
Beretta Silver Hawk Silverhawk 12 GA Side by Side Double Shotgun, 1961 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1702.55
LSB#: 211013LP02
Make: Beretta
Model: Silver Hawk
Serial Number: C48596
Year of Manufacture: 1961
Gauge: 12, Chambered for 2 3/4” Shells
Action Type: Side-by-Side Double Barrel Shotgun with Single Selective Inertial Trigger and Extractor
Markings: The left of the left barrel at the chamber and the right of the right barrel are each marked “PIETRO BERETTA Founded in 1680 / MADE in ITALY”; both sides are also marked “12 GAUGE”. The top of the rib at the rear is marked “BERETTA” and with a Beretta rings and arrows logo. Each side of the barrel flat is marked “CHOKE”, crown over “PB”, and “BERETTA”, the left flat is also marked with date code “XVII”, an Italian proof, the serial number, “C48596” and two five-pointed stars (Improved Modified), the right flat is also marked with two Italian proofs and three five-pointed stars (Modified). The bottom of the locking lug is marked “B / M”. The top of the forend iron is marked with the serial number, “C78596”, the interior forend wood is stamped “8596” and “409”. The water table is marked “P. BERETTA – Gardone V.T.”, “C48596”, crown over “PB” and with three Italian proofs. The bottom of the receiver is marked “SILVER HAWK”. The receiver has scroll, floriate, and border engraving with a hawk in flight on the bottom and also a knight’s helm over a shield marked “J / L / G”. The top of the lever is marked “PB”. The interior of the trigger guard is marked “8596”.
Barrel Length: 26”
Choke: Left: Improved Modified, Right: Modified. Both are fixed.
Sights/Optics: This shotgun is mounted with a gold-colored bead front sight at the front of the finely checkered solid rib.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The stocks are two-piece checkered wood with beavertail forend, black-capped semi-pistol grip, fluted straight comb, and a black checkered composite buttplate. The forend has scattered light dings and compressions, most of which are on the darker side and appear to have been oiled over. The comb has several clusters of minor dings and compressions while the sides of the buttstock have intermittent minor compressions and a few light draglines. The grip flats have several light compressions. The checkering is well defined with light handling wear and a few small, isolated spots of two or three flattened checkers each. Drop at comb is 1 5/8”, heel is 2 3/8”. The LOP measures 14 1/4” from the front of the trigger to the rear of the buttpad. The buttpad has moderate scuff wear at the heel and toe along with light nicks and dings on the outer edge. The stocks rate in about Good-Very Good overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blued with Silver-Colored Receiver
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bores are mostly bright. There are a few spots of very minor erosion in both barrels along with a few minor spots of fouling.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 94% of its metal finish. The barrel assembly has taken on a faint plum hue. There are scattered light nicks and scuffs, primarily on the left barrel. Most prominent scuff wear is on the right barrel. The receiver has only scattered minor nicks, primarily near the release latch. The screw heads are generally sharp, but are lightly toolmarked. The markings are clear, with the exception of a few on the underside of the barrel assembly which has a few markings that have worn down completely. Overall, this shotgun rates in Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The safety does not engage automatically, and must be disengaged between shots. The barrels lock up with no play to the receiver. We have not fired this shotgun. As with all used firearms, thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: Through years of production, well-proven side by side shotguns have shown off the best of Beretta’s skill. Surprisingly light and responsive, they incorporate features that enhance performance and durability while preserving their simplicity. This is a Silver Hawk, which has finish and engraving providing beauty equal to its manufacturing quality. This shotgun is in Fine condition with 94% of its finish, mostly bright bores, strong mechanics, and only some wear on the barrels. This gun is ready for the range or the field and is sure to turn some heads. Good luck and happy bidding!
