Not higher end:
1972 vintage Ugartechea Falcon, very similar to the model 30, but, with 3” proof, which might explain why the hidden third fastener is there. It has a robust double underbite, I have my doubts the third fastener was actually needed.
Ted, your Ugartechea may not be higher end, but it still speaks of quality. Good stuff.
I found my copy of the ‘The Modern Shotgun’, Vol. I, by Major Sir Gerald Burrard, pgs. 52, 53, 56, he states and I quote, re: the concealed third fastener, “The third general type of top extension is a plain horizontal extension which fits into a slot in the action face and is then held down by a bolt which slides forwards above the extension. This type obviously cannot be fitted at the very top of the barrels or there would be no room for the holding down bolt, and it is frequently fitted about halfway between the top and bottom of the barrels. In this position it is popular with some of the makers of best-grade guns who want to make use of an additional grip in some special gun designed for heavy charges, as it can be made to protrude through slots in the extractors, and so is partially hidden by the extractors. On this account it is sometimes termed a “concealed” extension, and it certainly has the advantage over extensions of the doll’s head and cross-bolt type that it doesn’t interfere in any way with the work of loading. ...In high-grade guns where an extra grip is thought advisable the “concealed” plain extension is excellent, for in guns on the building of which the best workmanship is expended the bolt can be relied upon to fit.” He then refers the reader to a plate showing a Purdey SL shotgun action with barrels as an example, pg. 174.
