Nice seeing someone younger like myself appreciate SxS classic shotguns, thanks for posting. I was recently speaking with a firearms dealer who had several reasonably priced classic double guns for sale. He commented that prices are dropping in the used market because the younger customers don’t appreciate these fine guns and that they prefer the newest “tacticool” firearms and accessories. He explained that he has had many older collectors lament to him that they don’t encounter many younger collectors who are interested in these classic sporting arms.
Couldn't agree more. I purchased my first three this past year and I'm totally hooked. What's even better is my 19 year old son loves them. Pretty neat carrying around a nearly 100 year old tool to go to work.
I am planning on buying an suhl simons. I am buying it from one of my dad’s friend and it is an side by side 12 ga. I really like side by side but would it be stupid buying one if I’m also going to use it for shooting clays?
I’m 18 and went from a bereta extreme that I used for pheasants grouse and woodcock just Bc I was very comfortable with it, to a 16 gauge side by side arieta. Everything about it makes the experience 20x better
I wound up getting a Merkel 147e in 16 gauge. It felt good and this model has a hand engraved game scene and hand checkering. got it used in good shape
Great to see someone in your age group appreciating the finer aspects of the SxS, as an upland gun. I stumbled upon my 20 gauge SxS years ago because I came across one that I knew I could flip for profit. On a whim, I elected to try it out while grouse hunting. I had NEVER shot better on very spooky grouse in my life! I still have that SxS. There are a few more stored next to it today. ;) So, while we're on the subject, those with a better understanding of SxSs know that English guns are the measuring stick for these sublime works of art. SxS shotguns are no different than most other sporting tools. You might start out golfing with clubs acquired at Walmart but as your palate becomes more educated, names like Titelist, TaylorMade, Callaway, Ping become more desirable. Lower handicap golfers look for better performance BUT "feel" (as well as sound in drivers) is also a critical aspect. SxSs are no different. I describe a SxS as being like a young lady: attractive, svelte, agile, nimble and...with curves in all the right places. As such, I bring you along to my visit with Mr. Moore from William, Larkin, Moore (Scottsdale, AZ). My son and I were wide-eyed as we viewed/handled the bevy of sumptuous SxSs. A gently used Piotti 28 gauge caught my eye, even if it was WELL beyond my "snack bracket" at $36,000+. My son then brought my attention to a Spanish-made SxS which was very nice at just $17,000 brand new! I said to my son, "OK, turn around, close your eyes tightly, keep them closed and you tell me which gun is the Piotti and which is the other SxS (both 28 gauge). He did so and immediately "got it". The feel of that Piotti was on another level - sublime! While many of us can only dream of owning a Holland & Holland, Purdy, McNaughton, McKay Brown, Piotti, Famars, Bosis, etc., there are still some gems out there for the well-informed discerning buyer. A well-cared-for used SxS of quality, is a better buy than a new cheaper/lesser SxS AND in time, that well-cared for gem only increases in value exponentially, while the cheap one depreciates or only holds a value consistent with the cost of living alone. Sadly, too many SxS manufacturers today have created what I best describe as intermediates or stepping-stones that cater to those migrating from a multi-use semi or pump, to a dedicated upland shotgun. These SxSs are often too heavy, thick in the neck, have crass opening and closing mechanisms and often have a harsh recoil! Far too many have a feel more resembling a boat oar! Finally, allow me to clarify that you don't need to spend any more money for a reasonable quality SxS than you do for other configurations BUT you do need to become more aware/better informed. I use a 28 gauge SxS for (wild) pheasants, quail, chukars, grouse, woodcock, Huns, etc. It elevates my hunting experiences. After all, isn't that why we do what we do? Exciting birds, fine guns, finer dogs, and like-minded hunting partners.....what memories are made of!
