 80% orig light case hardening color. Top lever retain most of its orig fire blue, as does cocking window housing. Stocks retain nearly all of what appears to be their orig hand rubbed oil finish, with some fairly deep scratches on the right side of butt, and some minor marks and scratches scattered overall, checkering lightly worn. Bores are very fine, shiny with sharp rifling throughout. There is some pitting toward breech end of right bbl, and a few other scattered light pits. Action has a hint of looseness with forend removed, feels tight with forend installed. Bbls are slightly off face. A wonderful Scottish deer stalking rifle. Estimate: $20,000-$30,000

Bow down to this beast: 4 gauge SxS Holland & Holland elephant gun…

January 23, 2016September 23, 2018 by Gregg

HUMONGOUS HOLLAND & HOLLAND FOUR BORE DOUBLE ELEPHANT RIFLE, From James D. Julia Auctioneers

Like lightweight guns? Then you’ll hate this 4 gauge. At 21 lbs 4 oz., it weighs more than 3 Browning Superlights, and with its 4″, 4-bore chambers, it pushes out more lead, too.

Back in the 19th century, short barreled shotgun/rifles like this were used on the largest of large land mammals. They were essentially shotguns with rifled barrels. With it’s massive size, this one is more cannon than gun. It fires two shotgun-style shells, each stuffed with a single, ping-pong sized lead ball. That’s almost enough umph! to stop a train, and also why the thing is so heavy. Even at 20+lbs, I bet the recoil is more vicious than the animal you would be shooting at.

This particular one was made for an bigwig in India. Indian nobleman used to buy crates of shotguns and rifles from the major British makers. Who knows what this one saw or who hands touched it? We do know that James D. Julia Auctioneers sold it October, 2015, for $149,500. For a 130-year old gun, that’s a very princely sum.

BTW: If you have an old double barrel shotgun or rifle you would like to know more about (including its value), just drop me an email at gregg@dogsanddoubles.com

Here’s all the info on this double from the auctioneer:

HUMONGOUS HOLLAND & HOLLAND FOUR BORE DOUBLE ELEPHANT RIFLE. SN 8336.: Cal. 4 bore. (.955 Groove diameter, 11 groove Enfield type rifling) 4″ Chambers. 24″ Fine Damascus bbls, swamped at center with slight flare toward muzzles, are fitted with full length flat rib with dolls head extension. Rear portion behind single standing leaf express rear sight marked for 50 yards, is file cut. Central portion of rib is engraved “Presented to Mirza Toffal Ali Beg Khan Bahadur by Nawab Salar Jung Mukhtar-ul Mulk, Prime Minister of Hyderabad, Ootagamund, June 15, 1885”. Silver bead front sight is longitudinally dovetailed into rib. Top of right bbl is engraved with H&H New Bond street address. Top of left is engraved “Winners of All the “Field” Rifle Trials London 1883″. Breech ends are engraved with wide acanthus bands behind 2-3/8″ triangles of exceptionally well cut scrolling acanthus with floral centers. Matching bands are at muzzles. Gun is numbered “2” on top of dolls head extension, top tang, and on forend iron. Bbl flats are stamped with London black powder proofs for 6 bore. SNs are stamped on bottoms of bbls. A large sling eye is soldered to bottom rib. Massive case hardened Jones underlever round bar action (almost 3-1/2″ across breech face) has nicely filed fences, and is fitted with rebounding back action locks by Brazier sporting large, flat bodied, serpentine hammers with dolphin heads. Top tang extends over comb. Action and locks are engraved with 30% coverage well cut sprays of scroll, as background and accent to very well rendered scenes of big game animals, many for which this rifle would be suited. Right side of action depicts a rhinoceros with large deciduous and palm trees in background. Left side depicts an elephant strolling through open savannah with some trees and mountain in background. A bear in similar background is on left lockplate, and a well limned tiger burns bright from the right. A fine portrait of a lion is on top of action between hammers. SN and “2” are on trigger guard tang which extends to horn grip cap. Fiddle figured and lightly streaked dense European walnut capped pistol grip buttstock measures 14-3/8″ over Silver type pad, and features right hand shadow line cheekpiece, point pattern checkering with mullered borders at grip, and a sling eye, matching but smaller than that on bottom of bbl, on toe line. Central portion of cheekpiece has inset gold circle engraved with complex monogram including the large letters “S” and “J” intertwined with smaller letters “M” and “K” and “JUS”. (This rifle is almost identical, except for some nuances of engraving, with four bore rifle no. 8333, made for the Nizam of Hyderabad, and pictured and described on pages 67-69 in HOLLAND & HOLLAND THE ROYAL GUNMAKER by Donald Dallas. Factory records indicate that both rifles were ordered through Rogers, Rock & Co., H&H’s Indian agents. This rifle was undoubtedly part of a large shipment of big bore rifles for various Indian princes.) Matching broad splinter forend has pivoting lever release. Drop at heel: approx 3-5/16″, drop at comb: approx 2-1/4″. Weight: 21 lbs 4 oz. LOP: 14-3/8”.

PROVENANCE: Copy of factory ledger page, confirming specs and stating rifle was regulated with 14 drams of powder in a spherical ball.

CONDITION: Very fine. Bbls retain over 80% orig Damascus brown with some areas of further browning and discoloration with a number of light marks and dings. Action and locks retain 60 – 70% orig case hardening color with some brown staining and high edges silvered. Top of action colors are vivid, fading and turning brown along grip strap. Trigger guard is essentially all gray to brown patina with traces of dark color hardening under opening lever. Stocks retain most of an old oil refinish over numerous marks and dings, both heavy and light. Sharp edges are slightly rounded. Wood is somewhat below metal at top of grip, which shows a number of well done repairs. Checkering nicely re-cut. Forend wood is fine, checkering re-cut, with a small chip at right front of bbl channel. Pad is an old replacement, fitted to orig curve, and factory specs state rifle was originally made with a “recoil buttplate”. Bores are excellent, very shiny with sharp rifling throughout, with one or two minor imperfections, most likely small flaws in Damascus. Action is tight. Bbls are on face. Locks are crisp. An exceptionally cool big bore. Estimate: $60,000-$90,000.

Not doubles, but still cool: English target shooting …

December 28, 2015 by Gregg

Think you could hit a target at 1200 meters? Check out how these guys do it.

This video goes into the history of target shooting in England and the UK. It’s interesting, and very, very British.