243ackley,
The preference for a BF over a BBF is entirely personal, much like the preference for a SxS shotgun over an O/U. As stated above, a BF is easier than a BBF to reload, but they seem to be more sensitive to the rifle barrel heating up( usually a problem only in "sighting in" or testing handloads, not in hunting). Both configurations were/are available with extra barrel or multi barrel sets. I hunt with both types, as well as drillings, and enjoy them all( also single shots). If you post a photo of all markings, including proof marks, we can likely date it for you. In general, Suhl made guns were pre-war and Eckernforde(?) made guns are post war. There were a few years right after the war, before Eckernforde opened that they were made in Suhl. The post war guns are different design than prewar. Fortuna marked guns are generally said to be the same design as prewar Sauers, made in the same plant( Communist management may have resulted in a difference in workmanship, however). The 7x57R is one of my favorite calibers, BTW, I use the 11.2 gram HMK bullet. German and Austrian made BFs usually have the rifle barrel on the right side, whereas the Belgians and Brits usually put them on the left.
Mike
Last edited by Der Ami; 02/07/19 05:44 PM.
