[TOOLMAKER 251]

Look at the water table for grade such as vh, gh, dh, if there's a e at the end it means ejectors. Beavertail or splinter forend, dogs head plastic butt plate, skeleton butt plate, milled rib vs factory ventilated rib, barrel length, choke, single trigger, double trigger, English grip, pistol grip, position of top lever.

 

[settersam]

It is important to know if barrels are original length. The weight of the barrel is marked on the underside. It is the only way to tell if they are original length. Almost all parts have serial numbers or at least the last couple numbers.
Dick Mills

 

[BILL GRILL]

Doug, Frame size is also important. It is marked on water table also. Take a bunch of good pictures.

 

[twoatlow8]

If you can supply me the serial numbers I have the book that lists about 80% of the factory ledgers on how the guns left the factory. Original Condition (How it left the Factory) is the most important thing to consider for value.

This means configuration and Factory ORIGINAL finish! The next thing is Grade this will be marked with a letter or number on the "watertable" this is the flat area of the reciever that the barrels rest on. The number 2 will be a GH the number 8 would be an A1 Special.

The next thing is gauge, the smaller the better. I think the barrels are most important, here are some things to look for.

Are the barrels Fluid steel or Damacus? Are they the original lenght? Are the bores pitted? Have the chokes or chambers been modified? It is important to check the wall thickness to be sure the barrels were never honed too thin. Are the ribs in good condition, do the barrels "Ring"?

Other things that add value are single trigger, automatic ejectors, Beavertail forend, Vent Rib. It is VERY IMPORTANT that these are FACTORY ORIGINAL and not added later!!!

Is the wood cracked or altered?

There are a bunch of other things to look for these are the basics.
I would be interested in these guns if you are going to sell them.... please let me know.

Good Luck!!!
Scott

 

[WS-1]

Don't forget case % of case color, freckling, and % of barrel blue. If you can do a photo essay of the guns and post the pictures, there are VERY knowlegable guys here who will help you determine value and provide a solid marketplace be it for a 12 ga. Trojan full/full or a 28 ga. skeleton butt DHE.

Kit

 

[Roger Brenner]

Doug: I sent you an email and PM...please give me a call. Thanks, Roger

 

[Bruce Em]

Any demand for Damascus and would anyone shoot them if they had good appearance?

I would be concerned but have heard to the contrary.

thanks