An unusual 24ga W. Collath Double Rifle

[buckstix]

An unusual 24ga W. Collath Double Rifle

I am always attracted to unusual and unique double rifles, and this one sure fits the bill. This Collath, like the Dreyse 11mm I posted earlier, also comes from Europe. The high grade features of this Collath double rifle would indicates it must have been made for a customer that could afford the very best.

I will have this double rifle in hand some time next week and I will post additional pictures then. In the mean time, the following pictures came from the seller's post. Searching the internet shows several Collath SxS shotguns and drillings, but this was the only double rifle found. The fact that its 24 gauge will make loading and regulation a challenge. The bore size of a 24 gauge shotgun is 0.579 inches in diameter. A paradox style bullet mold will be ordered for 24 gauge, and a regulating load will be developed.

This Collath's function is is very interesting. When the under-lever beneath the forearm is rotated, a cam pulls the barrel assembly forward. From this forward position, the barrels can be tipped down for loading, just like a conventional break-action double.
(like this link shows) https://i697.photobucket.com/a...sidejoseDSCN0777.jpg

Any additional information about W. Collath, and your comments, are most welcome.

https://www.buckstix.com/buckpics/COLLATH-00.jpg

[buckstix]

Hello ... I got the double rifle in hand today. Its in spectacular condition. But, now I'm really confused as to the caliber. I guess the "CAL 3 24" marking must stand for 3" 24 gauge. But the chamber cast is identical to 600 NE, except with a thinner and smaller dia rim. Perhaps a 600 bpe?

any suggestions?

https://www.buckstix.com/buckpics/24ga-cast-000.jpg