J. MacPherson & Sons 2” Game Gun 12ga – 1950, 1-1/8OZ PROOF, IC/M, CASED

The British 2” 12-bore game gun is one of the more fascinating developments in sporting-gun history. The idea was to build an exceptionally light, fast-handling upland gun while retaining the larger bore diameter of a 12 gauge. The result was a gun that could weigh less than many traditional 20 gauges yet still possess the handling characteristics and bore dimensions of a 12. Genuine 2” game guns were never common, and good examples are increasingly difficult to find.

This John MacPherson & Sons 12 gauge, built in 1950 and believed to have been made for MacPherson by Skimin & Wood, is an especially attractive example. At just 5 lb. 10 oz. with 27 5/8” barrels and balance just ahead of the hinge pin, it has the lively feel these specialized guns were intended to provide.

The gun is beautifully finished with extensive hand-cut English scroll engraving over the action, fences, top lever and trigger guard. The engraving remains clear and crisp, the screws are excellent, and substantial original case color remains on the action. The straight-hand English walnut stock is particularly attractive, with strong dark figure running through both sides, excellent checkering, excellent wood-to-metal fit and a hand-rubbed oil finish. The checkered wood butt preserves the traditional lightweight configuration.

One of the most interesting features of this particular gun is its proof. Many 2” game guns were built around lighter shot charges, while this MacPherson is clearly marked and Nitro Proofed for an unusually heavy 1 1/8 oz. load. The barrels remain in their proper 2” configuration and are prominently marked “FOR 2 INCH CASE ONLY.”

The 27 5/8” barrels retain excellent blue, with tight ribs, mirror-bright bores and no dents. Chokes measure approximately Improved Cylinder and Modified, making this a very useful upland combination. Our gunsmiths have carefully measured and inspected the barrels and are comfortable offering the gun for use with proper 2” ammunition.

The action closes securely and is tight on the breech face. The ejectors are strong and properly timed, the double triggers are crisp, the automatic safety functions properly, and the gun remains an exceptionally lively and enjoyable example of the traditional British game gun.

Few 2” guns encountered today combine this level of cosmetic condition, attractive wood, useful dimensions, ejectors and the unusual heavy 1 1/8 oz. proof. At 5 lb. 10 oz., this MacPherson offers a handling experience that is difficult to duplicate with a conventional 12 or even many 20 gauges.

A handsome, unusual and highly usable Scottish game gun for the upland hunter or collector who appreciates the very specialized 2” British sporting-gun tradition. Negrini case included.