Franchi Instinct Sideplate 16 Gauge Over/Under Shotgun with 28in Vent Rib Barrels, Case-Colored Receiver, and Factory Engraved Sideplates
This Franchi Instinct Sideplate is a 16 gauge over/under built in Italy and marked "FRANCHI / INSTINCT SIDEPLATE." It features 28in barrels with a ventilated rib and a red fiber-optic style front sight, along with a mottled case-color-style receiver finish and factory scroll engraving with gold-inlaid gamebird scenes on the sideplates. The gun is chambered for 2 3/4" shells and holds 2 rounds, with a tang-mounted sliding safety and a single trigger.
CONDITION
Overall Condition: As-new condition with no signs of prior handling beyond what’s typical from inspection (see photos).
Bore Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Mechanics: The action, safety, and trigger all function correctly.
Cosmetics: The finish and furniture show no notable cosmetic wear.
Specific Condition Notes: There are no signs of use beyond handling. Barrel fit is very tight, with full life in the locking lug. The ejectors are slightly mis-timed and likely need to be worked in.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
- Franchi factory hard case (orange)
- Franchi factory paperwork/owner’s manual
- Choke wrench
- Extended Technichoke 16ga screw-in choke tubes (markings visible: CYL/IC/IM)
Built on a break-action over/under layout, this Instinct Sideplate combines a traditional presentation with practical field features. The 28in barrels are fitted with a ventilated rib, and the front sight is a red fiber-optic style bead for a clear reference point along the rib.
The receiver carries a mottled, case-color-style appearance and is factory engraved. The sideplates show scroll engraving with gold-inlaid gamebird scenes, giving this example a distinct, verifiable factory-finished look rather than aftermarket embellishment.
Controls are set up in a straightforward configuration with a tang-mounted sliding safety and a single trigger, along with a top lever. The gun is marked for 16 GA 2 3/4" (16/70) and has a 2-round capacity.
The walnut stock and forend match the overall presentation, with a pistol-grip, checkering, and a black recoil pad with an embossed "F" logo. Stock geometry notes include a neutral grip and right-hand cast-off, and the listed length of pull is 14.75.
Choke tube markings include steel-shot suitability/restriction information: CYL and IC are marked steel-shot OK, while IM is marked no steel-shot. This shotgun is also marked with CIP proofs and import/ownership markings including "OWNED BY BENELLI USA CORP. ACCOKEEK (MD)" and "MADE IN ITALY."