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410
LOT 495
Fantastic Factory Rodolfo Balneari Signed and
Engraved Piotti 28 Gauge King EELL Sidelock Double
Barrel Shotgun Two Barrel Set with Case - Serial no.
7888, 28 gauge, 26 inch solid rib bbl., blue/coin finish,
walnut stock. Piotti is among the best gunmaking firms in Italy and produces exceptionally high quality
pieces that would be at home in the finest sporting arms collections in the world. This gun is built with blued steel chopperlump barrels featuring a
dual bead sights on the matted solid rib which has a gold “1” at the base, “ACCIAIO SIAU UM6” and “FLLI PIOTTI-ITALY” marked on the right and left
tubes respectively, single band of engraving at the breech, 1983 dated Italian proofs on the flats, import mark under forend, and 2 3/4 inch chambers
with automatic ejectors. The barrels are fitted to a coin finished sidelock action which displays attractive scroll engraving surrounding a trio of game
scenes depicting a pheasant in a standoff with a weasel on the left, two pointers flushing a pair of red legged partridge (chukar) on the right, and
a woodcock in a wooded scene on the underside. All three game scenes are signed “BALNEARI” for Italian Master Engraver Rudolfo Balneari. The gun
features bushed firing pins, a single non-selective trigger, and manual tang mounted safety. The gun is fitted with a beautifully figured and multi-point
checkered semi-beavertail forend with engraved fittings, gold Piotti logo, and an Anson button release as well as a straight grip stock with gold inscription oval
engraved “KTK” and a rubber recoil pad. Includes a second matching numbered 27 inch 28 gauge barrel set as well as a wood and leather takedown case which houses the action and one
barrel set. Barrel measurements for the extra set (R/L): bore diameter nine inches from the breech proofed at 13.9mm (.547 inches) and measured .549 inches; choke constriction .020/.026
inches. Barrel and stock measurements (R/L): bore diameter nine inches from the breech proofed at 13.9mm (.547 inches) and measured .549 inches; choke constriction .009/.021 inches; 1
1/2 inch drop at comb; 1 15/16 inch drop at heel; 14 1/2 inch length of pull; weight 5 lbs. 10 oz.
CONDITION: Excellent, retaining 99% original blue and coin finishes with minor handling evidence. The wood is very fine with a few tiny cracks at the rear of the lockplates, a few minor
scratches, and sharp checkering. Mechanically excellent. Case is very good. Extra barrel set is excellent. A great chance to own an fantastic Italian small bore sidelock!
Estimate: 15,000 - 25,000