Baker Gun Co. Paragon 2 Barrel Sets 30″/28″ 12 GA SXS Double Shotgun, C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,350.00
WOA# WY240611RD008
Make: Baker Gun Co.
Model: Paragon
Serial Number: 407
Year of Manufacture: 1890-1909
Gauge: 12 Gauge, 2 1/2”, Black Powder
Action Type: Side-Lock Break-Open Side by Side Double Shotgun with Extractor
Markings: The lock plates are each marked “BAKER GUN CO.”, the left has an engraved hunting dog scene and the right has a waterfowl scene. The guard is engraved “407”. The water table is marked “407. Each forend and each forend iron are marked “407”, the 30″ barrel’s forend has “1” and the 28 1/2″ iron “2”, the barrel lugs are similarly marked “1” and “2”, respectively. Each barrel flat is marked, “407”.
Barrel Length: 30” and 28 1/2″.
Choke:
30″: Full/Modified, Fixed
28 1/2″: Improved Cylinder, Cylinder Bore, Fixed
Sights / Optics: The 30″ barrel set has a large white bead at the front of the rib. The 28 1/2″ barrel set has a silver-colored bead. Each barrel set’s rib is serrated for glare reduction.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are checkered walnut with a straight grip, straight comb and a later-style BG&FCo monogram checkered black hard rubber buttplate (Baker Gun & Forging Co.). Each of the splinter forends has a triangular ebony inlay at the tip. The stocks have some scattered light nicks, scuffs and scratches. Forend #2 (28 1/2″) has a chip on the right edge near the front repaired with the original piece. There are no cracks. The LOP measures 13 7/8″ and 12 7/8″ from the fronts of the triggers to the rear of the buttplate. The plate has minor wear with well defined checkering. Drop at comb is approximately 1 1/2″, drop at heel 2 3/8″. Overall the stocks are in Very Good condition as restored.
Type of Finish: Browned Damascus & Case Color
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition:
30″: The bores are mostly bright. There is no erosion in the bores, but there is a little stubborn fouling. There are a few minor dents visible in the right bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bores rate about 8 out of 10.
28 1/2″: The bores are mostly bright with infrequent minor erosion. There are a few spots in the right bore where it appears previous dents were pressed out. In this writer’s opinion, the bores rate 7 or 8 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 80% of its metal finish. The 30″ barrel set retains generally strong finish with some edge-thinning at light wear along the rib. The 28 1/2″ barrel set shows scattered wear, but retains strong damascus patterning. The receiver’s case color is strong in some protected areas with most surfaces muted or worn to white. There are some scattered light nicks, scuffs and scratches. The action shows operational wear. The screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun is in Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. Both barrel sets lock up with no play to the receiver. The safety does not engage automatically, but functions properly when engaged manually. We have not fired this shotgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards. The action lockup is tight. The firing pins are in good shape.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The Baker Gun Company’s Paragon Grade 12-gauge side-by-side shotgun is a distinguished example of fine American craftsmanship from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. As one of the top-tier offerings from the Baker Gun Company, which was founded in Batavia, New York, in 1890, the Paragon Grade was designed for discerning sportsmen who demanded both exceptional performance and exquisite artistry in their firearms. This shotgun represents the pinnacle of the company’s production, blending functionality with luxury in a way that few other shotguns of the era could match. The Paragon Grade was crafted with the finest materials available, including high-quality fluid steel barrels or, in some earlier models, Damascus steel barrels. These barrels were known for their durability, balance, and precision, making the Paragon Grade highly reliable and accurate, whether in the field or on the shooting range. The side-by-side barrel configuration, a hallmark of classic American shotguns, was meticulously designed for perfect alignment and balance, contributing to the shotgun’s reputation for exceptional handling. What truly set the Paragon Grade apart, however, was its extraordinary level of embellishment and craftsmanship. The shotgun featured extensive and intricate engraving on the receiver, trigger guard, and other metal components. This level of decoration was complemented by the high-grade walnut stocks, which were carefully selected for their rich grain and finished with hand-cut checkering and a deep, glossy finish.
Today, the Baker Gun Company’s Paragon Grade 12-gauge side-by-side shotgun is highly prized by collectors and enthusiasts. It represents a bygone era of American gunmaking, when craftsmanship and artistry were held in the highest regard. The Paragon Grade stands as a testament to the skill and dedication of the artisans who created it, and it remains a cherished example of what is possible when functionality and beauty are brought together in a single, exquisite firearm. This example, with its two matching barrel sets, is a wonderful piece to add to any collection. Please see our photos and good luck!
Please forgive any typos, I was educated in California. -Bud
