The case coloring doesn't look correct to me. The action looks like it may have been exposed to very high heat during the case coloring process. Maybe there is nothing wrong with it but actions will warp if the heat is too high and they are not properly blocked.
I recommend only buying this rifle on a contingency based on a passing inspection by JJ Perodeau.
Offer to pay for the inspection and shipping to JJ.
Fully agree with this assessment. I would like to see more-detailed photos (in-focus this time) and absolutely agree with the recommendation for an inspection by JJ. Factor that cost, and the potential cost of a re-jointing and other repairs into the price.
Obviously it is not "collector-grade" but I suspect that you already know that and want something to actually shoot. On my machine, I can't zoom into the photos enough to see details but here is what I can see from looking through the photos and the description:
1. Heavily buffed during the "restoration" process. Markings appear weak or non-existent but it could be due to the poor photos. Case coloring, as Mark noted is somewhat suspicious. Certainly they are "vivid" as the seller states, but what is that hiding?
2. DU take-down case will be helpful in transporting to/from the range but adds no value to the rifle itself.
3. Forearm (photo #5) is a serial numbered item, but I see none on the metal. Again, was this buffed out?
4. I'm suspicious of the shiny marks on the barrel flats (photo #6) but hard to tell from the photo whether that's reflection or symptom of a problem. Proof marks look weak, but again, could just be photo quality.
5. I have concerns about the serial number on the water table (photo #7). Those numbers appear to be haphazardly applied, not the work one would expect of Jeffery. In addition the serial number should appear in front of the LEFT firing pin, whereas this one is in front of the RIGHT firing pin. Oh, and it's facing the wrong direction (should be stamped to read from breech-face to the hinge) whereas this one is the opposite.
6. Speaking of the breech-face (again, photo #7) take a hard look at the metal surrounding the firing-pin bushings. Despite the poorly focused photo, I see damage to the right side and possibly to the left. I've heard this referred to as "flame cutting" caused by the old cordite ammunition. Not a deal-breaker in itself, but it certainly bears inspection by someone who possesses the requisite expertise to render a valid opinion.
7. Sides of the receiver (photo #9) are slick. Most of the Jefferys that I've seen have some engraving (at least minimal bead border engraving). The exception is their No. 10 double rifle which is described in my copy of the 1910-11 catalog as "
absolutely without any engraving, the entire cost of manufacture being devoted to the obtaining of a thoroughly serviceable rifle at a minimum cost." But even those rifles without engraving still have the "WJ Jeffery & Co" logo stamped on the sides of the receiver. This rifle lacks that, again leading me to question whether it was removed by a heavy hand at the buffing wheel.
8. Barrel markings (photo #14) look weak, buffed out. Or at least they appear so on my machine.
9. And what's up with that stock? Did the seller coat it with oil prior to the photos or did the "restoration" involve dipping the stock into a vat of varnish?
10. Seller states that "Action is tight." Maybe it is, but how did he determine that? Did he use actual gauges, or cigarette paper as an expedient, or did he just give the gun a vigorous shake and decide it's all good? Definitely want someone to check that out if you decide to purchase.
So in my decidedly non-expert opinion, what you have here is a poorly restored potential shooter-grade Jeffery with several issues at a low but not necessarily bargain price. I would suggest comparing the photos in this ad to other Jeffery doubles currently listed on the same website and see what you think. It might be a good idea to call JJ and ask him whether he knows this rifle.
You're a big boy and have to make your own decisions based on your personal desires and finances. But if you were one of my friends, my advice would be to save your money, look around some more, and purchase a rifle for which you need make no excuses.
