Belgian 12 Gauge Side-by-Side, 32 in Barrels, Right-Hand Side-Lever, External Hammers — Made for J. C. Bergman, Austin, Tex. (1893–1924)
This Belgian-made 12 gauge side-by-side was built for the Austin, Texas retailer J. C. Bergman and carries that inscription on its concave game rib. It features a right-hand side-lever opener, external hammers, back-action sidelocks, and long 32-inch damascus barrels. Liège proof marks and controller stamps support its origin and timeframe of manufacture between 1893 and 1924.
Light border and rosette engraving adds a restrained decorative touch.
Condition
Overall Condition: Poor condition.
Bore Condition: Poor - Noticeable dirt, stains, significant corrosion or damage.
Bore Fouling: Severe Fouling - Extensive corrosion, pitting, or erosion.
Specific Condition Notes: This shotgun is not in a condition to be fired and is sold as-is. The action is loose, the stock is loose, and the bore is heavily fouled. It is best suited for display or decoration.
What’s Included
- 12 gauge side-by-side shotgun
The rib is retailer-marked "MADE FOR J. C. BERGMAN, AUSTIN, TEX." on a concave game rib, a clear link to its Texas sales history. The 32-inch damascus barrels present the long, traditional game gun profile and are configured for a two-round capacity.
Its mechanical layout includes a right-hand side-lever opener, external hammers, and double triggers on a break-action frame. Back-action sidelocks and a Deeley-style forend latch align with late 19th to early 20th century Belgian sporting-gun practice.
Proof and inspection marks confirm Belgian origin: crowned oval ELG definitive proof, the Perron (tower) inspection mark, star-over-letter controller stamps, and a diamond-shaped gauge/bore mark. Stamped numerals "11" on the flats and a hand-stamped "17.0" bore notation are present on the underside metal, consistent with period Belgian bore markings.
Stocking and trim are classic and understated, with a straight-hand buttstock and splinter forend in plain, uncheckered wood. Light border and rosette engraving appears around lockplate screws and edges, providing tasteful detail without excess. Length of pull measures 14.5 inches.
Additional observations include matching internal assembly numbers on components, further supporting the gun’s originality within its assembly. The overall feature set and Liège proof suite place its manufacture in the 1893–1924 era.