Nothing worth owning is undervalued in the world of quality sxs's. There's always the odd great deal to be stumbled upon by blind luck, but is so rare as to be hardly worth mention.
He needs to figure out what he likes, what he can afford, and what he's going to do with it after he buys. There are so many pitfalls in this scenario that it's almost impossible to give any guidance to someone like him. So many little details and nuances about all of these guns that make or break them.
The dealers have so many tentacles that reach into all the markets it has become a rat race to the hole trying to find anything worth buying at a reasonable price. He's about to learn some expensive lessons. Dealers and individuals alike will lie with a straight face if they see a mullet with money.
My only suggestion is to buy the highest condition he can afford, regardless of what it is. But if he's going to go hunt with it and put hickies on it, be prepared for the consequences.
But to your question, perhaps the 12 ga. pre-1913 L C Smiths such as a 2E or 3E that has not been f*cked with.
JR
Last edited by John Roberts; 05/20/16 10:50 AM.