Auguste Francotte! Any thoughts?

[norfolk shooter]

Hello once again to you all!

I was just wondering (as one does on a Sunday evening!) if anybody had any experience with bolt action rifles from the above maker?? Also what is the general thought of the quality? Could it be likened to any of the London gun makers? Or is it just average??

Many thanks in advance

 

[AkMike]

AF has the rep as a best quality builder in DR's. I'd assume they would carry this thru for the single barrels also.

 

[Red Leg]

Mike is correct. They were a top shelf double builder - far more guns than rifles - but that was true of everyone else. Abercrombie and Fitch imported them into the US between the wars. Basic box locks start around $1500 and well made "best" side lock will push $30k and beyond. Their best bolt action rifles were built on the Brevex mauser action. It is really hard to find one of these in good shape for under $10k.

 

[CTDolan]

Belgian maker, capable of best quality, as mentioned above.

 

[norfolk shooter]

I have found one at potentially a good price in 375!! its a bolt action i just need to find the time to go have a look at the thing

 

[CTDolan]

If it's from Auguste Francotte, it'll be a good one. Jump on the opportunity, as it'll likely go quick (especially in 375).

 

[norfolk shooter]

its in a sealed bid auction. Im lucky I have a man on the inside

 

[spike.t]

what condition did the mole say its in? as its hard to tell from the photo.......

 

[norfolk shooter]

Spike keep the location to yourself! The arms on route to London at the moment when they get back to Norfolk Im going to have a look at it and have a chat with the mole.

 

[spike.t]

not a word hope its a good one

 

[norfolk shooter]

So do I my Pedigree Chum so do I. Its now I think bolt action over double!!!! It could be a good investment?!

 

[spike.t]

well once you get the .375 it really has to be a .470 or .500 dbl next

 

[norfolk shooter]

I dont think the police in england will see it that way

 

[norfolk shooter]

Well I have been and had a look at the rifle in question. I must say its a good one the case colour has gone from the trigger guard and mag hinge plate but it has some nice engraving on it (I'm sure that could be sorted). It all seems to be in good order so I have left a bid and all being well by 1000hrs GMT on Thursday the 2nd July 2015 I shall know if I have it.

 

[spike.t]

fingers crossed !

 

[Norwegian Moose]

Guys, I have a Auguste Francotte rifle for sale, a bespoke 30.06 with your Mauser lock, rich engravings, some gold inlaid, premium stock. It's been in Africa several times in the '90s and is in good condition. Could this be of interest?

 

[norfolk shooter]

Well I got the rifle and Alison likes it!! Some pics as I know a few of you want to see it

I guess this means I need to joint the big bore addiction grp

 

[spike.t]

excellent!! congrats on getting it, looks very nice

 

[Pondoro]

Very nice....has some nice touches......buy and go shoot it..!

 

[norfolk shooter]

Got some 300grn solids just need to find the time