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Rare Hopkins & Allen 20-Gauge Hammerless Side-Plated Boxlock, SN 1281, Mfg. Norwich, CT circa 1909
Guns International #: 103281900 Seller's Inventory #:
Category: Shotguns - American Double - Shotguns - Womens
Seller's Information
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Seller: DOUBLEGUN PRESERVATION
Member Since: 3/7/12
State: Virginia
Zip: 22207
Country: United States
Phone: (703) 625-4830
Premium Seller
Number of Active Listings: 2
Seller: Private Seller
Return Policy: 3 day inspection and return policy on used guns.
Payment Types Accepted: Certified Check, Postal Money Order, Personal Check
Description:
In 1908 the Norwich, Connecticut arms manufacture Hopkins & Allen introduced a new line of “high-grade popularly priced” double barrel shotguns. These New Model doubles competed very successfully against the lower grade models of the premier brands until production ended at the start of World War I. H&A achieved a similar quality at a lower price-point by incorporating new technologies and innovative manufacturing methods. Among the most significant were monobloc construction of its barrels and use of coil springs to power both hammer and hammerless guns. The New Model hammerless side-plated boxlocks (HLsplBL), such as this 20-gauge, had the look and feel of the premier American sidelocks. But boxlocks required less labor than sidelocks to produce, and H&A was able to achieved its price advantage without reducing the quality of the components. H&A receivers were hammer-forged and case-hardened; the mechanical parts of the locks were made of nicely milled tool-steel. H&A 20-gauge doubles of all types are scarce. Only 5% of the company’s total double barrel production was in 20-gauge, and the majority of these were hammer guns. Hammerless 20-gauge guns with steel barrels that have survived for over a century are rare.
This gun, s/n 1281, is a light weight (6 pounds 2 ounces) game gun that shoulders and handles well. The stock and forend wood are made of nicely grained walnut and have18 point checkering. The drop-at-the-comb is 1-1/2” and the drop-at-the-heel is 2-3/4”. The length-of-pull to the end of the original buttplate is 13-1/2”.
The Hopkins & Allen Arms Company lettering on the left side of the receiver is crisp. The receiver and bottom metal are re-color-case hardened by Turnbull. The 26” decarbonized steel barrels have no pitting, dents, or other flaws, as reconditioned. The chambers are 2-5/8”; both barrels are choked cylinder. The bore diameters measured at 9” from the breech, are both .615”. The wall thicknesses of the right barrel measured at 9” from the muzzle are (top/side/bottom) .045/.044/.046” and at the middle of the barrel are .042/.045/.045”. The wall thicknesses of the left barrel are .039/.035/.045” and .037/.035/.045, respectively. The right trigger pulls at 2-1/2 pounds and the left at 1-1/2 pounds. All serial numbers match. The gun locks up tight, and the top bolt provides an extra level of security.
The price does not include shipping costs paid by buyer. The inspection period is 7 days from receipt. This shotgun has been fired using standard 2-3/4" Remington shells and 2-1/2” low pressure RST shells. However, as for any antique or vintage shotguns, it is recommended that the new owner have it inspected by his or her gunsmith before firing.
Price: $1,900.00
Curio/Relic: Yes