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LOT 454
Factory Engraved Boss & Co. Assisted-Opening Sidelock Double Barrel Shotgun with Case - Serial no. 6505, 12 gauge,
29 inch solid rib bbl., blue/casehardened finish, walnut stock. This beautiful gun was built by Boss & Co., one of the finest makers of fine
arms in the world, between 1916 and 1920 according to information given on page 238 of Donald Dallas’“Boss & Co.: Builders of Best Guns Only”. The gun has blued steel chopperlump barrels which have been
shortened featuring a single bead sight on the smooth concave solid rib which is signed “BOSS & Co. 13. DOVER STREET, PICCADILLY, LONDON, W.” along with a gold “1” at the base, engraving at the breech, original
and later London reproof marks, and 2 1/2 inch chambers with automatic ejectors. The barrels are mated to a casehardened assisted-opening sidelock action which displays extensive classic bouquet and scroll engraving surrounding “BOSS & Co.” signature banners on either lockplate and “BOSS & Co./PATENT” on the underside before extending to the triggerguard, both tangs, and toplever which shows a second gold “1”. The gun features double triggers, gold centerline cocking indicators on either lockplate, a
right hand rolled triggerguard, and a tang mounted automatic safety with gold inlaid “SAFE” indicator. The gun is fitted with a nicely figured and multi-point checkered splinter forend with engraved fittings and a third gold “1” and a straight grip stock with teardrop carved drop points, a blank gold inscription oval, and a checkered bare butt.
Included with the gun is an oak and leather double gun takedown case with a Boss trade label, nickel snap caps, nickel oiler, and cleaning tools. Barrel and stock measurements (R/L): bore diameter nine inches from the breech both
proofed at .729 inches and measured .735/.736 inches; choke constriction .011/.012 inches; minimum wall thickness .018/.020 inches; 1 3/8 inch drop at comb; 2 inch drop at heel; 14 3/4 inch length of pull; cast-off; weight 6 lbs. 6 oz.
CONDITION: Very fine as professionally refurbished, retaining 98% blue finish with some rubbing beneath the forend, 40% of the muted original case coloring, a coat of varnish over the blue finish aside from the barrels, and light handling evidence.
The wood is also very fine with a few light handling marks and crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent. The case is very good with some storage/transit wear. A great chance to get your hands on a beautiful piece from one of Britain’s finest makers!
Estimate: 14,000 - 22,500