Browning M. Shimomura Engraved BT-99 Pigeon Grade 12 GA Single Shotgun 1981

SOLD FOR: $2538.13

LSB#: 230527JS015

Make: Browning

Model: BT-99 Pigeon Grade

Serial Number: 05464PZ299

Year of Manufacture: 1981

Gauge: 12 Gauge 2 ¾”

Action Type: Top-Break Single Barrel with Ejector

Markings: The receiver features decorative floral scroll and border engraving with pigeons on either side and the right side is signed “M. SHIMOMURA”. The top tang is marked “05464PZ299”. The forend hardware is marked “5464”. The left side of the barrel is marked “BROWNING ARMS COMPANY MORGAN, UTAH & MONTREAL P.Q. / MADE IN JAPAN”. The left side of the locking lug is marked “32*-”. The bottom of the barrel is marked “05464”, “H” in a dashed circle, a circled “SP” with three lines, and “NP”. The right side of the barrel is marked “BT-99 SPECIAL STEEL 12 GA. SHELLS- 2 3/4”. The bottom of the lug is marked “NP”.

Barrel Length: 32” Ported w/ Vent Rib

Choke: Fixed, Improved Modified

Sights / Optics: This shotgun is mounted with a white bead front sight and a small white mid-rib bead that appears to be damaged. Both of these are mounted on a high-ventilated trap rib. The rib has wavy serrations for glare reduction.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are high gloss checkered walnut with a beavertail forearm, pistol grip, Monte Carlo comb, and a brown ventilated rubber Browning recoil pad. There are some minor draglines on the right side of the buttstock and a small cluster of pores on the right. There is a nick near the toe and a few faint marks on the forearm. The checkering is sharp and there are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 14 1/4” from the front of the trigger to the back of the still pliable recoil pad. The pad shows minor wear. The stocks rate in about Fine-Excellent overall condition.

Type of Finish: Blue & French Gray

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright. There is no erosion. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10/10.

Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 98% of its metal finish. The barrel shows some scattered faint marks with a notable scratch on the bottom towards the midpoint. On both sides of the barrel, there is some minor loss from contact with the receiver. Otherwise, there is no significant wear. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun rates in about Fine-Excellent condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The ejector works properly. There is no safety. We have not fired this shotgun. As with all previously owned items, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.

Our Assessment: Since its introduction in 1968, the Browning BT-99 has had a loyal following from veteran shooters as well as those just getting into the sport of trap. These shotguns are very simple yet elegantly designed and the quality is hard to match. This trap gun has a great feel and was used respectfully by its previous owner. The receiver features Pigeon Garde engraving done by M. Shimomura in a French Gray finish with a blued barrel. This gun would make a terrific trap gun and in its high condition, it would also sit nicely in a Browning collection. This shotgun was manufactured in 1981, though it would be hard to believe just by looking at it. Don’t pass up on this beautiful classic! Please see our photos and good luck!

-Greenfield