4000 Bargains: The UK’s BIGGEST gun auction (July 2023)

Published on July 16, 2023
Duration: 42:30

This video provides an in-depth review of numerous firearms available at the Halt sealed bid auction in July 2023. The presenter, an experienced firearms enthusiast, examines a wide range of shotguns, including antique hammer guns, modern over-and-unders, and various gauge firearms. He discusses their condition, historical significance, potential value, and suitability for different shooting applications, offering insights into the nuances of the firearms market and the appeal of collecting and restoring firearms.

Quick Summary

The Halt UK gun auction features a diverse array of firearms, from antique Purdy hammer guns with desirable features but significant condition issues, to versatile Valmet 412s and rare 36-inch barrels. Notable items include a masterfully crafted 1885 crossover hammer gun and a 20-gauge Beretta 687 EELL Pigeon, marred by poor checkering, alongside a bargain William Rochester Pape boxlock.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Halt Auction
  2. 00:25Searching the Catalog
  3. 00:431874 Purdy Hammer Gun
  4. 01:52Damascus Barrels Condition
  5. 02:04Black Powder Proof
  6. 03:23Valmet 412 with Multiple Barrels
  7. 04:43FEG of Budapest Review
  8. 05:31Crossover Stock Explained
  9. 06:351885 Crossover Hammer Gun Condition
  10. 07:35Sealed Bid vs. Main Sale
  11. 08:41Beretta 390 Silver Mallard
  12. 09:32Ithaca Model 37 (16 Gauge)
  13. 11:00Matched Pair Over/Unders (20 & 28 Gauge)
  14. 14:05SW Silver & Co Hammer Gun
  15. 15:23GECARDO Over/Under (1920)
  16. 18:00Custom Camouflage M1622 Copy
  17. 19:25Winchester 8500 Trap Gun
  18. 22:19Winchester 8500 Loose Action
  19. 23:05Beretta Vega Lusso (Breda)
  20. 24:17English Over/Under (Belgian/French)
  21. 25:20DArm Spanish Over/Under
  22. 26:47Rifles and Air Rifles at Halt
  23. 27:03Enfield .303 Artillery Carbine
  24. 27:54Mannlicher-Carcano SMLE Mk III
  25. 29:1024 Gauge Mannlicher-Carcano
  26. 31:12Renato Gamba Oxford 90 (20 Gauge)
  27. 33:34Gamba Gold SP
  28. 34:44Beretta 687 EELL Pigeon (20 Gauge)
  29. 38:18William Rochester Pape Boxlock
  30. 40:32Purdey Sporter 20 Gauge Preview

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the 1874 Purdy hammer gun notable despite its condition issues?

The 1874 Purdy hammer gun is notable for its historical significance, featuring a Sankey rib, rebounding hammers, and back-action island locks, which are highly desirable. However, its value is significantly reduced by pitting and thin, dented Damascus barrels that are only black powder proofed.

What are the key features of the Valmet 412 discussed in the auction review?

The Valmet 412 highlighted comes with three barrel sets, including a rare 36-inch set, a 26-inch skeet set, and a 30-inch ejector sporter set. It also features a Monte Carlo stock and a plain action, offering significant versatility.

Why is the 1885 crossover hammer gun considered a remarkable piece of craftsmanship?

The 1885 crossover hammer gun is remarkable due to its highly specialized design for a right-handed shooter who lost their right eye. The stock, locks, hammers, and other components are intricately bent and folded to align perfectly for left-eye shooting, a testament to exceptional gunsmithing skill.

What is the main drawback of the Beretta 687 EELL Pigeon discussed?

The Beretta 687 EELL Pigeon, despite being a successful 20-gauge shotgun with excellent wood and engraving, suffers from extremely poor quality stock checkering. This flaw significantly detracts from its overall appeal and value.

What makes the William Rochester Pape boxlock shotgun a good bargain?

The William Rochester Pape boxlock shotgun from 1904 is considered a bargain at £300 due to its usability and style. It features a nice pistol grip, three-inch chambers, side clips, and is suitable for clay shooting, offering significant value for its price.

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