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Joined: May 2005
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SXS 40 Offline OP
Sidelock
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Sidelock

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How do you tell the first version from the second version Thumbhole Lever type opener?

Thanks


HWK
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Sidelock
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I must say that I have only handled one first version of a "Purdey thumb leaver opener" Bar in wood. The difference from the later second version was it had a swamped rib and non rebounding locks. But knowing Purdey in the early days they would build what ever you wanted. Though you could say with some certainty rebounding locks where fitted to the second version. It is possible the non rebounding locks could be replaced at some future date by Purdey so may be the serial number of the gun would be of more help.

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Sidelock
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The first version has a bar attached to the "thumb piece" that extends along the bottom of the action for a couple inches.

https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/19797/lot/114/


The second version lacks this extension.

https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/22750/lot/81/?category=list


“I left long before daylight, alone but not lonely.”~Gordon Macquarrie
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Sidelock
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I owned a 2nd pattern thumbhole Purdey action hammer gun. I liked it much more in term of elegance as compared to the 1st pattern thumbhole. Really elegant action that I found not to be as cumbersome to operate as some people seem to find them.

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I actually saw one at Mid South guns yesterday. Very early Purdey push forward.


Mike Proctor
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There is a first pattern thumb hole For sale at Watson brothers in London. You can do it on their website under the used tab. I believe the first pattern is much more rare than the second pattern and to my eye looks a little bit clunky. The second pattern is actually quite ergonomic Once you get used to it.


Owen
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SXS 40 Offline OP
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Sidelock

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Thank you all for your reply's. Flintfans answer was perfect.


HWK
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This is my second pattern that at the time was a wreck of a gun I fell in love with as a young man in the 1960's, over three years work and more cash than I care to remember for its restoration and in continuous use since. It was once owned by the owner of the wining horse of the 1867 derby "Hermit" at odds of 1000/15, this gun is number one of a set of four he must have had more cash than he would know what to do with.
The bar in wood design was said by Richard Beaumont to be the most elegant of guns ever designed and built by Purdey, and if you would like one we can build you one. I will also say it is one of a very few number of guns that you can walk on to the field and most will know its maker is.



The only lessons in my life I truly did learn from where the ones I paid for!
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damascus, that is surely a magnificent looking gun.


David


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Damascus, a lovely looking gun and testament to a lot of hard work

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