I have long admired the Belgian Browning Superposed, but from a distance. I am considering a purchase, but I am uncertain about the various grade options. I would appreciate it if someone could offer some insight into the difference between the Diana, Midas and Pigeon levels of finish.
Pigeon Grade-lightly engraved silver/grey receiver flying pigeons
Diana Grade-deeper engraving with ducks and pheasants
Midas Grade-deep relief engraving with gold inlaid ducks and pheasants and a quail on the bottom, best quality wood.
I would also be very careful to get educated on not only the grades, but the specific models and gauges, barrel lengths and chokes, the salt years, round knob/long tang, etc. Buying at a distance is risky for all but the experts or make sure you're dealing with somebody you know or has a long and excellent reputation.
Good advice. Tons to know about the Superposed before you drop a wad of cash on one.
The salt wood Brownings were made between 65 and 72, with maybe a little extra on each end.
That is very good advice. Thanks for your input. Can you suggest reference material that would be helpful in learning about the Brownings? Also, I encounter the salt wood issue in almost every discussion I see on the Brownings. What happened exactly?
The makers of salt wood guns packed the wood in salt to dry out the wood quicker. The salt leached back onto the metal.
Here's a link to the salt wood story at Browning. Also important to check that the rib is not loose (I've had one like that, seen many others).
http://www.artsgunshop.com/Salt/Salt_Article-Page-1.htm
Thanks, that is a really good article