Miller & VRL Griess Bohler 12 Gauge 30.75″ Over/Under Shotgun MFD 1920s C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,525.00
LSB#: WY250328GC010
Make: Miller & VRL Griess
Model: Over/Under Shotgun (Custom/Handmade)
Serial Number: 13759
Year of Manufacture: Circa 1920s, C&R
Caliber: 12 Gauge, 2 ¾” Shells
Action Type: Break Action Over/Under Double Barrel Shotgun, Extractors
Markings: The top of the receiver is marked “13759” The bottom of the receiver is marked “MILLER & VAL REISS MUNCHEN” The left side of the barrel is marked “BOHLER STAHL / MILLER & VAL GRIESS” And German proof marks. The right side of the barrel is marked “MILLER & VAL REISS MUNCHEN” The bottom barrel is marked “13769 / BOHLER STAHL” and more German proof marks.
Barrel Length: 30 3/4”
Choke: Fixed, Full / Full
Sights / Optics: The front bead has broken off, the white mid bead is still present and fixed to the matted rib.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is in a 2 piece wood configuration featuring a fluted straight comb, ventilated rubber buttpad, raised cheek swell, checkered prince of whales grip, horn trigger guard, and checkered forend. The LOP is 14.25” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. There are moderate handling marks present as well as some small cracks behind the receiver. The stock rates in Fair condition.
Type of Finish: Blued / Case Colored
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bores are bright and the walls are smooth. There is no visible erosion in the bores. There is some light stubborn fouling present. In this writer’s opinion, the bores rate 9/10
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 80% of its original metal finish. The balance of the finish shows light operational wear and typical thinning from age. The screw heads are sharp and serviceable. The pins are unmarred. The markings are sharp. Overall, this shotgun rates in about Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The locking mechanism is tight, and the top lever remains right of center. The barrels lock up tight to the action with no play. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This shotgun includes an additional 27” O/U barrel set. 12 Gauge Full Choke Over an 8mmJR rifled barrel. The bores are clean, the rifling is sharp.
Our Assessment: This Miller & VRL Griess over/under shotgun is a superb example of early 20th-century German craftsmanship, likely made in the 1920s in Munich. With its Bohler Stahl steel barrels and intricate machining, this shotgun reflects the high standards of a custom handmade firearm from a premier European maker. The case-colored receiver and blued finish show the attention to detail and aesthetics typical of fine German arms from this period. The presence of German proof marks, as well as the detailed inscriptions, authenticate its origin and period.
The 30.75” barrels are choked Full/Full and are ideal for traditional sporting or clays shooting. Though the front bead is missing, the mid bead remains intact and usable. The bores are clean and bright with only minor fouling, earning an excellent 9/10 rating. This firearm is accompanied by an additional 27” O/U barrel set that pairs a full-choke 12-gauge barrel over an 8mmJR rifled barrel, further increasing its value and versatility for the collector or hunter. The action is tight, the locking mechanism is solid, and overall mechanical function is strong—testament to the durability of this vintage piece.
Though the wood shows signs of age, including moderate handling marks and small cracks behind the receiver, it remains serviceable with desirable features such as a cheek swell, Prince of Wales grip, and horn trigger guard. The shotgun retains approximately 80% of its original metal finish and rates in Very Good condition overall. With its tight lockup, elegant lines, and bonus barrel set, this piece would make an excellent addition to any fine European shotgun collection. Please see our high quality photos and good luck on your bid! -M.C.
