J.P. Sauer & Sohn Model 3000 12 Gauge .243 Winchester Drilling 1987
Archival record: Specifications and condition reflect the firearm as listed at the time of auction.
Final Auction Price: $3,125.00
The J.P. Sauer & Sohn Model 3000 drilling reflects the elegance and practicality of traditional European hunting arms. Combining two 12 gauge shotgun barrels with a lower .243 Winchester rifle barrel, this West German made drilling was built for hunters who wanted one refined firearm capable of handling birds, small game, and larger game in the same outing. With fine walnut, coin finished receiver, tasteful engraving, and strong bores, this 1987 example is both a capable field gun and a handsome collectible.
Identification
MMA#: 260212JR001
Make: J.P. Sauer & Sohn, West Germany
Model: 3000
Serial Number: G10191
Year of Manufacture: 1987, JH date code
Caliber: 12 Gauge 2 3/4 inch over .243 Winchester
Action Type: Boxlock drilling with extractors, dual triggers, cocking indicators, tang mounted selector, side mounted safety, and front set trigger
Barrel Length: 25 inches, two top shotgun barrels and one lower rifle barrel
Choke: Left barrel Full, right barrel Modified
Sights / Optics
The front sight is a brass beaded blade dovetailed into the top rib in a fore and aft slot. The rear sight is a folding leaf sight dovetailed into the barrel rib and marked “100.” The leaf is intended to fold flush and automatically rise when the rifle barrel is selected, though it does not currently function correctly. The rear sight face and rib are finely serrated to reduce glare.
Stock / Grip Configuration & Condition
The stocks are two piece hand checkered walnut with pistol grip, black plastic grip cap, cheekpiece, rounded rear comb, and serrated black plastic Sauer buttplate. The beavertail forend uses a Deeley release. Sling mounts are present on the stock belly and beneath the rifle barrel. The wood shows a few small nicks, dings, and scattered compressions. Checkering remains sharp. Length of pull measures 14 3/8 inches from the forward trigger and 13 1/2 inches from the rear trigger to the buttplate. The Sauer buttplate shows small nicks and light scratches. Overall stock condition: Fine Plus.
Finish & Overall Condition
Type of Finish: Blued barrels with coin finished receiver
Finish Originality: Original
This drilling retains approximately 95 percent of its metal finish. The frame, barrel set, and forend iron are serial matching. Coin finished surfaces show spots of discoloration from previous oxidation. There are scattered small nicks and scratches, light handling marks, and operational wear. Screw heads are sharp and markings are clear. Overall condition: Fine.
Bore & Mechanics
Bore Condition: The rifle bore is bright with sharp rifling. The shotgun bores are bright. None show erosion, only light fouling. Rated 9.5 out of 10.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The safety is located on the left side of the wrist and the barrel selector is on the top tang. The front trigger is set by pushing it forward. This drilling was not test fired. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be desired before use.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories
None.
Our Assessment
The drilling is one of the great expressions of European gunmaking, combining versatility, precision, and artistry in a single firearm. J.P. Sauer & Sohn, founded in 1751, is one of Germany’s oldest and most respected firearms manufacturers, long known for finely built sporting arms before its modern association with SIG Sauer pistols.
This Model 3000 combines 12 gauge shotgun barrels with a .243 Winchester rifle barrel, making it an exceptionally versatile hunting arm. The shotgun barrels are well suited for upland game, while the .243 Winchester rifle barrel offers practical reach for deer sized game. The coin finished receiver, tasteful engraving, checkered walnut stocks, and clean mechanical layout all reflect Sauer’s traditional craftsmanship.
With strong bores, matching major components, and approximately 95 percent original finish remaining, this drilling is both a refined field gun and a desirable collectible. It would fit naturally in a collection of German hunting arms or serve as a highly capable hunting companion for someone who appreciates the usefulness and beauty of a well made drilling.
The Mt. McCoy Auctions Difference
At Mt. McCoy Auctions, every firearm is carefully documented and professionally photographed to create a detailed archival record. Our descriptions are written to provide collectors and shooters with a clear understanding of condition, features, and historical context.
