Darne Model V19 28 GA French Sliding Breech SXS Double Shotgun, 1964 C&R
SOLD FOR: $5000
LSB#: 230411LH008
Make: Darne
Model: V19
Serial Number: SP1911
Year of Manufacture: 1964
Gauge: 28 Gauge, 2 3/4” Shells
Action Type: Side by Side, Sliding Breech Shotgun with Dual Triggers.
Barrel Length: 25 5/8” (65cm)
Choke: Left barrel: Right: Cylinder Bore, fixed. Left: Cylinder Bore, 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: 5 lb., 8.5 oz.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is two-piece checkered walnut with ebony-tipped forend, semi-pistol grip, straight comb and basketweave-textured black rubber Pachmayr buttpad. The stocks have scattered nicks, scuffs and scratches, most notable on the buttstock behind the grip. There is a very short, very thin crack at the rear of the bottom tang. There are areas of thinning finish in the grip areas. The checkering is well defined, and it should be noted that the forend checkering runs just barely onto the ebony tip. There are no chips or cracks. Drop at comb is approximately 1 1/2″, drop at heel 2 1/2″. The LOP measures 14 3/4″ and 13 7/8″ from the fronts of the triggers to the back of the buttpad, 13 7/8″ and 13″ to the back of the wood. The pad has minor wear and is still supple. Overall, the stocks are in Very Good-plus condition.
Type of Finish: Blued and Coin
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bores are mostly bright. There is no erosion in the bores, but there is some stubborn fouling. In this writer’s opinion, the bores rate 9 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 97% of its metal finish. The receiver has some stubborn residue which should clear up with a patient cleaning. The action shows minor operational wear. Otherwise, there are only light handling marks. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun is in Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. This shotgun has a unique sliding breech which is unlocked by a “T” shaped lever. 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: This shotgun comes in a leather-bound case with a cleaning rod set and a pair of snap-caps.
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. While it seems unorthodox to users of break-action shotguns, the design is actually quite elegant and results in guns which are quite light and balanced.
This particular example is a Model V19 chambered for 12 gauge with 65cm barrels. Weighing just over 5 1/2 pounds, it’s a lightweight, trim side by side with a very elegant appearance. Whether you’re looking to challenge yourself on the skeet range or take care of some pheasant, grouse or quail, this is a great gun that will also turn some heads. Please see our photos and good luck!
