Gil,
PM sent.
Gene,
Thank you for your service.
In 1969, I was a nine year old little boy, but, I was fascinated even then with the Roger Barlow article in the 1965 Shooters Bible. Opening day of pheasant season was like Christmas morning to me, and the only day I was positive I would be able to go. My Dad had adult friends that he hunted with, and, sometimes the kids weren't invited, not until I got older, anyway. But, opener was for us kids to go, and I wouldn't have missed it. Dad got a dog in 1971, an Irish Setter out of show stock, that would hunt, and I have a lot more memories of hunting after that watershed moment.
I got my first Darne in the early 1980s, and haven't looked back. If you can make them work, they are a great little birdgun. I hope yours works out well for you.
When I was in France, the makers told me that the 20s were the rare guns, but, 28s and .410s are right in there. You could get a 24 gauge, if you wanted, few people did.
3/8ths short in the stock will be managable. If you have spent some time throwing that thing to your shoulder, I think you will understand what I mean about messing up the balance. Most 20 gauge Darnes are wisps, that don't require a pad, nor do they need one if you keep your ammunition sensible.
You are in for a treat when you go to take the stock off! If you intend to do it yourself, I'll get you through it. Do post a photo of the barrel flats when you have time, and I will tell you what I can about the gun. Some of the 20s, for some reason, have pretty big bores, I'm curious to see what your's is marked with.
Mr. Brown, how is your study going with the R model 16 you confessed to buying this summer? Did you give up yet?
Best,
Ted
