28 Gauge Barrels for a Superposed

[Jut]

I have a 20 gauge Superposed Lightning with an extra set of 410 barrels. My dad owned it since the 70s, but when he bought it, it was just the two barrel sets and a hardcase. He had the barrels sent to Browning, and they built him a new action and stock. It's a beautiful shotgun and I make it a point to take out both barrel sets each year to bird hunt. What bothers me is that every time I look in the case, there's an empty space. You see, this shotgun started out as a three barrel set, but the original owner had the gun stolen with the 28 gauge barrels. That's why my dad only got the two barrel sets without an action.

I want to complete the set. Would it be possible to find 28 gauge barrels and have them fitted? What do you think my chances are of even finding the barrels? Would any Superposed 28 gauge barrel set fit or would I need ones specifically from a 20 gauge Lightning?

 

[FLHTCUI]

Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained.
Having said that custom is the only way to go in my tainted opinion.
Try Arts' Gun Shop in the USA for some solid advice.
Rob

 

[Falconflyer]

You will need barrels for a 20 gauge frame since it's smaller than the 12 guage frame and then they would need to be fitted by someone who knows what theyre doing. As for being a Lightning or not I'm not certain if there is any difference in the barrel sets. Where to find a set is the big question!

 

[canvasback]

Art's for advice is a good suggestion.

Don't imagine this will be anything other than a money pit. That doesn't mean don't do it, just be aware. There are two different frame sizes. One, the baby frame is for 28 gauge and .410. You don't want barrels for that frame. Can't help you on the Lighting question but I highly doubt it has to be a Lightning barrel.

 

[struff55]

Anything is possible there are a few shops that good make it happen if you wish to spend 3000-6000$

 

[Ol' Flinter]

Simmons Gun Specialties in the USA used to make extra barrel sets for Kreighoffs and Superposed for 4-gauge skeet shooters. Also, it was not uncommon in the 60s and 70s for skeet shooters to have a pair of 28 gauge chamber-only inserts for shooting their 28 ga competitions with the 20 ga gun. The plastic skirt on the 28 ga shells sealed the barrel well enough to get good muzzle velocity with target loads. The bore difference is only .615 - .550/2= .065/2 = .033 or 1/32".

 

[Jut]

Thanks for all the suggestions. I tried Art's a while ago but never heard back. I guess I need to try again. I realize this will likely be a money pit.