Aguste Francotte Von Legerke Detmold Model 18 12 GA SXS Double Shotgun, C&R
SOLD FOR: $1375
LSB#: 210126RC07
Make: Auguste Francotte, imported by Von Lengerke & Detmold
Model: 18
Serial Number: 35682
Year of Manufacture: 1909-1929
Gauge: 12 Gauge, 2 1/2″ Shells
Action Type: Break-Open Boxlock Side by Side Shotgun with Ejectors and Cocking Indicators
Markings: Each side of the receiver is marked “A. FRANCOTTE MAKER & PATENTEE / LIEGE BELGIUM”, the bottom tang is marked “35682”, and the water table is marked “35682”, “18” and with Belgian proof marks. The forearm bracket is marked “35682”, “18”, with a Francotte trademark and “PATENT / 1206”. The underside of the right barrel is marked “CHOKE”, “35682”, the bottom of the left has “1268 / 12” and each has Belgian proofs and a Francotte trademark. Each barrel flat has Belgian proofs and “FRANCOTTE CHOKEBORE”. The top of the right barrel is marked “VON LENGERKE & DETMOLD”, the top of the left “U.S. AGENTS NEW-YORK”. The guard is marked “35682”. The receiver has Model 18 grade engraving.
Barrel Length: 28”
Choke: Left: Full, Right: Improved Cylinder, Both Fixed
Sights / Optics: There is a brass bead at the front of the rib. The rib is serrated for glare reduction.
Weight: 6 lb., 9.9 oz.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece checkered walnut with splinter forend, pistol grip, straight comb and ventilated brown rubber Pachmayr recoil pad. The stocks have scattered nicks, scuffs and scratches, and there is some stubborn residue in the buttstock. The forend has a chip on the left edge toward the front and there are a few tiny losses around the edges of the wrist. The checkering is well defined. There are no cracks. The LOP measures 14 1/4″ and 13″ from the fronts of the triggers to the back of the recoil pad, 13 1/2″ and 12 1/4″ to the back of the wood. The pad has light wear and has hardened slightly with age. Overall, the stocks are in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blue & Case Color
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bores are bright. There is no erosion in the bores.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 85% of its metal finish. The finish is thinning at all edges. The barrels have some scattered light finish wear, nicks, scuffs and scratches with some light surface erosion toward the muzzle-end. The receiver’s case color has muted in most exposed areas, but is still pretty strong in protected areas such as the water table, under the lever and around the triggers. The screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun rates in Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions properly including ejectors. The barrels lock up to the receiver with no play. The safety engages automatically when the action is opened. We have not fired this shotgun. As with all used firearms, cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: Auguste Francotte was the maker of some of Belgiums finest double guns. This example of his work is a Model 18, imported to the United States by Von Lengerke & Detmold in the early 1900s. The gun shows honest wear from use over the last century, but retains great bores and strong mechanics. This will make a nice addition to a collection, but could still make for a great bird gun for the next 100 years. Please see our photos and good luck!