1956 Browning Superposed Grade III 'Fighting Cocks' 12ga
Description:
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SOLD!!! on 8/28/24. Thank You!, Steve.
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Superposed Model: 1956 Grade III ('Fighting Cocks' Grade) Standard weight Trap model Superposed 12 Gauge
Serial Number: 45381 Signed: (both sides) 'Felix Funken' Barrels: 30" ventilated rib w/ 'Trap' (semi-beavertail) forearm Chokes: Full/Modified (.032”/.020”) Dimensions: 1-7/16” x 1-11/16” x 14-3/8” to Horn butt plate Wood Condition: 98%. Checkering Condition: 98%. Metal Condition: Bluing is 98%. Gray Receiver is 98%. Weight: 8lbs-3oz
Provenance: BrowninG letter dated 1/16/17. Invoiced May 25, 1956 to Gateway Sporting Goods, Kansas City, MO. Previous (original) owner and his son are from the Kansas City area.
#45381 was represented to me as an all-original, one-owner gun. Based on my current understanding and recognition of ‘factory’ quality standards (and all the ‘re-do’s that fail to approach those standards), I cannot dispute that claim. The fact that this gun was originally fitted with a butt plate and remains the standard 14-3/8” L.O.P. further confirms that aspect of originality and makes an original trap model with a butt plate relatively scarce. ["Trap models built between 1952-1959 were sold without a factory recoil pad as standard but could be fitted with a recoil pad as a factory option."]*Ned Schwing.
Also included in the price of this gun is a mint condition Browning Tolex 32” (overall outside length) case which was made FOR BrowninG and offered through BrowninG dealers from 1956-60. I won’t tell you this case is original to the gun because I bought this period-correct case separately to compliment this exceptional Gr III example. BTW - how would one confirm the case was original to the gun without the original sales invoice? Therefore, I am disinclined to sell the Tolex case separately so please don't ask. Notice I'm not presenting a case or letter as 'factory', either - BrowninG never had their own factory and Tolex cases were not made in Belgium. Guns were shipped in boxes, not cases. I'm sure the cases were made in someone's 'factory'. So don't be misled by semantics or misinformation. By the same token - a 'factory' letter for these guns would have to originate from Fabrique Nationale in Herstal, Belgium.....because that's where they were manufactured.
Regarding Inquiries:
As a researcher & collector (and shooter) of the Superposed, I understand the importance of verifying as many details as needed to avoid the trouble (to both buyer and seller) of shipping for inspection, only to be returned. I have attempted to represent my items accurately and price them fairly, given my current knowledge of FN/BrowninG Superposed production history and details including originality, authenticity, desirability, and availability in the current collectible firearms market based on years of study, research, and recording recent historical sales data. Collectors know that the actual condition/details can be confirmand and either agree (or disagree) with the seller's valuation, only via personal inspection – so it is pointless to waste time (seller's and buyer's) making a counter-offer or attempt to negotiate without benefit of in-person review. Simply put, I have NO intention of entertaining lower offers.
For those of you 'watching' - There are 4 of you, now. Thank You!.... I genuinely appreciate your interest although I'm never certain what is actually being 'watched' other than an item's eventual disappearance to another collector for the next 10-30 years. These are becoming increasingly difficult to find in high, original condition - so if you have any inclination to own one of these unique Gr III guns, please don't hesitate to contact me before someone else does. Remember part of the price is due to the absolutely mint-condition Tolex case worth $900 - $1,000 alone (or higher) - particularly if a collector doesn't HAVE one, has been looking for one, and is disgusted with fantasy prices for otherwise, non-functionl junk.
Transaction Details:
Once a buyer notifies me and pursues 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 FFL’s e-mail address (provided upon request). FFL-to-FFL shipments only. Buyer pays $80.00 shipping and insurance costs (UPS Ground) to lower 48. International shipments considered. Payment by Personal Check, Certified Check, or Money Order. Appropriate waiting/clearance period applies to each. 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 unpackaging 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. 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 initial shipping and insurance costs plus $35 (my FFL’s re-transfer fees) if the item's condition is verified 'as-sent'. Feel free to ask questions and request photos of specific views via e-mail feature below. I’m not opposed to one-on-one conversation to help you gain a comfort level with this item and the seller. Not all guns (nor sellers) are alike. Thank you for your interest and serious consideration.
SOLD