Franz Kettner Drilling 20-11.59 R Gras

Make: Franz Kettner
Model: Drilling
Caliber: 20-11.59 R Gras
Action: Break
Barrel: 28
Bore: Bright
Serial # 12276
Condition: Very Good
�Collector� As per owner this was a bring back trophy from the Second World War by his uncle. This Franz Kettner Drilling is a rare, high-quality, three-barreled combination hunting firearm likely manufactured in Suhl, Germany during the late 19th or early 20th century. This specific firearm features a unique layout with 2 top rifle barrels and a single shotgun lower barrel configuration chambered for the heavy 11x59R rifle cartridge paired with 20ga shotgun. Franz Kettner was a premier master gunsmith whose family operated highly respected gunmaking facilities in Cologne and Suhl, known for producing custom, beautifully engraved multi-barrel firearms for European sportsmen. The 11x59R French Gras cartridge, was a powerful centerfire cartridge originally developed in 1874 for the French military. In a commercial German Drilling, it served as a heavy, large bore black powder (or early smokeless) cartridge designed to drop large European game like red deer or wild boar. Finding a vintage German Drilling in 20ga is highly desirable. Most Drillings of this era were made in heavier 12ga or 16ga, making a 20ga variant noticeably slimmer, lighter, and more elegant to carry. Specialized custom loaders like Buffalo Arms produce low-pressure black powder cartridge variants specifically for collectors and vintage shooters. Franz Kettner firearms are highly prized by collectors for their intense craftsmanship, hand-carved walnut stocks, and fine game-scene engravings. This example in its original patina features blued barrels, engraved receiver and double external rabbit eared hammers, a side release leaver, a thumb selector leaver, double triggers, a walnut hand checkered forend and round pistol grip stock with cheek rest , an ornate engraved bakelite buttplate with a 14� LOP, an engraved lower trapdoor made for 1 – 20ga 2 �� with a fixed Full choke, and 2 – 11x59R rounds, and sling swivels. There are also rifle type sights on the center barrel rib. There are some signs of use with some scratches in the wood and some small rust spots on the barrel exterior. Truly an elegant piece for any collector!! Please see photos.