I just had a commission very similar to what you are asking for.
My client had a budget of £7000 for a Purdey hammerless sidelock ejector. i sourced a gun for him at £4100 and, once the necessary work has been completed by Purdey-trained gunsmiths, the final bill to the client was £5000.
For your budget you will get a very usable Purdey sidelock for £7000; a much better one for £10,000. For £15,000 you will have a gun to die for.
So,the short answer is 'Yes' you can have what you want for your budget. With Holland's, consider the 'Badminton' - a best gun in every respect except rather less engraving than on a 'Royal' - very good value at around £5000 for a good 'un.
Start with a good action, free from alteration or serious wear or defects. The rest of the value of the gun will be primarily in the barrels and secondarily in the woodwork. Thnner barrels will drop the price. New barrels by another maker will drop the price, sleeving or lining will drop the price. Strangely, new barrels by the maker rather than original barrels in perfect condition will drop the price.
If the stock is awful it can be worth buying cheap and having it re-stocked to suit you.
You have the means to buy yourself a very nice Purdey or Holland. Happy hunting.
check out:
http://www.gavingardiner.comhttp://www.holtandcompany.co.ukhttp://www.christies.comyous hould find some inspiration.
best
Dig
