by Oliver Hartner
Few pieces evoke an aura of tradition quite like a side-by-side double gun. Though the manufacture and metallurgy of side-by-side double guns have evolved, the genius of their mechanical design remains largely unaltered. Those wishing to shoot a side-by-side shotgun often choose between purchasing a vintage or contemporary make and model, and below are some considerations that might help make a decision.
The Vintager
Many of the vintage side-by-side shotguns in use today function as well now as they did generations ago. Several firms built them entirely by hand, and those that weren’t handmade required more hand-finishing than most contemporary shotguns. This means you can get a lot of “gun for your money” when buying a vintage side-by-side. The skilled labor required to build these guns comes at a premium that’s unattainable by most of today’s hunters looking for a new gun. It’s truly remarkable to hold a fine vintage side-by-side knowing its fit and finish were accomplished without using a computer. In essence, you’re buying a fully-functioning piece of artisan history, including the lineage of those who built it, those who engraved it and those who owned it before you. However, mileage may vary depending upon the kind of care the gun received over its life.
To avoid a money pit – or physical impairment – anyone interested in owning and shooting a vintage side-by-side must learn how to evaluate a potential purchase. They must know the history of the gun’s make and model, learn how to assess its current condition and, if possible, obtain a complete record of its prior ownership. This will help determine a fair and accurate price point for the gun. Since vintage side-by-side shotguns required skilled labor to build, their servicing and repair require a level of competence far beyond the ability of some modern gunsmiths. Those interested in owning and using a vintage side-by-side should find a gunsmith who can custom create and fit broken parts, accurately gauge the tolerances of the barrels and action in their current condition and repair or replace any broken wood before purchasing the gun. Otherwise, its new owner might experience buyer’s remorse at best and, at worst, a trip to an emergency room.
Many of these older guns use lighter loads than those commonly available from a big box store. But this should not dissuade anyone from buying a vintage side-by-side. Boutique manufacturers produce reputable ammunition for these guns, and while their cartridges cost slightly more, using them can extend the viability of a vintage side-by-side for its next generation of owners.
Modern Guns for Old Souls
Side-by-side shotguns seem to be experiencing something of a renaissance among wingshooters, and the appeal of their simple function and classic fashion has led most major shotgun manufacturers to offer them as options. Technological improvements in manufacturing can produce affordable side-by-side shotguns at varying price points that will tolerate the pressures of any cartridge fitting the gun’s chamber (though the shooter might regret such felt recoil). Many of these modern side-by-sides also feature screw-in chokes, expanding their versatility for hunting multiple game species. In addition, the fit and finish achievable by technology today rivals or surpasses that of many handmade guns of yesteryear, all while improving the strength and durability of their design.
Nevertheless, as the saying goes, you get what you pay for, and buying a poorly manufactured modern side-by-side could cause more grief than a vintage one. This should go without saying, but buyers should research and review any modern side-by-side shotguns under consideration to ensure they have a warranty against manufacturing defects. To have a pleasurable double gun experience, you should buy the best modern or vintage side-by-side shotgun your financial resources will allow.
What Worked For Me … For Now
For the past few years, I pined for a vintage model W.W. Greener Facile Princeps with Damascus barrels. I researched the maker, found a gunsmith and planned to get one as soon as I could find one in acceptable condition. Then, my eyes wandered, and I found myself enchanted by another beauty – a John Dickson and Son Scottish Round Action. I fell hard for them without ever having touched one. This infatuation carried on for several months until I faced the realization that none of my guns are sacrosanct, and though I spare them any abuse, they get used. Would I want to take a W.W. Greener or John Dickson and Son into the field on anything other than a bluebird day? Do my mediocre shooting abilities warrant such extravagance? My answer to both these questions was no … for now. And so, I bought a reliable modern side-by-side of Italian make and used the price difference on much-needed shooting practice. Kicking the can further down the road on a British best means I’ll be getting a better gun and shooting it well when the time comes.
