1958 Fabrique Nationale Superposed B2 Grade 'Calling Cock' 12 gauge
Description:
New Photos 6/16/24.
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This gun was on display at the Black Prairie Helice 2-day Event - 7/19 - 7/20/24.
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Manufactured 1958. Serial No: 62060. Barrel: 30" ventilated rib w/typical FN tapered 'Field' forearm. Chokes: marked Full/Full - Actual .025/.017 (IM/LM). Dimensions: 1-1/2” x 1-3/4” x 14-3/8” to flat-backed BrowninG bakelite butt plate. Wood Condition: Original finish 85-90% and well oiled. Checkering shows normal field use-wear for its age. Metal Condition: Bluing is 97% as re-blued at some point (see blue:gray line on the fences). ‘Grayed’ metal is 95%. Factory features: Grayed trigger. Typical 'FN' slender, tapered profile 'field' forearm (standard for FN trap models - this period). Extras: Period-consistent BrowninG Pachmayr Jumbo Trap pad (renders L.O.P. of 15”) interchangeable with the butt plate without modifications. Provenance: Shipping date: October 1958 [FN archives email re: shipping journal entry]
The B2 Grade ('Calling Cock') was the FN-equivalent of the BrowninG Gr III ‘Fighting Cocks’ in the 1950’s. The right-side game scenes are identical on both models. The Pre-1960 FN engraving patterns are relatively scarce in the U.S. Trap models with a butt plate are also relatively uncommon, anywhere. "Trap models between 1952 and 1959 were sold without a recoil pad as standard but a Pachmayr Jumbo Trap pad could be ordered and installed at the factory" [Ned Schwing – The Browning Superposed]. The butt plate on No 62060 is a 'flat-backed' BrowninG bakelite and the LOP to the end of the wood (also 'flat' and un-cut) is 14” rendering an overall standard LOP of 14-3/8” consistent with 1950's trap models. This gun has the unmistakeably dark 'character' of an old English gun shop (walnut, pipe tobacco, and boiled linseed oil), and the classic appearance of the European FN F.C.S. of the 1950's. The aroma is as much a character trait as it's appearance. I purchased and imported this classic FN from the UK in 2015. Note: (added 7/12/24) - the forearm is not cracked anywhere. That is a 'rub' mark on the left side near the receiver that can be easily remedied with a proper mixture of linseed & shellac by a competent 'wood restoration specialist' (which I am not). This gun is 66 years old and was well cared-for when I imported it, 9 of those years ago. Give your collection a sense of individualism - if you have a passion for Gr III's, this FN B2 will fit right in. The price reflects export/import expenses in 2015. Those fees doubled in 2019 so even if you were to find another '50's example and try to import it, it would be cost-prohibitive to ship it here. So, this may be your best opportunity to add a European equivalent of the GR III to your collection. These don't appear often in original condition. Most of the examples I've seen have had stock work or barrel work done, and invariably always have a brand new bright red 'Silvers' pad which is quite detracting. How long might it be until you see another of these classic 'Calling Cocks" FN Superposed?
Comments:
As a researcher & collector, I understand the importance of verifying as many details as needed to avoid 'surprises'. You will only be able to confirm actual condition/details and either agree or disagree with my valuation, by personal inspection – so it is pointless to waste time (yours and mine) making a counter-offer or attempt to negotiate until you’ve reviewed the item in person. I have attempted to represent my items accurately and price them fairly, given my current knowledge of FN/BrowninG Superposed production history and details including originality, authenticity, desirability, and availability in the current collectible firearms market based on years of study, research, recording historical sales data and developing an understanding of the ‘factory’ standards of quality.
Transaction Details:
Once a buyer notifies me and wishes to pursue purchase, I will provide an address for mailing of funds and a current copy of the receiving FFL. FFL-to-FFL shipments only. Buyer pays actual shipping costs (TBD) and insurance costs (UPS Ground) to lower 48. International shipments considered. Payment by Personal Check, Certified Check, or Money Order. 7 business-day waiting/clearance period applies to all except Postal Money Orders. Electronic payments considered. The receiver of the shipment shall be responsible for inspecting the package for any signs of impact or damage and notifying the carrier before opening and before the carrier leaves FFL's premises. The listed price basically secures a 3-Day non-shooting, non-disassembly inspection, and return privileges. Item does not leave the receiving FFL’s premises until either legally transferred to the new owner or returned via that FFL. 3 Day = Day 1 is when UPS delivers the package to your FFL. Day 1 or 2, review the item and make a decision. Day 2 or 3, notify me of your intent to keep or return the item. Day 3 (if returning the item), provide a tracking number and confirmation of insurance for the declared value (listed price) and have your FFL get it on UPS ‘pick-up’ before the end of business hours. If you are not satisfied with the item as priced, just notify me and I will provide a return FFL address. Return item in the same condition and as packaged and insured for purchase amount to my FFL holder. I will re-inspect the item and refund the sale price less my initial shipping and insurance costs plus $35 (my FFL’s re-transfer fees) if the item's condition is verified 'as-sent'. Feel free to ask questions and request photos of specific views via e-mail feature below. I’m not opposed to one-on-one conversation to gain a comfort level with me. I'll be happy to provide what you need (within reason), to make an informed assessment and decision. Thank you for your interest and serious consideration. Please view my other FN and BrowninG Y-tang Superposed items and the pre-war style 32" case and Tolex 4-bbl case listings. Happy Hunting!
Price:
$6,550.00