^Lot 2268 SUPER RARE DAVID KIRKWOOD DOUBLE PARADOX GUN "IN

THE WHITE". Cal. 12 Ga. 2-3/4". S# NSN. It is surmised that David Kirkwood is the "American gunmaker" that made the first test barrels for G.V. Fosbery during his development of the "Paradox". Kirkwood Paradox guns are almost indistinguishable from those of Fosbery and were reported to be very effective. This particular Paradox is one of a number of guns that were found unfinished in the Kirkwood workshop when it closed in the 1960's. It has 30" barrels that appear to be damascus although they are mostly covered with black varnish. Broad flat rib is fitted with three folding leaf rear sight and silver front bead. A regulating wedge still protrudes from muzzles. Sidelock action features Kirkwood's sliding third fastener and Purdey under bolts. Action body is rounded and lockplates are dipped in early style. No numbers, marks or patents are present. Sunburst horn pistol grip buttstock is made of intricately figured European walnut and measures 14-3/8" over hand checkered hard rubber buttplate. Stock features Kirkwood's long fluted comb and drop points. Stocks have not been checkered. Splinter forend has nearly unfinished wood and has tension release. MEASUREMENTS: BBLS: Bore Diameter: L .732. R .731. Restriction: L about .037 (full). R about .039 (full). Wall thickness: L .040. R .038. STOCK: DAH: 3-1/16". DAC: 1-3/4". CAST: neutral. LOP: 14-3/8". WEIGHT: 8 lb. 10 oz. CONDITION: "as found" unfinished. Metal show initial striking and polish. Barrels still needing a lot of work. Stock is completely shaped, has oil finish; needs checkering. Forend wood still rough. Bores are bright and shiny without noted problems. Action is tight. Safety button is missing. Mechanically fine. PROVENANCE: From the Private Collection of Berrien Moore III. (01-28464/MGM). ANTIQUE. $2,000-4,000.