I've owned three V. Bernardellis: a 20 gauge Gamecock (which I've owned since 1977 and which was my only shotgun for about 10 years), a 12 gauge Italia hammer gun and a 20 gauge Italia Extra hammer gun. I still own the two 20 gauge guns, but the 12 went down the road when I purchased a Charles Moore 12 gauge hammer gun and decided I didn't need both.
Except for one small issue with the Italia Extra (the thumb piece on the hammers was pierced and the tip broke off - I had both hammers welded up and have put a couple of flats through it since then with no further issues), I've had no problems with any of the guns. I've looked at several of the side-plated boxlocks and even at one of the sidelocks, but never had the funds and the opportunity meet simultaneously.
The V. Bernardellis were good, solid guns and seem to be a lot of gun for the price point in the used market. I'd not discourage the purchase you're contemplating.
And if you do buy it, how about posting a few photos?
