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The included factory letter lists the gun as a 12 gauge Single Barrel Trap
gun with 32 inch barrels, 2 3/4 inch chambers, an ejector, a full choke, scroll
engraving, pistol grip stock with metal cap, and Silver’s recoil pad when the
gun was completed in June, 1970. The letter further states that the gun was
restocked on two occasions, hence the included second stock. Finally the
letter lists the gentlemen who completed the work on this gun including the
engraver Casbard and actioner P. Nelson, the latter of which went on to form
his own firm, the highly regarded P. V. Nelson. Also included is gold medal
certificate from Concours d’Elegance of Fine Arms which states that this is one
of just 59 Single Barrel Trap Guns built, of which just two were completed with
the large scroll engraving. And finally, included is a fine lightweight leather
takedown case marked with the Purdey trade label for this gun and an outer
canvas cover marked “HENRY CHAPMAN” containing the aforementioned
second stock, two leather covered recoil pads, a nickel oiler, two turnscrews, a
snap cap, and cleaning tools.
Barrel and stock measurements: bore diameter nine inches from the breech
proofed at .729 inches and measured .731 inches; choke constriction .035
inches; minimum wall thickness .050 inches; 1 5/16 inch drop at comb; 1 3/8
inch drop at heel; 14 7/16 inch length of pull; weight 7 lbs. 12 oz.
CONDITION: Excellent, retaining 99% original blue and brushed bright finishes
with minor handling evidence and a few small scratches under the forend. The
replacement wood is very fine with a few tiny marks and sharp checkering.
The ejector appears to be disabled; otherwise, mechanically excellent. The
case is very fine as are the extra stock and accessories. A great chance to own a
scarcely encountered fine British single barrel trap gun!
Provenance: The Robert M. Lee Collection.
Estimate: 30,000 - 45,000