DHE .410 Repro on 00-frame - do they exist?

[Bill Murphy]

We, or I, would like to hear more about this gun.

[Richard Skeuse]

Hi Guys ,Where did this photo come from and where is this gun? Anyone know? Thanks

[Wild Skies]

Well, I copied the pic from a FOR SALE listing, the seller is apparently from Florida and it's #52 of the reported 133 0000-frame .410 Repros that were started when the factory closed. It is also the 2nd BHE .410 on a 0000-frame to be found having DHE style engraving. This one has "PROTOTYPE" and "NFS" stamped on the barrel flats. The other rare, odd and unusual BHE/DHE engraved .410 4/0 framed gun, which I have held and examined, doesn't have these additional stampings.

[Bill Murphy]

Rumor was always that the unfinished 0000 frame guns were held by the Skeuse family. Some came out one at a time to Geofroy Gournet's shop for engraving and finishing. I don't expect Mr. Skeuse to confirm this information unless his family has plans to market these guns.

[Bill Mullins]

I find it is interesting to see a gun with a serial number of 52 being labeled
PROTOTYPE and NFS. One would normally expect to see that nomenclature
on the first one made, or a very low serial numbered gun, no number at all, or a "pxxx".

[Bill Mullins]

Bill... Do you remember the serial number and or any of the markings on
the "sample gun" you saw several years ago the PR representative had
when you ordered your 4/0 gun? As I recall you tried to buy it but it was not
for sale.

[Bill Murphy]

Sorry, Bill, I don't remember the serial number and I didn't take any pictures. It was an outstanding little gun and I wouldn't have expected a production gun to be any nicer.