Hi Guys

I have been chasing this gun for several years - I gather it has been on this forum before but cannot find the thread

I bought it as a smooth bored Paradox from Mick Shepherd after it had been held by the police after an attempt by the police to link him with organised crime

After a long haggle I collected it and started checking details from the Paradox book by David J Baker & Roger E Lake, it was soon apparent it was not a Paradox

There was only one? 12b? paradox with damascus barrels

The top strap is not extended like all Paradoxes

The serial number (by guess and barrel inscription of "winner of 1883 trials", and the book) is about 5 years too early for a Paradox

Was it a cut down shotgun? - the foresight (see pic) looks original, and the inscription "Charge 10 drams, case 3 3/4 inches" (pic) is above normal shotgun loads

A telephone call to Holland & Holland giving the serial No. reulted in a pleasant surprise!
They have the original order book from 1884 and half an hour later I had a scan in my hands (pic)
Now that is what I call service!!
They also offered a free originality and safety check which I took up last week

Their only comment was that the Nitro Proof was not original and unnecessary!!

Weight is 14 lbs 3 oz and bore at .825 which compares well with the Nitro Proof at .824

If I wished to shoot it what size round ball should I use - patched/wadding? - Daryl? - anyone?

Nice fences, as always

Plain belly

Charge 10 drams, case 3 3/4 inches

"Winner of all the Field Rife Trials 1883" + clear Damascus

Nice ivory support for the foresight

Bores are very clean but need a scrub!

Nitro Proof

Top strap on Paradox is much longer

Sold to Mr Fountaine - 8 bore ball gun 26 1/16" barrels etc

I was disappointed at first it was not a Paradox but on reflection an original H&H is OK!

Comments please

TH44