Rare Hoffman Arms Co. No. 482 12 GA SxS Boxlock Side by Side Shotgun, C&R
SOLD FOR: $3,960.00
WOA#: WY240611RD060
Make: Hoffman Arms Co.
Model: No. 482
Serial Number: 98598
Year of Manufacture: 1925-1930
Gauge: 12 Gauge. 2 ¾” Shells
Action Type: Break-Open Side by Side Shotgun with Extractors, Double Triggers.
Markings: The left side of the receiver is marked “HOFFMAN ARMS CO.”. The right side of the receiver is marked “ARDMORE OKLA.”. The right barrel is marked “MADE BY HOFFMAN ARMS CO. No 482”. The left barrel is marked “ARDMORE, OKLA. 12 GAUGE”. The inside of the forend iron is marked “98598”. There are a series of British proofs on the barrel flats.
Barrel Length: 29”
Choke: Full & Full. Fixed.
Sights / Optics: There is a metallic bead at the front of the serrated rib.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are a two piece checkered walnut with a capped straight grip, straight comb, Hawkins vented rubber buttpad, and splinter forend. There are no chips or cracks. The checkering is mostly sharp. The LOP measures 12 5/8” and 13 1/2” from the front triggers to the back of the buttpad respectively. There is a right hand cast. The right side of the buttstock has a few nicks, compressions, and scratches. There is a minor loss on the left side of the forend at the metal. Overall, the stocks are in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blued, Case Color.
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bores are very bright with minor fouling. There are a few small dings. In this writer’s opinion the bores rates 8/10 for C&R.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 95% of its metal finish. The case color is strong throughout save for the bottom tang. The bluing on the barrel is strong with only a few spots that have faintly thinned and taken some oxidation. The receiver has a couple rust freckles on the bottom. The engraving is very clean, crisp, and attractive with some of the best engraving we have ever seen. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun rates in Excellent condition for C&R.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The barrels lock up to the frame with no play. We have not fired this shotgun. As with all used firearms, cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: The Hoffman Arms Co No 482 12GA Double Barrel Shotgun is a remarkable artifact from a company celebrated for its meticulously crafted firearms. Established in 1923, Hoffman Arms Co. quickly distinguished itself by producing some of the finest bolt-action rifles in pre-WW2 America. When the company transitioned to Ardmore, Oklahoma in 1925, it not only continued its tradition in rifles but also ventured into crafting exceptional shotguns, albeit in smaller numbers, making such pieces rare and highly sought after.
This particular shotgun, the No 482, exemplifies the bespoke craftsmanship that Hoffman was known for. Imported as a barreled action from Birmingham, known for its quality steel and precision in gunsmithing, it was then finished in Hoffman’s workshop to the customer’s exact specifications. This process likely included the addition of fine wood for the stock and detailed engravings on the action – true hallmarks of the custom gunmaking that characterized Hoffman’s output as their engravings are some of the most beautifully detailed works seen on a gun.
Given the involvement of experts like James V. Howe and John Wright, who brought experience from prestigious firms such as Griffin & Howe and Holland & Holland, this No 482 was finished to exceptional standards. The presence of these craftsmen at Hoffman suggests a blend of American ingenuity with European tradition, culminating in a firearm that was both a functional tool and a piece of fine art.
Collectors and enthusiasts of unique and historically significant firearms would regard this not just as a weapon, but as a piece of history, embodying the pinnacle of custom gunsmithing of its era. The rarity of Hoffman’s shotguns adds an extra layer of allure, making this piece a treasured addition to any collection, celebrated for its beauty, craftsmanship, and the legacy of a notable American gunmaker. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.