16ga.com ~ View topic

Joined: 15 Dec 2005 Posts: 59

I know nothing about classic SxS's I have a 16ga 525 but I am kinda thinking it might be fun to have an old SxS.It wouldn't have to be a 16ga maybe a 20ga. to start with. What does a guy look for and where do you start I am thinking something fairly reasonable to began with in case I either get burned or find out I dont like it. Any help would be great
Thanks
Scott

Interesting Scott-maybe it's the planatary allignment of the Spring Equinox, but you started this thread about the same time last year Very Happy

http://www.16ga.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=969
Now just go buy something! Wink

Joined: 18 Mar 2007 Posts: 280 Location: Southern Ohio

None will be fairly reasonable, compared to a pump or semi-auto..Look for originallity, avoid cut stocks with pads.. Normally on American guns, the barrel lengts will be 28, 30 and 32 inches only about 2% or less had 26" barrels, if odd number or fractions, they've most surely been cut.. Some decent buys can still be had in The Fultons, made by Hunter Arms and Nitro Specials, made by Ithaca, The Meridem or AJ Aubry is a nice gun, but yo find a lot that are off face. Good luck... MDC

Guest

You will pay a higher premium for a 20 gauge than you are likely topay for a 16 gauge so a 12 gauge will be your least expensive in any classic double because more of them were made.

There are hardly any sleepers on the market anymore, however, there are some decent buys in Lefever Arms Co side lock models (Not the later Ithaca made guns) and Ithaca NID models made from 1925 to 1948 with guns made after about 1935 made without the cocking indicators being my favorite. If bought correctly these guns should hold or increase in value.

Joined: 15 Dec 2005 Posts: 59

Well I'll be..... I knew I asked about SxS's before but I was thinking it was on a different forum. I followed the provided link and answered some of my questions But I still don't feel confident enough to run out and buy one. So I am still looking for opinions and advice.
Thanks
Scott

Scott,

Lefever Nitro Special, Hunter Fulton or Hunter Special, and a little more expensive the Ithaca NID. All except the Ithaca can be found in excellent condtion for well under $1000 ($500-800 depending on model, gage, and condition). Many of these guns will have 2 9/16" chambers except those built around 1930 or later (varies by maker).

Marc

Member Joined: 02 Feb 2006 Posts: 602 Location: western pa

For quality,solid guns,from least expensive first; I'd recomend the Lefever Nitro, Fox(Savage)B model, model 24 Win.,Ithaca NID,Fox Sterlingworth. As always, condition dictates price. Any of these guns in reasonable condition are a good place to start.

Member Joined: 01 Jun 2006 Posts: 182 Location: Minnesota

Hey Gang,

I spent 3 days of my last R&R shopping for a SxS with all your emails in tow. Looked at one of each and ended up buying a Winchester Model 24 on AA when I got back here. My son says it is a beauty and he had his friend's dad shoot it too and he gave it very high marks too. I will get to try it in about a month. Thanks for all your advice. This may be just a start. I did shoot an Elsie in my research and really liked it but it was over 3X the price of the 24.

Things are going pretty well here in Baghdad.
Gary

Gary, You back for good or just a vist? Good to have you back either way
Tim

Gary, great choice, have fun with it, and I know it's your job and all, but a hearty God bless you and thank you very much for your part in fighting the enemies of our country's freedom, I am very grateful to you, and all those with you,

Duncan

Member Joined: 01 Jun 2006 Posts: 182 Location: Minnesota

Tim and Duncan,

I was at home for 12 days R&R and had one of the best times of my life going to gun shops. I am back in Baghdad now but I will be home shortly. It has been quite an experience and truly an honor to work along side our armed forces. Thanks for your kind words. I am sure the 24 will be a great starter SxS.

Gary

Rember, if you make it to Fat Teddy land I owe you a hunt(caned though it will be) or at least a lobster boil and a Sam Adams, or 6. Thanks for all you and the boys are doing over there.

Tim

Member Joined: 20 Mar 2005 Posts: 1522 Location: NH

Gary, we've never met but thanks for all the work you are doing abroad. I hope that some day I'll get to meet you and we'll both let huns buy us a lobster dinner or 4. Razz

Same here Gary. Its tough being short. Just stay low and get home safe.