New Shotgun

[BigHink66]

Does anyone produce double barrel kits other than Pedersoli?

Any American gunsmiths who could or do build an in the white or kit double barrel? Like a reproduction of an earlier gun.

Also, when buying an original sxs to use for hunting.... What should you look for to determine that its a shooter and not a wallhanger?

How cheaply could one pick up a sxs in good working condition?

Where would you send one for a repair?

What signs would tell you a damascus barrel was unsafe?

I know that this is alot of questions, but I am new to this and want a side by side to hunt with. I almost bought a pedersoli kit, but would rather have something made in america and wanted to explore my options. I don't want to spend alot, but realize that I will have to spend the cash to get what I want. I would rather be satisfied with my purchase and get what I want than save a couple of bucks.

 

[flintlockmdj]

Welcome to the forum, I'm sorry that I can't answer your questions but you have your head streight on your shoulders with the questions that you asked. You have come to the correct place to ask this question as there is many on this forum that are quite knowledgeble about this. :bow:

 

[Flintlock58]

It is pretty hard to beat Pedersoli for SxS. I really like mine. I have had a 12 ga percussion for about 15 years. I do not know of any other American builders of doubles. I have one custom flint fowler and a White inline 12 (oops) that are American made

 

[BigHink66]

Yeah, through the research that I have been doing it is pretty clear that if I want a new gun it will be a pedersoli. They are the only show in town. I am not knocking their quality, I just wanted something different.

Basically I need to know now how much I should expect to spend on a plain but SAFE and working antique side by side. Can I get one for under $300? I have been looking on the gun auctions, but I really don't know what to look for. Not being able to physically handle the gun is a problem also. I may hang what I buy on the mantle, but it needs to be serviceable.

I have currently recieved an offer on a nice 10 gauge for $550, but I am uncertain what I want to do.

Can the antiques withstand a max load that a NEW pedersoli could?

Are all antiques damascus twist?

Any guidance would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

 

[Flintlock58]

I think the Pedersolis have choromed barrels to handle hard shot. I got mine from cabelas and their gun section answered all my questions about the gun at that time. Older percussion guns I think would have damascus barrels. I wouldnt want to shoot damascus barrels, especially if you want to hunt waterfowl. A new Ped will cost around $600 ready to fire. They had a 10 guage ped in the white a week ago on one of the online gun auctions. The bids at the time were around $400. Dont know what it sold for. Keep looking if you have time.

 

[BigHink66]

I was at cabela's today and got to handle the pedersoli 10 gauge.

It was in the Bargain Basement and marked down to $560 from $800 +. I really felt that even for $560 the fit and finish should have been alot better. All of the mortises for the furniture had all kinds of gaps and even around the locks. Just felt for the money they should have been fitted alot better.

I definately am not buying a pedersoli.

I know there are guys that like them, but I refuse to plop my hard to come by cash on something that looked so sloppy. In my opinion they should sell for $300.

They did have a 20 gauge that looked better. If I buy one it will be hand picked for the price they are asking.

 

[Todd Rickard]

That is one of the reasons I've decided to shoot an original shotgun. The quality is better and I get a lot of pleasure from shooting the oldies. I like the worn finish and the stories it tells. I had a Navy arms double 12ga, but I sold it without even breaking it in. Kicked like a mule too- due to the ill fitting stock. Most originals have cast-off built in to the stock, and point like your finger (if you are right handed).

 

[ssettle]

BigHink66, Your right the Pedersoli double is too pricy for what you get. I got mine in kit form several years ago for something like 375 dollars. I'm always tinkering with the locks. They don't come with a fly in the tumbler. And if you ever have to replace one you'll have to fork out a 100 bucks. If you do decide to buy one get it with screw in chokes. Ssettle

 

[Christiaan]

I can tell you there will be an Affordable Double barrel Percussion 12Ga on the Market. I'll keep you up to date.

 

[BillinOregon]

Big HinK: I have had all three gauges in the Pedersoli doubles, and only the 20 was a pleasure to shoot. I am always tempted by the Damascus doubles, but having done some consulting for a historical society and handling two such guns in their collection that blew in the first six inches, I would want it thoroughly examined by an expert. Damascus barrels can be safe; you just have to have the right gun. That said, you might keep an eye out for a William Moore in good shape. These were widely used and sold and had a reputation as workhorses. I believe the late V.M. Starr, the guru of ML shotguns, used a Moore.

 

[54mountain]

I just picked up a good original Belgium made 14ga for $210 after the guy beat me with it at our spring shoot. :grin: So there are some originals out there for a good price. I suggest going to some shoots and gun shows and asking around. I've been looking for a good $200 sxs for several years now and finally one dropped into my lap (when I actually had the cash on me), Just be patient and look around they are out there!!

 

[Christiaan]

How cheaply could one pick up a sxs in good working condition?
I want than save a couple of bucks.

Keep a lookout for an affordable Double barrel shotgun that will be on the market within a few months. The first sample are being prepared and send to me for testing and evaluation.

I do agree that Pedersoli is the best quality on the market. I owe a 10ga and is very satisfied with it. But like to get a more affordable one for my 12 year old son. Just can't spend that kind of money on the young 'un.

 

[BigHink66]

Do you have inside information on an affordable double?