Ant. Bertrand & Son 12 Gauge External-Hammer Side-by-Side, 30-inch Barrels, Belgian Liège Proofs (c. 1898–1900)
This Belgian-made external-hammer side-by-side from Ant. Bertrand & Son dates to circa 1898–1900 and carries Liège black-powder proofs with period gauge and bore markings. It features back-action sidelocks, a top-lever break-open action with a rib-extension doll's-head third bite, and minimal factory border engraving. Traditional appointments include 30-inch barrels with a concave rib and brass bead, a straight-grip walnut stock, and a checkered splinter forend with a checkered steel buttplate and steel trigger guard with long tang.
Condition
Overall Condition: Poor condition.
Bore Condition: Fair - Generally clean, some residue or smudges, slight corrosion.
Mechanics: Inoperable.
Specific Condition Notes: The left hammer will not set to the rear. The right hammer will set and fall when the trigger is pulled; however, it does not appear to strike the firing pin block. Gunsmith special sold as is.
What's Included
- Ant. Bertrand & Son 12 Gauge side-by-side shotgun
Proofed at Liège for black powder, this shotgun bears the crowned ELG in oval, the 12 C gauge-in-diamond, and an 18.2 mm bore diameter stamp, along with controller and inspection marks. No PV nitro proof is present, aligning with its late 19th-century production window.
The action is a top-lever break-open design with external hammers and back-action sidelocks. It uses double triggers and has rounded fences, with a capacity of two. A rib-extension doll's-head provides a third bite, a desirable period feature.
Barrels measure 30 inches and are topped by a concave rib with a brass front bead. The rib extension integrates with the top of the action to assist lock-up and adds to the classic profile of the gun.
Stocking is traditional: a straight-grip walnut buttstock with a 14-inch length of pull, paired with a checkered splinter forend. Hardware includes a steel trigger guard with a long tang and a checkered steel buttplate. Factory engraving is minimal, with tasteful border work on the locks and furniture. No top-tang manual safety is visible, and no serial number is observed on exposed surfaces.