Hi MOW, good advise from all the above folks, well worth following
I'll just add my 2 worth, for what it's worth. It seems like you've done your homework and are more than likely aware of issues like barrel wall thickness etc. So I guess that can be a moot subject unless you have any questions regarding general inspection of doubleguns.
What I'd like to bring up is the 2 3/4" chambers you want. My question is why? There is no upland game bird that can't be killed with a properly loaded 2 1/2" shell. I know from first hand experience on wild birds. 2 1/2" loads do work and 1 oz or 1 1/16oz will do the trick. There are plenty of good 2 1/2" loads out there that are not anymore expensive than good quality 2 3/4".
Another point is, I trust if you do get a Brit gun with 2 3/4" chambers you won't be shooting any modern American loads in it. Brit guns are proofed to a different standard. Our ammo is generally high pressure compared to Brit standards. The pressures for Brit guns proofed to 3 1/4 Tons PSI (2 3/4") is 9600psi our 2 3/4" ammo runs about 11,000psi or more. If you shoot our ammo in a Brit gun you run some risks of damage to the stock as well as the action and perhaps the bbls if they are thin.
Your not really going to gain anything by getting a Brit gun with 2 3/4" chambers. I'd suggest that you stick with 2 1/2" in a gun that is excellent condition and with proper loads won't fail you on any game that flys.
I also agree with Ham, I'd stay away from auctions and stick with good reliable dealers.
I wish you the best of luck in your search, remember, looking is half the fun!
Greg