Here in the good old UK old side x sides are practically worthless unless it’s a Purdey or Holland and Holland etc . I just picked up a Spanish Essex with 1/4 and 1/2 chokes that is a truly working gun with a few dings etc for a whole £45 . It was unloved and unwanted but with some elbow grease and a little care is ready for use once again and it’s going to get some this Sunday shooting clays just to get acquainted . AYA number 2 side locks are sought after here too but the majority prefer over/unders and semi autos but me I prefer missing a few with a traditional side x side even if I do get odd looks and smiles . I remember when I could amble from my home to the woods about 100 yards away and bag rabbits or wood pigeon with an old .410 but sadly that’s no longer allowed in these ever increasing , difficult to understand times . How times have changed and not for the better in my humble , unwanted opinion . Enjoy your shooting while you can , it won’t last forever 😞
Don't own one but I've always known that AYA is a class act. Inherited a VH Parker and gave my son my dads Fox Sterlingworth . With few exceptions all SxS are worth having.
What I have learned when it comes to the gun chosen, it’s based on the individual. Some people have no interest other than the tool it is and tradition has no impact on their decision. For me, I like keeping the tradition alive. I have a sxs in 20ga for these purposes.
Really nice video about double barrel shotgun history, it's so hard to find this kind of videos today. Nice hunting, nice forest it's thick and not tre on one side and other tree on other side, that means there are carnivores, and herbivores too. Really nice video i appriceate it.
I haves been looking for a proper shotgun for some time now. I'm getting a SxS... I will get a brand new over under some other time. Liked & subscribed
I always hunted deer on private land in PA. One day I wondered whats stopping me from driving over to the game lands and look for grouse? I pay $100 for an out of state license why not use it? Been hooked ever since.
Check out my ww2 german side by side i bought, on my channle. I rescued it at a gun shop. Had a broken stock.. broken trigger and safety spring. I took it apart.. welded the trigger levers back tigether. Found a new apring for the safety. Doweld and epoxy the stock. Took it to the range and it fired beautifully. Its also Heavily engraved. And the history on it is amazing. I looked up the proof stamping and found out alot of ww2 history about the factory in germany it was made at. And it was also made in 1942. I love this gun, and im glad i was the one to buy it. As someone who is german myself, i took pride repairing a peice of history. And judging by the engravings on it. And me not being able to find one like this online anywhere with these engravings.. It might be one of a kind,
There is a finite number of used SXS out there that are within the means of a normal person (under 3k). All the newer fine SXS are out of reach including the vast majority of AYA's and others. The American legacy of doubles are not these over-the-top pieces designed for the european aristocracy and gentry. The American legacy is very simple durable well made guns like the older Ithaca models. But the problem is that no American manufacturer is able to produce (in the US) even a field/sporter grade double of decent quality and hand fitting for under 3-4k. In that sense the legacy is dead...outside of those few opportunities on used guns in fair condition with a lot of field marks and wear. Even a used SKB/Ithaca made in Japan is at least 2k in good condition. The fact that a company like Ruger is unable to even keep the red label line going (nevemind the gold label) is all you need to know. I would like to see an American manufacturer come out with a SXS that is superior to the Huglu/CZ stuff, looks simple but elegant, and is available at or under $1,500....but I know better.
I inherited an old bargain basement Knickerbocker SxS from my Grandfather... I have shot it some but 2.5 inch chambers are a concern. I can appreciate the Older American made guns and would love to find a Fox Sterlingworth or the likes but I guess I have a Turkish budget with four of the CZs. Three Bobwhites , one of each and a CZ Canvasback Gold 20 bought used. They fill a nice spot for under $2,400 for all four.
2:56......Exactly on all points. But Griffon & Howe are top notch makers and command a very steep price. If you want to celebrate double guns,......look to this country and the weapons made 80 to 90 years ago. A.H. Fox, Parker, L.C. Smith, Ithaca, LeFever, and Browning are some of the best examples of the gunsmithing trade. High-end Europeans were just more ornate and convoluted than our own guns. They didn't shoot any better. Another thing is buying a part of shotgunning history. If you want to go the route of high-end........look no further than Browning, Winchester, and Parker. The way it fits in the hands, .........no truer words were ever spoken. AYA makes a VERY nice gun. They are expensive. A good used American example of the breed will cost you much less, but it will be a used gun. And be about 80 to 90 years old. Good examples shoot as well as a new AYA. They just don't look new. If you don't care what your firearm looks like, .......try one of the heirloom shotguns from our own country's past. 5:32.......Beautiful piece of art? I like my art to flow from form to function. 1935 Fox Sterlingworth in 16 gauge, and Ithaca NID 1937 also 16 bore. No extra engraving, but solid engineering and hand fitted metal work and checkering. They may look plain, but they do shoot well. For $1700 for the pair, I dare you to find something so good and so cheap! We hunters need to save our money for other things like: shells, new boots, clothing, bills, food, gas to get to our shooting grounds, ....the list goes on and on. When you go to a camp,.........you went there to hunt Grouse. You are among other Grouse hunters. You all have the same experiences in the field. Or have had. It is a fraternity or sorority. It is almost the same as when my Air Force brothers get together. You have to pass it on, or it will be lost in these times of ours.
