I am the "buyer."
I enjoy hunting with SxS's, and prefer they look attractive. One can purchase a vaiety of new SxS's in the $800 to $2,000 range -- or choose a "remanufactured" American double from the early 20th century at a similar price. I think of it as though I'm purchasing a "new SxS" from a local hardware store in 1910, albeit at an inflation adjusted price.
I'd rather hunt with a redone American SxS than a new Brittany or HUGLU. Those imports may function fine, be a good value,and suit other's needs, but they don't make me smile.
Last year, from this board, I bought a nice Lefever GE 12 that had been very well redone by Buck Hamlin for $1,800, and am very pleased with it. It went to South Dakota with me this fall, and we did well together; also nearby in Illinois, for a total of 50+ pheasants this year. I think that is pretty good for a 1917 gun!
In the truest sense, these are not collector's items, but they are fun to own and shoot. Even though redone, I still feel a pride of ownership, and my hunting partners ogle accordingly. If I were ever fortunate enough to find a new-in-the-box Sterlingworth or Elsie, I'd probably be hesitant to actually hunt with it. It WOULD belong in a collection in someone ELSE's safe.
Priced in the $1,500 to $2,200 range, these redone old classics seem to meet my needs. I was hoping to find out if these prices matched other's expectations, or if I'm paying too high a price. I don't look at these oldies as investments, but I don't want to be too darn foolish.
Anyhow, thanks for the input.
JERRY
