Simson Suhl Model 74 12 Gauge Over/Under, 28 in Barrels, Coin-Finished Receiver, Factory Game-Scene Engraving (1964 Suhl Proof)
East German-built in 1964 and Suhl proofed with a circled "1" first-quality mark, this Simson Suhl Model 74 stands out for its factory game-scene and scroll engraving over a coin-finished receiver, robust Kersten-style twin top locking system with underlug, and blued 28-inch barrels marked "SPEZIAL-GEWEHRLAUFSTAHL." Matching serial numbers appear on the barrels, receiver, and forend iron, with the rib marked "SIMSON, SUHL (THURINGEN)." A Pachmayr "White Line" ventilated recoil pad is fitted, setting the length of pull at 14.0 inches.
Condition
Overall Condition: Very good condition, showing only light, superficial signs of prior handling or use.
Bore Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Specific Condition Notes: The shotgun presents well with minor scratches and small blemishes. The left ejector fires a fraction sooner than the right. The action and bores show strong life. The bores are clean and shiny.
What’s Included
- Simson Suhl Model 74 12 gauge over/under shotgun
Built in Suhl, East Germany, in August 1964, this Model 74 carries Suhl nitro proofs and the circled "1" first-quality mark. The rib is marked "SIMSON, SUHL (THURINGEN)," and the barrel steel is marked "SPEZIAL-GEWEHRLAUFSTAHL," underscoring period-correct manufacture and materials. The barrels, receiver, and forend iron share matching serial numbers.
The action is a break-action over/under boxlock with a top lever and a Kersten-style twin top locking system plus an underlug. It is outfitted with double non-selective triggers and a manual tang safety. Capacity is two rounds.
The 28-inch blued steel barrels feature a solid, matted, non-ventilated rib and a brass front bead for a clean, classic sighting plane. Fit and finish align with mid-1960s Suhl production, with crisp markings and a practical field configuration.
The receiver wears a coin finish and factory engraving that includes game-scene panels with birds on the flanks and belly, complemented by scrollwork. The trigger guard, top lever, and forend hardware are also engraved. Stocks are walnut: a pistol-grip buttstock paired with a splinter forend secured by a Deeley latch.
A Pachmayr "White Line" ventilated recoil pad has been added, yielding a 14.0-inch length of pull. The setup offers a straightforward, field-ready configuration with quality Suhl craftsmanship and period-correct markings.