This very fine pair of Cogswell and Harrison Avant Tout shotguns are virtually identical with the exception of there sequential serial numbers, and respective "1" and "2" markings. With single bead sights on the smooth concave rib marked "COGSWELL & HARRISON Ltd. THE AVANT TOUT. 141 NEW BOND ST & 226 STRAND LONDON" with 2 3/4 inch chambers, ejectors, standard British proofs on the flats, and improved cylinder/improved modified chokes. The net number markings are found on the rib, as well as the safety catch. The receivers and lock plates are finely engraved with a classic English rose and scroll motif with standard maker's marks, dual triggers, Greener patent cross bolt, and manual safety catch on the tang. Checkered splinter forearm with Anson style latch, and straight grip buttstocks with silver initial ovals inscribed "JW", and serrated bare butts. The buttstocks have been bent for an extreme cast off at face and are not crossover or "dog leg" style stocks. The specific barrel and stock measurements for gun "A" are: bore diameter at 9 inches from breech .733/.734 inch; minimum wall thickness .035/.033 inch; drop at comb 1 3/8 inches; drop at heel 1 5/8 inches; length of pull 13 3/4 inches; the centerline of the butt is cast off approximately 1 1/4 inches from the centerline of the barrels. With a canvas covered Cogswell & Harrison motorcase marked "J.W./XV K.H." on top with a wine colored felt interior and four snap caps.

Very good as factory modified. 95% of the blue finish remains on the barrels with some scattered surface scratches, a few light rub marks, and buffed light rib markings. The receiver and lock plates have 40% original case colors with brighter colors in the more protected areas, smooth gray patina on the balance, and crisp markings. The wood is fine with attractive figure, some small gaps around the forearm fitting, refreshed rubbed oil finish, and crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent. Case is good with discoloration and staining, scuffs, and some tears in the canvas, and cracks on the leather straps.

As described in "A". The specific barrel and stock measurements for this gun are: 2 3/4 inch chambers; improved cylinder/modified chokes; bore diameter at 9 inches from breech .733/.733 inch; minimum wall thickness .033/.034 inch; drop at comb 1 3/8 inches; drop at heel 2 5/8 inches; length of pull 13 3/4 inches; the center line of the butt is cast off approximately 1 1/4 inches from the center line of the barrels.

Very good as factory modified. The barrels have 95% refinished blue with a visible dent on the left barrel, a small patch of pitting on the right side of the rib just forward the breech, slightly light rib markings, and scattered rub marks. The receiver and lock plates have a mostly gray patina with subdued original case colors in the protected areas around the fences, and traces of a light protective varnish. The modified wood is very good with a repaired chip at the tip of the forearm, slightly rounded tear drops, and well-defined checkering. Mechanically excellent.