Darne Model P17 12 GA 27" SK/M Side by Side Sliding Breech Shotgun, MFD 1965Our Assessment: Although it may be the answer to an unasked question, the Darne sliding breech side by side is unique. The sliding breech mechanism was patented in 1894 and improved in 1909; the action is still being produced in France on high end shotguns and double rifles. While it seems unorthodox to users of break-action shotguns, the design is actually quite elegant and results in guns which are quite light and balanced. Whether you're looking to challenge yourself on the skeet range or take care of some pheasant, grouse or quail, this a great gun that will also turn some heads. Please see our photos and good luck in your bidding!
Make: Darne (France)
Model: P-17
Serial Number: II757
Year of Manufacture: 1965
Caliber: 12 Gauge
Action Type: Side by Side Double Barrel Sliding Breech Shotgun
Markings: Standard Darne markings
Barrel Length: 27"
Choke: The left barrel is Skeet, Fixed. The right barrel is Modified, Fixed.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a bead fixed to the rib above the muzzles. The top of the rib is grooved and textured to help reduce glare.
Weight: 6 lbs, 2.6 oz.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece checkered wood featuring an ebony-inlay tip, a straight grip, a straight comb and a ventilated recoil pad with adhesive overlay. The stocks have cracked through the wrist and have visible metal studs from repair. There are scattered nicks, scuffs, scratches, and scrapes. There are areas of oil staining and finish wear. The checkering is generally strong. The LOP measures 14 3/4" and 13 7/8" from the fronts of the triggers to the back of the recoil pad, and 13 3/4" and 12 7/8" to the wood. The drop at the comb is 1 5/8". The drop at the heel is 2 1/8". The cast is slightly off. The stocks are in Very Good overall condition as repaired.
Type of Finish: Blue and Coin
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bores are mostly bright. There are scattered scratches and light erosion in the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bores rate a 7 or 8 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 80% of its metal finish. There are areas of thinning and discoloration scattered over the barrel set. The barrel set has scattered nicks, scuffs, spots of discoloration from previous oxidation, and areas of erosion. There are areas of pitting that have been touched up at the front of the barrel set. The coin finish components have some scattered areas of discoloration from previous oxidation. There are marks in the sides of the trigger guard. There are weld marks at the rear of the trigger guard. The screw heads are well-defined. The markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun is in Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this shotgun. As with all used firearms, a more thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
CA LEGALITY: C&R: YES, CA PPT: NO.
SHOTGUNS