"Vintage, turn-of-the-century shotgun. It has a 28” Damascus-steel barrel. ‘Syracuse Arms Company, Syracuse, New York’ stamped on the top of the left barrel, and ‘New Twist’ stamped on top of the right barrel. The number 1 stamped on the gun barrel indicates grade. 1s were a lightweight model and produced prior to 1897. Gun production likely ceased altogether around 1905. ‘24722’ is shown on the trigger guard strap and beneath the detachable forearm. All original parts. See photos for detail and proof markings."
As is demonstrated by this current dealer posting for a humble low grade example of the Syracuse Arms double gun; if you're a GB buyer you'd be wise to do your homework in advance of any purchase; and if you're a seller the gun should be represented honestly. As regards the above gun I assumed the seller didn't know any better, so I sent him a private mail several days ago to inform him as to the accurate description of his gun; which as of just now has not been changed, so this dealer clearly doesn't care. This gun is clearly marked as a Grade O gun and is not a Grade 1 as alleged. No one knows exactly what the "1" stamp on the barrel tubes denote; but that stamp most likely denotes a frame size or barrel weight. This gun was not produced prior to 1897 as alleged; its serial number and production features dates this gun to 1902/03 production. And its promotion as "all original parts" is also incorrect as Syracuse never placed caps over round knob grips. This cap looks like it came from a Syracuse era Lefever; is crudely fitted and looks totally out of place. It's a pity that whoever winds up with this Syracuse will be getting something other than what he was thinking he'd purchased, especially AFTER the dealer was notified what he should do to correct his listing.
