Guns International #: 102776277
Seller's Inventory #: 62FNC2
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Guns International #: 102776277
Category - Browning Belgium Shotguns - O/U Superposed
- FN Shotguns
1962 Fabrique Nationale C2 Grade 'Game/Sporter' Superposed by Marie Magis
Description: Specifications: 12 Gauge Serial Number: 97945. Barrels: 28" vent rib w/ 'Field' forearm. Chokes: m/ic .020”/.014” Bores: Pristine. Dimensions: 1-3/8” x 2-1/4” x 14-3/8” to original butt plate. Metal Condition: ‘gray’ metal 95% - ‘blue’ metal 95% as re-‘bronzed’ in Europe – not ‘cold’ or ‘hot’ blue in America. Wood Condition: Original 92-95% condition with commiserate use-wear – well-maintained. Weight: 7 lbs – 11 oz Distinguishing factory features: Engraved by Marie Louise Magis - (signed on the left side of the receiver)
Foreword: If you don’t make it through this epistle-style presentation, you are not the type buyer I’m seeking. Otherwise, I hope a majority will feed off my passion for the artistic, aesthetic, and historical aspects of these European-styled ‘FN’ guns from an era, gone forever – ‘collecting’ in its truest sense. Provenance: From FN archives – (e-mail dated 29 Octobre, 2015) from the FN shipping journal - completed June 1962. This gun appeared as Lot 175 Bonham’s (Knightsbridge, London venue) on 1 May, 2014 purchased by Mr. Gabriel White, I purchased it 2 February, 2015 from ‘Gerry’ who operates his own shooting grounds ‘The Oaks’ near Pitsford, Northampton, UK. Import permit approved 5 February, 2015 - importer’s stamp applied 9 April, 2015. The art and craftsmanship speaks for itself. If you're collecting for the right reasons, then you shouldn't need documentation to confirm what a true connoisseur of the FN Superposed can clearly see. Owner’s Comments from extensive study of FN F.C.S. examples and history from fact-based research: The C2 grade was manufactured by Fabrique Nationale (FN) as part of their original 12-grade product line (under Browning patents) for exclusive distribution to their agents in European and World markets. The C2 was one of only three of those 12 Grades incorporating game scenes….the others being the B2, and the D4. The relatively few ‘Y-tang’ examples found in the U.S. were either purchased abroad and imported, or went through the export/import process after restrictions were implemented by the 1968 Firearms Act. Ned Schwing indicates that “the pre-war C2 was considered the FN-equivalent to a pre-war Browning Diana Grade.” The pre-war C2 and Diana Grades’ standard game scene subject matter was 'Boars and Stags', however in the early 50's Diana's were changed to 'Ducks and Pheasants' in deep-relief style, and the C2 was changed to 'Capercaille and Pheasants' remaining in light-relief style. All BrowninG receivers were 'flat-sided' however the C & D Grade FN receivers were 'sculptured' or ‘sculpted’ receivers giving them their distinctive European appearance and also placing them in ‘demi-deluxe’ and ‘grand deluxe’ model categories. Other dintinguishing features: Both C & D Grade FN’s have the distinctive ‘sculpted’ receiver profile which is formed by chased fillets, or cheeks (fr: jous), shells (fr: coquilles), or the double-tapered ‘acanthus leaf garland’ (photo 4) which forms the oval border surrounding the featured engraving theme, motif, degree of coverage, or game scene that distinguishes one sub-grade from another. The garland gives a more 3D view or rounded profile of the 'sculpted' frame than the squared Lightning style frames of the BrowninGs. The FN C Grades (C1, C2, & C3) were the only grades that incorporated the ‘Scalloped’ termination of the barrel fences and the standing breech at the rib crest (photo 3). FN D Grades had ‘2-tiered’ fences. The serial number on both C & D Grades appears on the trigger guard (photo 7), as well. This well-kept UK game gun has the unmistakeable character of the FN guns from the early periods - dark well-grained wood that compliments rather than overshadows the engraving - its aroma reminds me of an old gun shop (walnut, linseed oil, cleaning solutions, powder residue, and pipe tobacco) and is as much a part of its character as its visual appeal. A collection should reflect individualism – i.e., if the engraving, woodwork and craftsmanship does not reflect the owner’s passion for the art, aesthetics, function, and meticulous attention to detail, then gold initials seem pretentious and irrelevant. Each piece in a collection should make it difficult for the owner to pick which one he (or she) reaches for first, when the safe door opens. This is a ‘first row’ gun for me. Some of the guns I collect – I also shoot because I am basically a shooter who appreciates and derives much joy from the Superposed. The FN’s I’ve owned are fascinating due to their unique styling, handling, and the benefit that the FN offered a more specialized product line tailored to a variety of Tir/Chasse applications. This gun fits perfectly in the hands and just dares me to miss – a characteristic that I find more often with several FN’s I’ve owned over the years than an equal number of BrowninGs from various periods of production. The slightly larger grip of the 'Sporters' lends better gun control especially for shooters with big hands. I have only a ‘61 28” Vrancken Midas Lightning with special ordered std. weight 3" Magnum bbls (7lbs-12oz) that remotely approaches the balance and handling of this C2. The shooter who ordered that gun knew exactly what he wanted - smoother swing dynamics - a life member of the Peoria Trap and Skeet Club. Regarding Inquiries: As a collector & researcher (and shooter) of the Superposed, I understand the importance of verifying as many details as possible. I have attempted to represent my items accurately and price them fairly