Make: J.P. Sauer & Sohn

Model: Sidelock

Serial Number: 94872

Year of Manufacture: 1901-1902, C&R

Gauge: 12 GA, 2 3/4” Shells

Action Type: Top Lever Opening Sidelock Double Barreled Shotgun with Extractors

Markings: The top of each barrel is marked “J.P. SAUER & SOHN, SUHL”. The left barrel at the chamber is marked “FLUSE-STAHL-”. The right barrel at the chamber is marked “KRUPP-ESSEN.”. The bottom of the left barrel is marked “94872 / 206 U” with a crowned “S” proof, two other proofs, and “NICHT FUR KUGEL”. There is a proof on the bottom of the right barrel. The bottom of each barrel flat is marked with several series of proofs. The forend iron is marked “872”. Both lock plates are marked “J.P. SAUER & SOHN, SUHL”. The water table is marked “94872” with two proofs. The bottom tang is marked “94872”. The left side of the barrel lug is marked “94872”.

Barrel Length: 30”

Choke: Left: Full, Right: Modified, both fixed.

Sights / Optics: This shotgun has a bead fixed to the front of the rib. The top of the rib has wavy serrations for glare reduction.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece checkered walnut with a round bottom semi-pistol grip, straight comb with cheek piece, and checkered composite buttplate. There are light handling marks throughout with a few scrapes on the left side of the grip and right side of the buttstock. The LOP measures 14 1/8" and 13 1/4″ from the fronts of the triggers to the back of the buttplate. The plate has some worm holes in the heel and nicks along the edges. Overall, the stocks are in Fine condition.

Type of Finish: Blued & Coin

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bores are mostly bright. There is some minor erosion. There are a few dents on the barrel that has slightly warped the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bores rates 5/10 given the erosion and dents. 

Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 40% of its metal finish. The barrel has mottled oxidation throughout. There are a series of dents along the sides of the barrel. There is discoloration in the receiver’s coin finish, but no notable damage. The screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun is in Very Good condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly including extractors. The barrels lock solidly to the frame. The safety engages automatically upon opening. The cocking indicators are small circles with a single line across them visible on each lockplate. We have not fired this shotgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.

Our Assessment: The Sauer & Sohn firm was first founded in 1751 in Suhl, Germany and they are the oldest firearms manufacturer still active in Germany. While they are known today for their Sig-Sauer semi-automatic pistols made in collaboration with Swiss arms AG, they were once well known for their fine European made rifles, shotguns and drillings. This shotgun has strong overall mechanics and retains a good amount of its original finish. This is a great example of their work and will make a fine addition to any collection.