Darne Type 10 Sliding Breech 12 GA SXS Side by Side Shotgun, 1962-1968 C&R
SOLD FOR: $2200
LSB#: 210421JB27
Make: Darne
Model: Type 10
Serial Number: 5Z391
Year of Manufacture: 1962-1968
Gauge: 12 Gauge, 2 3/4” Shells
Action Type: Side by Side, Sliding Breech Shotgun with Dual Triggers.
Markings: The bottoms of the barrels and the barrel flats have a series of French St. Etienne proofs, the bottom of the right barrel is marked with the serial number “5Z391”. The barrel flat also has French proofs and “DARNE / TYPE 10”. The top of the receiver with a crown over “PT” proof and the serial number “5Z391”. The under-side of the lever is marked with the serial number “5Z391”, found again on the bottom of the breech-block and the inside of the trigger guard. The top of the lever has a Darne logo.
Barrel Length: 27”
Choke: Left barrel: Right: Modified, fixed. Left: Improved Modified, Fixed.
Sights / Optics: There is a brass bead at the front of the solid rib. The top of the rib has a wave-like pattern for glare reduction and is concave.
Weight: 6 lb., 5.9 oz.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is two-piece checkered walnut with beavertail forend, semi-pistol grip, straight comb and serrated black plastic Darne buttplate. The stocks have a few scattered light nicks and minor scuffs. The checkering is well defined, generally sharp. There are no chips or cracks. Drop at comb is approximately 1 5/8″, drop at heel 2 1/4″. The LOP measures 14 3/8″ and 13 5/8″ from the fronts of the triggers to the back of the buttplate. The plate has scattered minor wear with sharp serrations. Overall, the stocks are in Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Blued and Case Color
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bores are bright. There is no erosion in the bore. The left barrel has a few minor dents which are barely visible in the bore, about 7″ from the muzzle.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 97% of its metal finish. The grasping knobs on the lever have light handling wear and there is minor operational wear. Otherwise, there are only light handling marks. The screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun is in about Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. This shotgun has a unique sliding breech which is unlocked by a “T” shaped lever; this design made Darne famous and was copied by many gunmakers. We have not fired this shotgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: Although it may be the answer to an unasked question, the Darne sliding breech side by side is unique. The sliding breech mechanism was patented in 1894 and improved in 1909; the action is still being produced in France on high end shotguns and double rifles. This particular example is in 12 gauge with 27″ barrels. Weighing just under 6 1/2” pounds, it’s a lightweight, trim side by side with a very elegant appearance. Please see our photos and good luck!