Gun Auction Walk Around - Holts November 23

Published on November 13, 2023
Duration: 33:15

This video provides an in-depth walk-around of a diverse gun auction, highlighting numerous firearms from various eras and manufacturers. The presenter, an experienced firearms enthusiast, offers detailed commentary on specific models, their historical context, design features, and potential value. The review covers a wide range of shotguns, including over/unders and side-by-sides, as well as double rifles and pump-action models, with a focus on craftsmanship, aesthetics, and practical considerations for collectors and shooters.

Quick Summary

The Holts November 2023 auction features a record number of firearms, including a 'Dream Collection' with a significant influx of standard sporting guns. Highlights include a 28 gauge F.lli Piotti Excalibur, unique John Blanch sidelocks, a custom Browning B25 with engraved ribs, and a Lancaster double rifle converted to 22 Hornet.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Holts Auction
  2. 00:10Record Gun Quantity in Main Sale
  3. 00:27Over and Under Shotgun Influx
  4. 00:42Specific Shotgun Models Mentioned
  5. 00:50Edwinson Old English Over and Under
  6. 01:20Beretta S3 E Over and Under
  7. 02:0728 Gauge Excalibur by F.lli Piotti (FAS)
  8. 02:1228 Gauge Fanboy Commentary
  9. 02:23Excalibur Engraving and Features
  10. 03:07Detachable Triggers and Tangs
  11. 03:32Stock Length and Balance
  12. 04:19Pair of John Blanch Sidelock Side Levers
  13. 04:31John Blanch Back Action Design
  14. 05:03John Blanch Gun Condition and Features
  15. 05:11Blanch's Improved Snap Bolt Fore-end
  16. 05:19Appreciation for Side Levers
  17. 05:27History of Side Lever Guns
  18. 05:51John Blanch Sidelock Price Estimate
  19. 06:15John Blanch's Unique Appeal
  20. 06:36Subtle and Elegant Gun Design
  21. 06:54Scottish Influence in Gun Design
  22. 07:22John Blanch's Daring Design Path
  23. 07:52John Blanch's Financial Struggles
  24. 08:18End of John Blanch's Practice
  25. 08:55Brown Bess Reproduction Musket
  26. 09:0611mm Flintlock War of Independence Musket
  27. 09:45Custom Browning B25 Sporting Gun
  28. 10:03Custom B25 Sporting Gun Details
  29. 10:14Browning B25 Customization Trend
  30. 10:41Unique B25 Custom Features
  31. 11:31Engraved Top Rib on B25
  32. 12:01B25 Custom Value and Appeal
  33. 13:29Beretta 686 Collection 966
  34. 14:11Lancaster Double Rifle (1895)
  35. 14:26Parker Rifling and Tube Sleeving
  36. 15:1022 Hornet Caliber Conversion
  37. 15:331936 Patent Peep Sight
  38. 16:47Lancaster Double Rifle Specifications
  39. 17:06Marlin 1898 Pump Action Shotgun
  40. 17:33Nitro Proofing of Marlin 1898
  41. 18:05Marlin 1898 Slam Fire Feature
  42. 18:25Firearm Certificate Rating
  43. 18:37AA410 Shotguns
  44. 19:26Scottish Guns: John Dixon & Son
  45. 19:31John Dixon & Son 20 Gauge Side-by-Side
  46. 20:20Scrollback vs. Squareback Action
  47. 21:34John Dixon & Son Engraving
  48. 22:05Appreciation for Best Guns
  49. 22:33John Dixon & Son Overall Impression
  50. 23:21Beretta Stunning Guns
  51. 23:49Rolex Jackie Stewart Celebrity Challenge
  52. 24:26Beretta 686 Silver Sable 2 Double Rifle
  53. 25:02Watson Brothers Pigeon Gun
  54. 25:20High Pheasant Watson Gun
  55. 26:11AA Number One Model C Side-by-Side
  56. 26:29Deep Germanic Scroll Engraving
  57. 27:21AA Number One Model C Barrel Length Issue
  58. 28:41Hand Attachable Side Locks
  59. 29:37Alex Henry Boxlock Non-Ejector
  60. 30:16Heel and Toe Plates on Alex Henry
  61. 31:20Damascus Steel Barrels on Alex Henry
  62. 32:06Boxlock vs. Sidelock Preference
  63. 32:47Alex Henry Boxlock Quality
  64. 33:00Channel Support and Membership

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the John Blanch side-by-side shotguns unique?

John Blanch side-by-side shotguns are unique due to their distinctive back-action shape and a design philosophy that dared to be different from mainstream London gunmakers. They offer a subtle, graceful, and elegant aesthetic, appealing to collectors who appreciate artistry beyond ostentatious engraving.

What are the key features of the custom Browning B25 discussed?

The custom Browning B25 features a semi-pistol grip, a full-length trigger tang with a pistol grip cap, 30-inch barrels with fixed quarter chokes, and a fully engraved top rib in acanthus scroll. It was customized by ex-factory workers, offering unique aesthetic and functional enhancements.

Why is the Lancaster double rifle considered usable despite its age?

The 1895 Lancaster double rifle was professionally tube-sleeved by Parker Rifling to fire modern 22 Hornet cartridges. It also features 26-inch Nitro-proof barrels and a 1936 patent peep sight, making it a functional hunting rifle rather than just a historical artifact.

What is the significance of a 'scrollback' action on a shotgun?

A scrollback action, as seen on the John Dixon & Son shotgun, is considered a higher level of gunmaking art compared to a squareback action. It involves more complex machining and stocking to create flowing scrolls that integrate the wood and metal, enhancing the visual appeal and craftsmanship.

Why is the AA 'Number One Model C' priced lower despite its quality?

The AA 'Number One Model C' is priced between £1500-£2000 partly due to its 26-inch barrels, which are less popular in the current market. While the gun boasts exceptional engraving and quality, the shorter barrel length makes it a potential bargain for those willing to adapt.

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