Guns International #: 102781101
Seller's Inventory #: Goertz32

Category - Gun Cases - Browning - Gun Cases - American

Category
Gun Cases - Browning
Gun Cases - American

Pre-war 'black' case for Superposed w/ up to 32" bbls

Description:
Exterior dimensions: 34-1/2" x 8" x 4" Interior dimensions: 32-1/4" x 6-3/4" - Weight: 9lbs 10oz

The exterior of this case is styled almost identical to a pre-war BrowninG 'black' cowhide case. Dimensions are very close, as well, but this is not a BrowninG-marketed case.

I bought this case from a vendor who attended the 2016 Northeast SxS Classic in Friendsville, PA. The interior was blocked (at that time) for a SxS but was in VERY rough shape - it was a perfect candidate for re-blocking and re-lining in Superposed configuration for 32" barreled gun.

The exterior was reconditioned by Cade Gile of Huey Gun Cases in 2017. I re-blocked and re-lined the interior, replicating the interior layout and details as close as possible to original 1935 Model 'S' #7, #8, and #9 cases I used as a 'standard'. Stitching on the lid-stop straps and edges of the interior fabric were accomplished using a 4-string serger machine purchased solely for this purpose. The interior fabric is a micro-fiber in light gray - the closest color I could find at the time. I had the patch custom-embroidered from the 'felt and vinyl-style' FN/Legia patches, to add a bit of FN/BrowninG nostalgia to the case. It is currently not attached so the new owner can install it in another location - it has an iron-on backing which allows easy installation in the lid.

During my research of U.S. patents, I discovered the April 22, 1924 patent drawings for the lock by Augustus Goertz & Co., Newark, NJ.

The shell was solid and needed NO attention. No broken glue joints, No de-laminations. Everything functions properly. The exterior appears to be either buffalo hide or a heavy cowhide embossed in a buffalo or 'elephant' pattern (as these cases were sometimes referred). It is quite distinguishable - and unique. The leather 'flap-type' hinge is completely sound - no rips - no tears - no broken stitches - and minimal evidence of fatique for 95+ years. Photos furnished upon request.

While this case is not 'all-original' (in a purist's collecting sense), I hope you'll agree it would be a worthy compliment to any pre-war FN or Browning Superposed until you either find an original pre-war Model 'ST' case in excellent original condition, have one sensitively restored (in the truest sense of that term), or find a worn but still-functional example at a reasonable valution. Good luck with all of the above. I got tired of 'waiting' and pursued re-lining as an alternative - as result I build my own replica pre-war cases from scratch, now. My pre-war 'Model ST' #9 replica case for 32" Superposed will run $2,000.00 - $2,250.00 depending on availability of the correct locks and/or any re-bronze plating requirements. If you have a beat-up 'donor' case and I don't have to re-plate the existing hardware, that will reduce the price for a new case. I only planned to build 1 or 2 cases (of any configuration) per year......and I'm 70, but I already have 4 'projects' on the bench for this Spring/Summer.

Why did I get into building replica pre-war cases? I got tired of irrational fantasy prices for non-functional junk and decided I'd try to build my own. I remember an ad for an absolutely beat-to-hell pre-war case advertised with the opening statement, "Add value to your investment." Well, the only logical way that could be possible is if someone had a  gun that was in more dreadful condition than the case which featured a completely ripped flap hinge, one broken flipper spring, missing blocking, broken grip AND barrel straps, a de-laminating wooden box as evident through the holes in the exterior skin and  badly torn/worn (and soiled) interior lining. Price: $1000. Astonishingly BRILLIANT marketing strategy, eh? So, Thank You! - That became the inspiration for building my own. 

Unfortunately, I don't have a 32" pre-war gun for this case, so I'm attempting to downsize a bit and am letting this piece 'go' to other dedicated Superposed afficianados who might like a nice case to compliment a prized possession.

For those who are 'watching' this listing - there are now 2 of you. Thank You! I genuinely appreciated your interest. I'm not likely to reduce the price. I have other plans for this case if I don't get what I'm asking when I take a notion to 'de-list' it. If you need a 32" 'period' case - here it is - 'better snap it up. Happy Hunting!

Transaction Details:
I will provide a mailing address for funds once a buyer notifies me and commits to purchase. Buyer pays actual shipping and insurance costs (UPS Ground) to lower 48. International shipments considered. Payment by electronic transfer, Personal Check, Certified Check, or Money Order. 7-day waiting/clearance period applies to all except e-transfer and Postal Money Orders. Personal check is scanned and electronically deposited the day of receipt - it usually takes 1 day to get a clearence confirmation. So, the case can be shipped within 3 days of receipt of funds (including clearence confirmation).

You are basically paying for inspection and return privileges. 3 days = Day 1 is the day UPS confirms delivery. Day 2 you review and think about it. Day 2 or 3 notify me of your intent to keep or return and Day 3 (if returning the item) provide a tracking # and get it to UPS before the end of business hours on the third day.

There is little point in wasting time (yours and mine) making a counter offer. You really won't know what you're looking at until you see an item in person to see the quality and either agree with my valuation, or establish your own. Simply put, I won't entertain lower offers. I don't price items high so I can come-down to a buyer's comfort level (price or familiarity with what's being offered) that a buyer cannot confidenetly justify at this stage in their collecting career, or to make egotists feel 'good' about getting the better of someone else. I neither have time for indecision nor tolerance for 'gamesmanship'. It's real easy - If you don't agree or are not satisfied with the item as priced, then simply notify me and provide a tracking number for return. Return item in the same condition and as packaged and insured for purchase amount. I will re-inspect the item and refund the sale price if the item is packaged and received in the same condition as originally sent. Feel free to ask questions (other than, "how much would you take for it?") and/or request photos of specific views via e-mail feature below. I'll try to provide what you need (within reason), to make an informed assessment and decision. Thank You for your interest and Please check my collection of 'Y'-tang Superposed listings. 'Happy Hunting'!

For those who have sent messages complimenting my work - Thank You - very much appreaicted! - it's a labor of love. A passtime - not a business.




 

Price: $1,450.00