Make: Leopold Saemann, Gorlitz Germany

Model: Drilling

Serial Number: 1892

Year of Manufacture: Circa, Early 1900s to 1912

Caliber: 16Ga / 9.3x72mmR

Action Type: Under Lever Back-Action Break Action Over/Under Three Barrel Combo Gun with Extractor & double trigger.

Markings: The top of the barrels are marked, “LEOPOLD SAEMANN / GORLITZ” with Kruppsche rollmarks. The underside of the rifle barrel has several nitro and other proofs with the serial number, “1892”. The barrel flats are marked with various proofs and the circled 16ga caliber markings. The extractor is marked, “49”. The frame is marked with proofs and the serial number in the water table. The locking block is matched to the frame. There is ornate engraving throughout depicting various animals.

Barrel Length: 27 3/8”

Choke: Both Fixed Modified

Sights/Optics: The front sight is a small blade post set atop the rib. There is a flip-up U-notch that is actuated by a switch on the tang.

Stock Configuration and Condition: The stock is a two piece checkered wood set with a pull tab splinter forend, Prince of Wales style wrist, cheekpiece, cartridge holder in the belly, and a checkered plastic Parker buttplate. There are light handling marks throughout. The checkering is sharp. There are no chips or cracks but there are some fitment gaps. The LOP is 13 ¾”. Overall, the stocks rate in Fine Plus condition. The stock set is a fitted replacement.

Type of Finish: Blued, Case Color

Finish Originality: Refinished

Bore Condition: The shotgun bores are bright. There are scattered light scratch lines throughout. The bottom rifle barrel is gray with strong rifling. There is light erosion in the barrel. Overall in this writer’s opinion the bores rate 9/10 overall.

Overall Condition: This combination gun retains about 90% of its metal finish. The case color on the frame has mostly faded. There is light patina and wear marks throughout. There are refinished over small pricks of pitting in the action and under the forend. The screw heads are lightly tooled. All of the markings are mostly clear. Overall, this combination gun rates in Very Good condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The lock up is tight with no play. We have not fired this shotgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your standards.

Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: None.

Our Assessment: This Leopold Saemann Drilling is a fine example of German gunsmithing from the early 20th century, blending elegance and functionality into a versatile three-barrel combination gun. Chambered in 16 gauge over 9.3x72R, it was likely used for European game hunting, where the ability to transition seamlessly from birdshot to a potent rifle cartridge made it an ideal companion in the field. Built in Görlitz, Germany, and marked with Krupp steel rollmarks, this drilling showcases Leopold Saemann’s attention to detail through its fine engraving, nitro proof marks, and robust back-action frame with underlever operation. The tang-mounted sight flip and double triggers reflect the classic layout favored by experienced hunters of the era. This example is in Very Good overall condition, retaining approximately 90% of its metal finish. The case coloring on the receiver has faded but still reveals fine engraving with woodland game motifs. The shotgun bores are bright with minor scratch lines, while the rifle bore is gray with strong rifling and only light erosion, collectively rating 9/10 in this writer’s opinion. The stock is a fitted replacement with a sharp checkered wrist, cheekpiece, and cartridge trap in the belly—well-executed and showing light handling marks without cracks or chips. The action locks up tight with no play, and all mechanical functions are sound. The flip-up rear sight engages crisply, and the forend latch and double triggers are secure and smooth.

For collectors of fine European sporting arms or those drawn to practical elegance, this Saemann Drilling is a superb find. Its blend of craftsmanship, historical relevance, and field versatility make it equally desirable as a display piece or functional hunting firearm. The 9.3x72R cartridge is a classic German round, well-suited for deer or boar, while the 16 gauge barrels provide ample upland capability. With its tight lockup, sharp bores, and graceful lines, this drilling captures the essence of early 20th-century German gunmaking and remains a testament to the enduring appeal of the multi-barrel sporting rifle.