given my current knowledge of FN/BrowninG Superposed production history and details, with a keen recognition and appreciation for the ‘factory’ standards of quality in all aspects. Collectors know that the actual condition/details can only be confirmed, (and either agree or disagree with the sellers’ valuation), via personal inspection – so it is pointless to waste time (buyer’s and seller’s) making a counter-offer or an attempt to negotiate without benefit of in-person review. Simply put, under NO circumstances will I entertain lower offers. This piece is purposely-priced to sell, to a very limited market - those who actually know and appreciate what they're looking at. I don’t price items high so I can come-down to a comfort level (with price and/or unfamiliarity with what is being offered) of a buyer lacking knowledge and confidence at this stage in their collecting career, OR to make egotists feel 'good' about getting the better of someone else. Sorry, but I neither have time for indecision nor tolerance for 'gamesmanship'. I know what I'm offering and am confident in that knowledge and my valuation (i.e., artistic, aesthetic, and historical value). I'm not the least bit interested with what 'market' anyone else plays (or thinks they have figured-out) and therefore am not concerned with whatever monetary values or re-sale potential most buyers base their 'business plan' on. I've made buying quite simple - here's the most elegant FN C2 Sporter you'll likely run across (in the next few years) - if you want it - this is THE price - send me a check and FFL - Done deal - it's yours! No worries about what other buyers might offer because I don't accept lower offers. If you don't fall in love with this gun after you have it in your hands, just return it. I also reserve the right to refuse selling this gun to anyone I choose NOT to. It's not always about money. Those who are 'watching', I genuinely appreciate your interest although I'm not certain what folks are 'watching', (aside from hopes of a price reduction) other than this item’s eventual disappearance to another collector for the next 10-30 years. If this were an auktion, you would have to compete for it with no in-person inspection (unless you are in attendance), and more importantly, if buying remotely, there would be no returns. So, you have advantage of knowing the price required to be successful, plus you're basically securing inspection and return privileges for the listed price. Price reflects purchase, export/import (which is almost cost-prohibitive now), the artistry of the only female FN Master of the 6 FN Masters awarded that dinstinction from 1959 thru 1992 (Funken being #7), the relative scarcity of examples like this in the US, and the fact that this is from the best period in Superposed production - everything past 1965 was the product of cost-cutting measures to remain competitive, including engraving time/labor. The later versions are incomparable to the late 50's and early 60's engraving and attention to detail in these guns. - an era, gone forever. Note: the post-1966 C2 receivers that are 'flat-sided' with no cheeks and 2-tiered fences are of the 'Lightweight' frame variety known as 'Speciale Chasse' #13 (Special Hunting) or 'Speciale Skeet' #105. The otherwise traditional game scenes were elongated to fit this new 'canvas' or layout. Transaction Details: Once a buyer notifies me and commits to pursue purchase, I will provide an address for mailing of funds and a current copy of the receiving FFL. FFL copy may also be electronically transmitted to my (or my FFL’s) e-mail address (provided upon request). FFL-to-FFL shipments only. Buyer pays $80 UPS Ground shipping costs and insurance costs to lower 48. International shipments considered. Payment by Personal Check, Certified Check, or Money Order. Applicable waiting/clearance periods applies to all. Electronic payments considered for convenience and to expedite the process. The receiver of the shipment shall be responsible for inspecting the package for any signs of impact or damage and notifying the carrier before opening and before the carrier leaves FFL's premises. The listed price basically secures a 3-Day non-shooting, non-disassembly inspection, and return privileges. Item does not leave the receiving FFL’s premises until either transferred to the new owner or returned via that FFL. 3 Day = Day 1 is when UPS delivers the package to your FFL. Day 1 or 2, review the item and make a decision. If you really know what your looking at, it should only take 10 minutes. Day 2 or 3, notify me of your intent to keep or return the item. Day 3 (if returning the item), provide a tracking number and confirmation of insurance for the declared value (listed price) and have your FFL get it on UPS ‘pick-up’ before the end of business hours. If you are not satisfied with the item as priced, just notify me and I will provide a return FFL address. Return item in the same condition and as packaged and insured for purchase amount to my FFL holder. I will re-inspect the item and refund the sale price less my FFL’s re-transfer fees ($35) if the item's condition is verified 'as-sent'. For serious collectors, feel free to ask questions and request photos of specific views via e-mail feature below. Otherwise, please be respectful of my time. I've willingly shared fact-based research and knowledge about this gun, to the best of my ability and experience. I can't imagine any part of this presentation that requires clarification. Thank you for your interest, tolerance, and serious consideration. Please view my other Superposed and accessories listings. Curio/Relic: Yes Price: $11,000.00 Contact Seller |
Guns International #: 102776277
Seller's Inventory #: 62FNC2
Guns International #: 102776277
Seller's Inventory #: 62FNC2