*SOLD* Fortuna-Suhl German Drilling 16ga/7x57R *DESIRABLE GERMAN COMBINATION GUN*

Bryant Ridge's Analysis:

Drilling is the German word for triplet. The development of breech-loading center-fire guns made it possible and practical to make guns with three barrels. Although Drillings were made in several countries, they are and have been most popular in Germany and Austria. Overlapping hunting seasons provide hunters and foresters with a versatile gun for hunting a wide variety of game animals with a single firearm.
 
Hammerless German Drilling combination guns are masterful expressions of traditional European gunmaking, valued for their versatility, precision engineering, and refined aesthetics. These three-barreled firearms—typically comprising two side-by-side shotgun barrels over a single rifled barrel—offer hunters a unique ability to seamlessly switch between ammunition types depending on game encountered in the field. The hammerless design, a significant innovation over earlier external-hammer models, conceals the firing mechanism within the action, resulting in a streamlined, snag-free profile that is quicker to deploy and inherently safer. These guns often employ tang-mounted selectors or sliding switches disguised as safeties, enabling the shooter to choose between shotgun or rifle barrels with ease. The internal cocking mechanisms are typically engaged when the action is opened or manually activated, while features like set triggers, automatic flip-up rifle sights, and Greener crossbolt locks reflect the engineering sophistication behind these firearms.
 
The Fortuna-Suhl brand, manufactured in the famed gunmaking town of Suhl, Germany, stands out as a premier example of hammerless Drilling craftsmanship. Fortuna-Suhl Drillings are celebrated not only for their mechanical reliability but also for their artistic elegance—often adorned with hand-cut engravings, richly blued finishes, and premium walnut stocks featuring carved cheekpieces and fine checkering. Most models are chambered in traditional hunting calibers such as 16 or 12 gauge, paired with rifle cartridges like 7x57R, 7x65R, or 8x57IRS, providing the versatility required for varied European hunting environments. These guns exemplify the pinnacle of bespoke firearms, marrying function and form in a way few modern firearms can rival. Collectors and hunters alike prize Fortuna-Suhl Drillings for their smooth operation, historical pedigree, and the old-world attention to detail that has become increasingly rare in today’s mass-produced firearm market.

Specifications:

Manufacturer: Fortuna-Suhl
Model: German Drilling
Serial: 498231
Caliber: 16 Gauge (Top Left & Right Barrels) and 7x57R (Bottom Barrel)
Finish: Blue
Barrel Length: 24" 
Optics/Sights: Fixed Blade Front with Folding Leaf Rear and Installed German 13518 6x42/49 Scope
Stock/Grips: Checkered Walnut Buttstock with Curved Comb and Cheekpiece, and Checkered Walnut Forearm
Action: Top-Lever Break-Action "Drilling" Combination Gun
Markings: The top of the left barrel is stamped “SPECIAL-GEWEHRLAUFSTAHL.” The top of the right barrel is stamped “FORTUNA-SUHL.” The frame, barrel, and forearm all feature the matching serial number. The frame and bottom of the barrels feature German stampings and proof markings. 

May 20th 2025 Bryant Ridge

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