Phil,
I read a quote recently about Parker Shotguns that is 100% applicable to drillings as well. "Be careful what you buy because they are extremely common...it is the excellent condition that is rare".
When I think of German Drillings I think they are very comparable to American Parker Shotguns of the same generation. Everybody's dad and grandad in America had a Parker bouncing around in the back of a pickup truck or rusting away in a closet, basement or woodshed. Drillings had a similar life history back in their native homeland in Europe.
What makes a drilling valuable (generically speaking, there are exceptions) is its shootability and overall condition. There is an unending supply of prolifically engraved, amazing German Hammer drillings with 20% original finish to be had for $800-$1500 each. (short chambered and loaded with an obscure, extinct cartridge naturally). Most of these guns also have the feature of a broken/cracked horn trigger guard, under lever or butt plate as well.
My point is this: Remember to be anal retentive as you decide if you're going to enjoy this drilling and if you're getting a good value. There are tons of them out there and most of them aren't worth very much at all.