I have found that SxS is not the best for hunting, Pointablilty is not as good as other guns, o/u present a better point factor or even semi auto light weight guns are more user friendly. People need to get over it's a classic, it's not, it's old and there are so much better now to use.beretta 687, Browning belgians. Sxs need to have chambers lengthen, chokes put in. forcing cones lengthen. You can put a small fortune in a little gun and still probably couldn't hit with it. Want to shoot action cowboy get a sxs, want to rob a train get a sxs. Go to the skeet field if you can't shoot straight with it you don't need to be using it.
Why do I pine for my lost youth when I watch these? Excellent, as always.
Nice seeing someone younger like myself appreciate SxS classic shotguns, thanks for posting. I was recently speaking with a firearms dealer who had several reasonably priced classic double guns for sale. He commented that prices are dropping in the used market because the younger customers don’t appreciate these fine guns and that they prefer the newest “tacticool” firearms and accessories. He explained that he has had many older collectors lament to him that they don’t encounter many younger collectors who are interested in these classic sporting arms.
Couldn't agree more. I purchased my first three this past year and I'm totally hooked. What's even better is my 19 year old son loves them. Pretty neat carrying around a nearly 100 year old tool to go to work.
My dad introduced me to his two Superposed Lightnings as a young person. Decades later, I've never handled a shotgun so sweet as those.
I am planning on buying an suhl simons. I am buying it from one of my dad’s friend and it is an side by side 12 ga. I really like side by side but would it be stupid buying one if I’m also going to use it for shooting clays?
I’m 18 and went from a bereta extreme that I used for pheasants grouse and woodcock just Bc I was very comfortable with it, to a 16 gauge side by side arieta. Everything about it makes the experience 20x better
Correction! The Arretta 16ga made it 16X better. :)
I wound up getting a Merkel 147e in 16 gauge. It felt good and this model has a hand engraved game scene and hand checkering. got it used in good shape
Great to see someone in your age group appreciating the finer aspects of the SxS, as an upland gun. I stumbled upon my 20 gauge SxS years ago because I came across one that I knew I could flip for profit. On a whim, I elected to try it out while grouse hunting. I had NEVER shot better on very spooky grouse in my life! I still have that SxS. There are a few more stored next to it today. ;)
So, while we're on the subject, those with a better understanding of SxSs know that English guns are the measuring stick for these sublime works of art. SxS shotguns are no different than most other sporting tools. You might start out golfing with clubs acquired at Walmart but as your palate becomes more educated, names like Titelist, TaylorMade, Callaway, Ping become more desirable. Lower handicap golfers look for better performance BUT "feel" (as well as sound in drivers) is also a critical aspect. SxSs are no different. I describe a SxS as being like a young lady: attractive, svelte, agile, nimble and...with curves in all the right places. As such, I bring you along to my visit with Mr. Moore from William, Larkin, Moore (Scottsdale, AZ). My son and I were wide-eyed as we viewed/handled the bevy of sumptuous SxSs. A gently used Piotti 28 gauge caught my eye, even if it was WELL beyond my "snack bracket" at $36,000+. My son then brought my attention to a Spanish-made SxS which was very nice at just $17,000 brand new! I said to my son, "OK, turn around, close your eyes tightly, keep them closed and you tell me which gun is the Piotti and which is the other SxS (both 28 gauge). He did so and immediately "got it". The feel of that Piotti was on another level - sublime! While many of us can only dream of owning a Holland & Holland, Purdy, McNaughton, McKay Brown, Piotti, Famars, Bosis, etc., there are still some gems out there for the well-informed discerning buyer. A well-cared-for used SxS of quality, is a better buy than a new cheaper/lesser SxS AND in time, that well-cared for gem only increases in value exponentially, while the cheap one depreciates or only holds a value consistent with the cost of living alone. Sadly, too many SxS manufacturers today have created what I best describe as intermediates or stepping-stones that cater to those migrating from a multi-use semi or pump, to a dedicated upland shotgun. These SxSs are often too heavy, thick in the neck, have crass opening and closing mechanisms and often have a harsh recoil! Far too many have a feel more resembling a boat oar! Finally, allow me to clarify that you don't need to spend any more money for a reasonable quality SxS than you do for other configurations BUT you do need to become more aware/better informed. I use a 28 gauge SxS for (wild) pheasants, quail, chukars, grouse, woodcock, Huns, etc. It elevates my hunting experiences. After all, isn't that why we do what we do? Exciting birds, fine guns, finer dogs, and like-minded hunting partners.....what memories are made of!
