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LOT 3455
Magnificent Ken C. Hunt Master Game Scene Engraved and Gold Inlaid Purdey Side by Side 20 Gauge Side Lock Shotgun with Case - Serial no. 27755, 20 gauge, 28 inch solid rib bbl., blue/casehardened finish, walnut stock. Blued steel dovetail lump barrels with a single bead sight on the matted flat rib, London nitro proofs, chambers proved and measured at 2 3/4 inches (with ejectors), and chokes measured at modified/improved modified. Casehardened assisted opening action and lock plates, London proofs on the water table, removable firing pin bushings, single trigger, and sliding tang safety with gold inlaid “SAFE” marking. The locks are both engraved with gold inlaid bird scenes, the left lock shows a pair of mallards descending down onto the water and the right shows a trio of doves in flight. The signature of “K.C.HUNT” is marked at the bottom of both locks below the engraving. The balance of the locks, fences, trigger guard, tangs, and action are all covered in beautiful broad floral scroll. Each lock is marked “J.PURDEY & SONS.” and “LONDON ENGLAND” with the underside of the receiver marked “J.PURDEY/&/SONS/LONDON/ENGLAND”. Nicely figured checkered walnut splinter forearm with Anson latch and straight grip stock, gold stock oval with the initials “FSW”, and checkered bare butt. Includes a leather bound takedown case bearing the name “FRANK S. WYLE” on the exterior lid containing a Purdey trade label and factory data sheet attached to interior lid, nickel snap caps, oiler, and cleaning tools. Barrel and stock measurements: bore diameter at 9 inches from breech proved at .615/.615 and measured at .617/.617 inches; choke constriction .014/.023 inches; minimum wall thickness .028/.032 inches; drop at comb 1 7/16 inches; drop at heel 2 inches; length of pull 14 1/8 inches; cast-off; weight 5 lbs. 13 oz. CONDITION: Very fine, retaining 95% original blue on the barrels with 90% original case colors on the locks and action with an area of wear on the underside. The metal shows generally light handling evidence with the main area of wear on the breech end of the left hand barrel. The engraving is crisp and 99% of the gold inlay remains. The niter blue is faded/absent from some of the action pins and there is some wear on the lower tang. The wood is very good, showing some mild scratches and nicks throughout with overall sharp checkering on the wrist and forearm. The case is very good with a broken strap and mild wear overall. Mechanically excellent. Estimate: 22,500 - 42,500