Going to see a Browning BSS 12 - value?

[dreamwaters]

I've come across a nice sounding shotgun that might fit my upland needs for this fall. I'ts a Browning BSS 12 gauge, 26" IC/M fixed, single selective trigger. I don't yet know the stock configuration (sporting or pistol) or anything else about it. From looking around I see that the sidelock ones are worth more, and that the smaller gauges (20 or smaller) are more sought after. If anyone has any experience with these guns in terms of what Imight expect to pay and what features to look for or look out for that would be great. No set asking price, so I may be able to get a good deal. I plan to hunt with it, but I'd also like to know what kind of value it has in case I don't like the way it shoots and want to make a few bucks on it (or at least not lose much!).
Thanks!
-DW

 

[Bowie]

These are excellent shotguns, and one of the best values in the SxS market. A 12 gauge goes for less than a 20. The 12 gauge gun IMHO should probably bring in the range of $700-850.

 

[Beaver Skin]

I recently sold a mint single trigger 12 for $1250. Still wondering if it was the right thing to do???

 

[dreamwaters]

Dammit

Thanks for the replies - I finally cleared my schedule for the long drive out to check it out tonight - called first to be sure - SOLD for 650$. I didn't have the heart to tell the old fella that he might have gotten more for it, although it doesn't sound like it was in mint conditions so perhaps 650$ was an approximately fair price. Oh well - money talks! Maybe next time...
-DW

 

[beretta boy]

If you happen across another ... the standard 12's are generally in the
$ 750 - $ 1000 range ... with exceptional condition/box/manual being worth a little more. The 26" bbls. are way too common the 28'' and 30" are worth a little more. In 20 ga, $ 1250 to 1500 for a 26-incher, and maybe $ 1400 - $1750 for a 28" . The earliest versions had a non-selective (silver coloured)
single trigger, the later versions a gold-coloured selective trigger. The straight stocked 28" 20 gauge oil-finished versions (B-SS Sporters) are somewhat scarce ... and can bring $ 1800 - $ 2200 or more if in very good condition, and the B-SS sidelocks possibly double that.

Good, strong well-made little doubles. (A lot of the 20 gauge guns were at one time converted to double rifles !)

When you do run across one, be prepared to move quickly ... they don't last on the market very long !

 

[dreamwaters]

Thanks BB - I sure learned THAT lesson - barely had time to get in the car before it was sold...
-DW

 

[Beaver Skin]

I'll likely have a 12 ga with 30 inch barrels coming up for sale after the board maintenance. Its in excellent condition - Stay tuned