I think you mean Purdey...for those who can't quite afford a Fabbri or Boss & Co.
Here in the good old UK old side x sides are practically worthless unless it’s a Purdey or Holland and Holland etc . I just picked up a Spanish Essex with 1/4 and 1/2 chokes that is a truly working gun with a few dings etc for a whole £45 . It was unloved and unwanted but with some elbow grease and a little care is ready for use once again and it’s going to get some this Sunday shooting clays just to get acquainted . AYA number 2 side locks are sought after here too but the majority prefer over/unders and semi autos but me I prefer missing a few with a traditional side x side even if I do get odd looks and smiles . I remember when I could amble from my home to the woods about 100 yards away and bag rabbits or wood pigeon with an old .410 but sadly that’s no longer allowed in these ever increasing , difficult to understand times . How times have changed and not for the better in my humble , unwanted opinion . Enjoy your shooting while you can , it won’t last forever 😞
Buen video y muy buena puntería lo felicito.el perro inmejorable.
That drone footage of the dog working the cover at 6:12 is awesome!!
Pretty cool! Born and raised in NJ, now living and hunting in ND for the last 3 years. Parents still live right in Hardwick.
Absolutely beautiful work! Great job!
Love hunting with my old man’s collection of Ithaca model 900s . Beautiful upland semis
Started out looking to replace a Silver Hawk that I regretted selling, ended up w/20+ pre 50's W&S and AYA doubles, no regrets.
Don't own one but I've always known that AYA is a class act. Inherited a VH Parker and gave my son my dads Fox Sterlingworth . With few exceptions all SxS are worth having.
What I have learned when it comes to the gun chosen, it’s based on the individual. Some people have no interest other than the tool it is and tradition has no impact on their decision. For me, I like keeping the tradition alive. I have a sxs in 20ga for these purposes.
Really nice video about double barrel shotgun history, it's so hard to find this kind of videos today. Nice hunting, nice forest it's thick and not tre on one side and other tree on other side, that means there are carnivores, and herbivores too. Really nice video i appriceate it.
I have a Griffin & Howe sxs and it’s a true masterpiece!!!
Great video.
I haves been looking for a proper shotgun for some time now.
I'm getting a SxS...
I will get a brand new over under some other time.
Liked & subscribed
I always hunted deer on private land in PA. One day I wondered whats stopping me from driving over to the game lands and look for grouse? I pay $100 for an out of state license why not use it? Been hooked ever since.
If SxS are an issue to shoot, comb is too low. AYA make fantastic SxS because of the higher comb. So easy to shoot
Check out my ww2 german side by side i bought, on my channle. I rescued it at a gun shop. Had a broken stock.. broken trigger and safety spring. I took it apart.. welded the trigger levers back tigether. Found a new apring for the safety. Doweld and epoxy the stock.
Took it to the range and it fired beautifully. Its also Heavily engraved. And the history on it is amazing. I looked up the proof stamping and found out alot of ww2 history about the factory in germany it was made at. And it was also made in 1942.
I love this gun, and im glad i was the one to buy it. As someone who is german myself, i took pride repairing a peice of history. And judging by the engravings on it. And me not being able to find one like this online anywhere with these engravings.. It might be one of a kind,
Where can i buy thise blaze Aya caps?
