Page 286 - 88-BOOK3

LOT 3497
Outstanding Masterfully Factory Engraved Boss & Co. 20 Gauge Best Quality Assisted Opening Sidelock Over/
Under Shotgun Two Barrel Set with Case - Serial no. 6205, 20 gauge, 28 inch round bbl., blue/casehardened finish, walnut
stock. The Boss & Co. name is synonymous with quality, as such they are one of the most highly regarded names in the
English arms trade. They truly live up to the words so wisely put to paper by renowned author Donald Dallas in his book
“Boss & Co.: Builders of Best Guns Only”. Blued steel barrels with a ramp front sought, a small sighting flat at the breech,
“BOSS & Co., 13, DOVER STREET, PICCADILLY, LONDON, W.I.” marked on the upper barrel, London nitro proofs, scroll engraving
at either side of the breech, and chambers proved at “7/8” oz. with selective ejectors. The casehardened Boss patent sidelock
action displays masterfully executed Purdey style bouquet & scroll engraving which surrounds the Boss patent numbers on the
triggerplate and both sides of the action as well as “BOSS & Co.” banners on either lockplate. The exceptionally fine engraving extends to the toplever, triggerguard, and the tangs, both
of which show engraved screw heads. The gun features a single non-selective trigger, gold inlaid cocking indicator, a right hand rolled triggerguard, and a tang mounted automatic
safety switch with gold inlaid “SAFE”. Beautiful, highly figured, multi-point checkered forend with engraved fittings, including the Anson button release and Boss patent shoe, and straight grip stock with carved teardrop flats, blank inscription oval, and a checkered bare butt. Included is a second set of later 28 inch barrels marked “NEW BARRELS BY I.M. CRUDINGTON
LTD.37 BROAD ST, BATH, ENGLAND. A.D. 2000” with 2 3/4 inch chambers and interchangeable Teague chokes (full/improved modified installed). Also included is a leather mutton leg takedown case. Barrel measurements for extra set (U/O): bore diameter nine inches from the breech both proved and measured at 15.6mm (.614 inches) inches; minimum wall thickness .027/.028 inches. Barrel and stock measurements for original set (U/O): bore diameter nine inches from the breech both proved at “20” (.615 inches) and measured .623/.624 inches; choke constriction .000/.000 inches; minimum wall thickness .021/.019 inches; 1 1/2 inch drop at comb; 2 1/8 inch drop at heel; 14 inch length of pull; weight 5 lbs. 2 oz.
CONDITION: Very fine overall, retaining 90% plus factory refurbished quality blue finish, strong traces of original case colors in the protected areas, light handling evidence, and mostly sharp checkering on the stock and forend. A professionally done repair has been made to the inside of the forend to reinforce a slight crack. Mechanically excellent. Don’t miss this chance to own this fantastic piece from on of London’s premier gunmakers!
284 Estimate: 30,000 - 50,000