The included letter from master gun and rifle maker Leslie A. Paul formerly of Purdey, Henry Atkin, and John Powell, confirms the serial number, gauge, configuration, weight, and gives detailed information on each step of the manufacturing process including the names and credentials of the individual craftsman responsible for producing this gun. It states the shotgun was manufactured in 1968 for John Snyder, the director of Mallory Batteries in the U.K. Features 2 3/4 inch chambers, selective auto ejectors, and improved cylinder/full chokes. The gun was stocked by Brian Sorrell; barrels struck, polished and regulated by Stephen York; Leslie Paul stuck and polished the action; barrels were blacked by the Johnson Brothers; casehardening was done by Ray St. Ledger; and then the gun was assembled, regulated, and finished by Leslie Paul. All of these workmen were regarded as some of the best in the trade at the time. The rib is inscribed "Made by John Powell agt. For J.E. Snyder" with J.E. Snyder in gold wire inlay. Each barrel has a 1 inch wedge of fine scroll engraving just forward of the breech. The casehardened receiver and side plates feature masterfully executed scroll engraving with a highly detailed pheasant and dog scene on the left plate, a brilliantly contrasting gold inlaid duck on the underside, and "MADE FOR J.E. Snyder" in fine gold wire inlay on the right plate. The left plate is signed "K.C. HUNT". Fitted with dual triggers, tang mounted thumb safety, and gold lined cocking indicators. Mounted on a multi-point checkered fancy walnut splinter forearm and straight grip stock with fine visible figure, inscribed silver initial oval reading " TO JOHN FROM RITA/J.U.A/25 DEC 1968", and a smooth horn buttplate. The barrel and stock measurements are: bore diameter at 9 inches from breech .728/.728 inch; wall thickness at 9 inches from breech .041/.041 inch; drop at comb 1 1/2 inches; drop at heel 2 1/4 inches; length of pull 14 3/4 inches; cast on; toe in; weight 6 lbs. 11.8 oz. Includes an unmarked leather bound, hardwood takedown case with two nickel snap caps.
Excellent. 99% original blue finish remains with some small nicks and surface scratches and a small area on the left barrel showing some mild thinning. The receiver and side plates have 65% original muted case colors with the balance an attractive smooth gray patina with sharp engraving, crisp markings, brilliant gold inlay, and handling marks. The buttstock and forend are excellent with crisp checkering, rich color, and some small dings around the initial oval. The case is excellent with some mild scuffs on the exterior.
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