Specs: Darne, sn4000, Year c1930, 12 Gauge, 6lbs. 3oz., Chokes IC/M, LOP 14 5/8", DAH 2 3/8", DAC 1 5/8"
The Darne shotgun was created in France in 1897 with a very different action referred to as a “SLIDING BREECH” shotgun. The barrels do not pivot on a hinge pin and the action is released by lifting the top opening lever, referred to as the “key”, and in one motion sliding the moving part of the action rearward, ejecting the fired shell(s), allowing the user to quickly feed fresh ammunition into the empty chambers and then briskly shove the key forward, sliding the action into battery and strongly locking the action into ready to fire mode. It is a very cool and solid design, with few moving parts and really no areas to wear or “shoot loose”. The action was so well designed initially that it has remained unchanged for the past 127 years and is still being built today. The guns came in several series and grades, ie the Halifax, R Series, and the V Series (the top of the line in the Darne line up). The R Grades run from R11(lowest grade) to R17 (elaborate full coverage engraving and luxuriously figured French walnut). This Darne model R13 exhibits a moderate amount of hand cut floral and border engraving, and nicely figured fiddleback French walnut. Essentially an ultra-light 12-gauge gun at 6lbs. 3oz. with its 27.5” lightweight barrels (choked IC/M) and 14 5/8” length of pull, you won’t find a more dynamic upland gun. The metal finishes are all factory original and strong. The wood has had a quality restoration sometime in the past and remains in excellent condition. Study the photos and you will see several unique and interesting characteristics that create the the French made Darne shotgun, ie the sliding breech action, the swamped rib, one piece stock butt to forend tip, sweeping Prince of Wales grip, and sling swivels that are common on European guns. Don’t dismiss the sling swivels if you hunt in the open terrain of the West and/or handle dogs in any field. When there are no trees to lean your gun against and you need two hands, the gun ends up on the ground with dog footprints all over it along with the scratches and dings. A lightweight sling is a very useful accessory when you give the topic full consideration. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to own and shoot a different shotgun, one that disassembles easily, has few moving parts, is easy to maintain, light as a feather, and all your gun buddies will be “WOWED” by. You can see the specifications below. This gun is has 2 ½” chambers and we have lots of 2 ½” ammunition and it is readily available on line at RSTshells. These barrels are VERY ROBUST at the breech and the chambers can be altered to 2 ¾” with 1 ½” forcing cones within a week of purchase for an added cost of $400. You can still order a Darne R13 shotgun, starting at over $10,000 and a wait of at least a year for delivery. Or…you can buy this Darne for a fraction of that price and have the gun in time for your upcoming hunt! Thank you for considering this unusual but useful piece for your investment and shooting pleasure.
Barrels: 27 3/8"
Chokes: .011/.022 IC/M
Bores: excellent
Bore Diameter: .725/.723
Wall Thickness: .027/.030
% Blue: 98% factory
Chambers: 2 1/2"
Ribs: swamped rib
Sights: Front silver
Action: sliding breach
Extractors
Receiver: 97% French Grey
Screws: excellent
Engraving: hand engraved floral and borders
Trigger: double (heavy)
Trigger Guard: engraved 10% blue
Stock: Prince of Wales pistol grip/splinter
LOP: 14 5/8"
LOP To End Of Wood: 13 5/8"
DAH: 2 3/8"
DAC: 1 5/8"
Cast: H 1/4" off, T 3/8" off
Checkering: excellent
Butt: Pachmayr Old English pad
INQUIRIES
There is a 30 day mechanical warranty on long guns. If it is a “VFI Certified” gun there is a 90 day mechanical warranty. Call or email us for more details or questions. Thanks!
