Spanish Armas Garbi 12Ga 27 3/4” Side by Side SxS Shotgun 1970 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,151.00
LSB#: WY250323AV004
Make: Armas Garbi, Spain
Model: SXS Sidelock Hammerless
Serial Number: 8073
Year of Manufacture: 1970
Gauge: 12 Gauge, 2 3/4” Shells
Action Type: Side by Side, Hammerless Side-Lock, Top Break Shotgun with Dual Non-Selective Triggers & Lifter.
Markings: The water table in the frame is marked, “G.A.8073”. With various Spanish proofs. The barrels and forend are matched to the frame. The barrel is marked, “ARMAS GARBI – EIBAR”. The bottom of the barrels and flats have several proofs. There is an import mark on the bottom.
Barrel Length: 27 3/4”
Choke: The left choke is Full and the right choke is Mod, Fixed.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a silver bead at the front of the barrel rib.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are a two piece checkered walnut with a push button splinter forend, straight wrist, straight comb, and checkered rear of the stock. There are two sling loops. There are wear marks and scuffs throughout. The checkering is worn in spots. There are no chips or cracks. Drop at comb is 1 3/4”, drop at heel is 2 3/4”, the stock is moderately cast-off for right handed shooters. The LOP measures 13 3/4” from the front of the rear trigger to the back of the stock and 14 1/4” from the front of the forward trigger to the back of the stock; the rear face of the butt stock has checkering. The stocks rate in about Good overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blued & Chrome.
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bores are bright with minor fouling streaks. There is no notable erosion. In this writer’s opinion the bores rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 94% of its metal finish. There is light handling wear throughout. The chrome is bright. The screw heads and pins are undamaged. The markings are crisp. Overall, this shotgun rates in about Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. This shotgun features dual non-selective triggers and lifters. We have not fired this shotgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: Armas Garbi is a prestigious Spanish gunmaker known for producing high-quality side-by-side shotguns in the Basque town of Eibar, an area famous for traditional firearms craftsmanship. This 12-gauge shotgun, manufactured in 1970, features a true sidelock design with elegant lines and refined mechanical construction. With its dual non-selective triggers, lifter system, and 27 3/4-inch barrels choked Full and Modified, this shotgun is well-suited for upland game, sporting clays, or traditional European-style driven hunts. This example remains in very good overall condition, retaining approximately 94% of its original blued and chrome finish. The bores are bright with only minor fouling and no visible erosion, rating a strong 9/10. The walnut stocks display honest field wear including scuffs, handling marks, and softened checkering, but remain structurally sound. The gun features a straight English-style grip and is moderately cast-off for right-handed shooters, with a checkered butt for improved shoulder purchase. All numbered components match, and the shotgun retains its original Spanish proof marks and import stamp.
If you’re a collector or shooter who appreciates fine European craftsmanship at a more approachable price point than English doubles, this Armas Garbi represents an outstanding value. Known for building shotguns comparable in quality to best-grade British guns, Garbi’s sidelocks are revered for their durability, fit, and balance. This 1970 example, with its classic lines and well-preserved mechanical integrity, is a ready companion for the field or range, and a worthy addition to any collection of classic sporting shotguns. -R.E.