HELP!! Where can I get one of those blaze AyA caps?
I want one too🙂
@7:13 : "I recently have a two year old daughter who had a son, and I can't wait to pass on to the next generation". #editing.
I love my AYA Super Solway magnum sxs but you have to remember that an AYA is basically a copy of a Holland and Holland.
So what? Not being totally overpriced is not a crime.
@@frechwieoskar8052 He makes out that the gun is the same , it isn't.
AYA are quality Spanish shotguns and not as expensive as British side by sides
I regret that I have no family members or others who want to inherit my collection of SXS shotguns.
There is a finite number of used SXS out there that are within the means of a normal person (under 3k). All the newer fine SXS are out of reach including the vast majority of AYA's and others. The American legacy of doubles are not these over-the-top pieces designed for the european aristocracy and gentry. The American legacy is very simple durable well made guns like the older Ithaca models. But the problem is that no American manufacturer is able to produce (in the US) even a field/sporter grade double of decent quality and hand fitting for under 3-4k. In that sense the legacy is dead...outside of those few opportunities on used guns in fair condition with a lot of field marks and wear. Even a used SKB/Ithaca made in Japan is at least 2k in good condition. The fact that a company like Ruger is unable to even keep the red label line going (nevemind the gold label) is all you need to know. I would like to see an American manufacturer come out with a SXS that is superior to the Huglu/CZ stuff, looks simple but elegant, and is available at or under $1,500....but I know better.
I inherited an old bargain basement Knickerbocker SxS from my Grandfather... I have shot it some but 2.5 inch chambers are a concern. I can appreciate the Older American made guns and would love to find a Fox Sterlingworth or the likes but I guess I have a Turkish budget with four of the CZs. Three Bobwhites , one of each and a CZ Canvasback Gold 20 bought used. They fill a nice spot for under $2,400 for all four.
2:56......Exactly on all points. But Griffon & Howe are top notch makers and command a very steep price. If you want to celebrate double guns,......look to this country and the weapons made 80 to 90 years ago.
A.H. Fox, Parker, L.C. Smith, Ithaca, LeFever, and Browning are some of the best examples of the gunsmithing trade. High-end Europeans were just more ornate and convoluted than our own guns. They didn't shoot any better. Another thing is buying a part of shotgunning history. If you want to go the route of high-end........look no further than Browning, Winchester, and Parker.
The way it fits in the hands, .........no truer words were ever spoken.
AYA makes a VERY nice gun. They are expensive.
A good used American example of the breed will cost you much less, but it will be a used gun. And be about 80 to 90 years old. Good examples shoot as well as a new AYA. They just don't look new.
If you don't care what your firearm looks like, .......try one of the heirloom shotguns from our own country's past.
5:32.......Beautiful piece of art? I like my art to flow from form to function. 1935 Fox Sterlingworth in 16 gauge, and Ithaca NID 1937 also 16 bore. No extra engraving, but solid engineering and hand fitted metal work and checkering. They may look plain, but they do shoot well. For $1700 for the pair, I dare you to find something so good and so cheap!
We hunters need to save our money for other things like: shells, new boots, clothing, bills, food, gas to get to our shooting grounds, ....the list goes on and on.
When you go to a camp,.........you went there to hunt Grouse. You are among other Grouse hunters. You all have the same experiences in the field. Or have had. It is a fraternity or sorority.
It is almost the same as when my Air Force brothers get together.
You have to pass it on, or it will be lost in these times of ours.
First gun was a side by side
Are you telling me there are other kinds of shotgun?
Belgium has the best gun makers.. liege, FN, browning....
An advertisement, really?
I have found that SxS is not the best for hunting, Pointablilty is not as good as other guns, o/u present a better point factor or even semi auto light weight guns are more user friendly. People need to get over it's a classic, it's not, it's old and there are so much better now to use.beretta 687, Browning belgians. Sxs need to have chambers lengthen, chokes put in. forcing cones lengthen. You can put a small fortune in a little gun and still probably couldn't hit with it. Want to shoot action cowboy get a sxs, want to rob a train get a sxs. Go to the skeet field if you can't shoot straight with it you don't need to be using it.