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LOT 563
Factory Engraved Beretta Model SO5 Sporting Sidelock Over/ Under Shotgun - Serial no. C15007B, 12 gauge, 28 inch vent rib bbl., blue/coin finish, walnut stock. Blued Bohler Antinit steel barrels with single orange fiber optic bead sight on the matted vent rib, Beretta factory markings, 2001 dated Italian proofs, 2 3/4 inch chambers with automatic ejectors, muzzles threaded for Mobil Choke tubes (improved cylinder/improved cylinder installed), and light engraving surrounding the upper breech and chamber. The bright coin finished bolstered sidelock action displays highly attractive light scroll engraving tastefully dispersed around the receiver, lockplates, tangs, trigger guard, and toplever. The markings on the action are beautifully hand cut, reading “P. Beretta” on either lockplate, “SPORTING” on the trigger guard, “SO5” on the lower tang, and another “P. Beretta” on the underside of the action which has been filled by fine gold inlay. The gun features a single trigger and a tang mount manual safety/ selector switch. Highly figured, exhibition quality Schnabel tip forend with coin finished engraved fittings, including the Deeley style release latch. The pistol grip stock is of equally exceptional quality and features a red rubber recoil pad with black spacer. Barrel and stock measurements (U/O): bore diameter nine inches from the breech both proved at 18.4 mm (.724 inches) and measured .725/.725 inches; minimum wall thickness .034/.033 inches; 1 1/2 inch drop at comb; 2 3/8 inch drop at heel; 14 5/8 inch length of pull; cast-off; weight 8 lbs. 1 oz. CONDITION: Excellent overall, retaining 99% original blue and coin finishes with minimal minor handling evidence, some areas of light discoloration in the coin finish mostly on the underside of the action, and sharp checkering on the stock and forend. Mechanically excellent. Provenance: The Joe Marlin Hilliard Collection.
Estimate: 16,000 - 25,000 421