Make: Frank E. Malin & Sons

Model: Tudor Rose, matched pair.

Serial Number: 99893 (1), 99894 (2)

Year of Manufacture: 1982

Gauge: 12 Gauge, 2 3/4" Shells

Action Type: Sidelock Hammerless Double Shotguns with Single Non-Selective Mechanical Triggers and Selective Ejectors

Barrel Length: 26 1/2"

Choke: Left- Improved Modified, Right- Modified, both fixed.

Sights / Optics: Both guns have a large white bead at the front of their rib and a smaller metal mid-bead.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece checkered walnut with beavertail forends, straight grips, straight combs, checkered bare butts, and initial plates in the belly engraved with gothic "VS". The bottom-front of the forends have inlaid gold "1" and "2", respectively. The stocks have little in the way of handling wear with some scattered minor marks. Number 1 has a thin, short crack at the right-front and another at the right-rear of the forend. Number 2 has a longer thin crack at the left-front of the forend. The checkering is well defined. The LOP measures 14 1/4" from the front of the trigger to the back of the butt. Drop at comb is approximately 1 5/8", drop at heel 2 1/8". Measurements are consistent across both guns. Overall, the stocks are in about Very Good condition.

Type of Finish: Blue and Case Color

Finish Originality: Original, numbers match.

Bore Condition: All bores are bright with no erosion. In this writer's opinion, the bores rate 10/10.

Overall Condition: 1- This shotgun retains about 99% of its metal finish. There is no notable wear or damage, only light handling marks. The screw heads range from sharp to lightly tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun is in Fine condition.

2- This shotgun retains about 96% of its metal finish. The left barrel has a few light scratches toward the muzzle-end. There is minor wear on the left lock from the lock-screw. Otherwise, there are only light handling marks. The screw heads range from sharp to lightly tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun is in about Good condition (see Mechanics).

Mechanics: 1- The actions function correctly. 2- The left lock does not fire when the trigger is pressed. Otherwise, the actions function correctly. We have not fired these shotguns. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: These shotguns come in an english-fit luggage case fit for both guns, the included snap-caps, oiler, and with accessory compartments. A key for the case is included.

Our Assessment: This pair of Best Guns made by Frank E. Malin and Sons in Canada. Marked 1 and 2, the guns are identical with consecutive serial numbers, a relic of an earlier and more civilized era. There was a time when an English gentleman would have a Loader who, while in the field or on the range, would unload and load the gentleman's gun. With a matched pair, the fired gun could be handed off in exchange for the freshly loaded gun, and with identical configurations, they would obviously feel and function the same.

Frank Malin was an English gunmaker who was able to entice a number of other gunmakers to move to Canada and start a new firm. Their goal was to make Best Guns for the Canadian and American markets that were equal in quality to British guns, at a more enticing price. As is evident in this lot, they were successful in their efforts. Unfortunately, the project fell apart. There were rumors that Spanish parts were being re-marked with British proofs, the rumors drove down demand, and eventually the firm was closed with a number of outstanding deposits on guns that were never delivered.

This handsome pair has proper Birmingham proofs, beautiful rose and scroll engraving from Peter Cook, and will make a wonderful addition to any sportsman's collection. Please see our photos and good luck!