Cordy 16 RBGG
Posted: Fri Sep 04, 2026 12:26 pm
Description according to the seller:
"The A. Cordy & Fils Deluxe Side-by-Side is an exceptionally elegant between the wars Belgian game gun that showcases the extraordinary level of craftsmanship once produced in Liège, Belgium, one of the historic centers of fine European gun making. Built with a true round-body sidelock action, extensive hand engraving, and refined proportions, this 16 bore represents the type of bespoke sporting arm that placed the finest Belgian makers alongside such prestigious names as Lebeau-Courally, Francotte, Lajot, and the FN Browning Custom Shop.
Chambered in 16 gauge with 2.75" chambers, the gun is fitted with 28" barrels choked Modified (.015") and Improved Modified (.022"), an excellent combination for upland birds and traditional game shooting. Weighing only 6 pounds 2 ounces, it offers the lively handling and effortless carry that have made the 16 bore a favorite among discerning game shooters. The concave tapering rib features matted outer edges with a smooth center section and is fitted with a gold front bead, creating an elegant and highly functional sighting plane.
The shotgun is built on a true round-body sidelock action equipped with double triggers, articulated front trigger, cocking indicators, ejectors, and a Purdey-style hidden treble fastener. Combined with double underlugs, the action is exceptionally strong while maintaining the graceful lines expected of a best-quality game gun. The ejectors remain strong and properly timed, and the gun locks up tight.
The defining feature of this shotgun is its remarkable engraving. The round-body sidelock action is covered almost entirely with acanthus scroll engraving, executed to a very high standard. The flowing scrollwork follows the contours of the action beautifully and gives the gun the appearance of a true bespoke continental best gun. The engraving is both extensive and exceptionally well executed, making it one of the visual highlights of the piece.
The barrels retain their blued finish and complement the engraved receiver perfectly.
The shotgun wears a beautifully proportioned straight-grip walnut stock and splinter forend, both featuring sharp diamond-pattern checkering. Additional details include a blank gold initial oval in the belly of the stock and an orange recoil pad. The overall stock architecture is classic and elegant, perfectly matching the refined character of the gun.
This is a truly impressive Belgian sidelock that demonstrates the quality and artistry for which Liège gunmakers became famous. Lightweight, mechanically sophisticated, and beautifully engraved, this A. Cordy & Fils stands comfortably alongside the finest Belgian sporting arms and would make a superb addition to any collection of high-grade European game guns."
Based on what I could find, A Cordy & Fils did not make a lot of guns but the ones they made were typically of very high quality. Total output was less than a couple of thousand according to one source. The engraving may be by Hippolite Corumbelle. They also made a sublime O/U that was way ahead of its' time. They also did barrel work for FN and a few others. I had been looking for a Round Body game gun with a straight Stock in 16 gauge for a while. I had been looking for a John Dickson and Sons, MacNaughtan or/and a Westley Richards that met my parameters when this one popped up.
I bought it and then sent it back to have the chokes opened up to my specifications, let's just say way open and open. This is going to be a great woodcock gun to use this fall when I want to give Reynard a rest.
"The A. Cordy & Fils Deluxe Side-by-Side is an exceptionally elegant between the wars Belgian game gun that showcases the extraordinary level of craftsmanship once produced in Liège, Belgium, one of the historic centers of fine European gun making. Built with a true round-body sidelock action, extensive hand engraving, and refined proportions, this 16 bore represents the type of bespoke sporting arm that placed the finest Belgian makers alongside such prestigious names as Lebeau-Courally, Francotte, Lajot, and the FN Browning Custom Shop.
Chambered in 16 gauge with 2.75" chambers, the gun is fitted with 28" barrels choked Modified (.015") and Improved Modified (.022"), an excellent combination for upland birds and traditional game shooting. Weighing only 6 pounds 2 ounces, it offers the lively handling and effortless carry that have made the 16 bore a favorite among discerning game shooters. The concave tapering rib features matted outer edges with a smooth center section and is fitted with a gold front bead, creating an elegant and highly functional sighting plane.
The shotgun is built on a true round-body sidelock action equipped with double triggers, articulated front trigger, cocking indicators, ejectors, and a Purdey-style hidden treble fastener. Combined with double underlugs, the action is exceptionally strong while maintaining the graceful lines expected of a best-quality game gun. The ejectors remain strong and properly timed, and the gun locks up tight.
The defining feature of this shotgun is its remarkable engraving. The round-body sidelock action is covered almost entirely with acanthus scroll engraving, executed to a very high standard. The flowing scrollwork follows the contours of the action beautifully and gives the gun the appearance of a true bespoke continental best gun. The engraving is both extensive and exceptionally well executed, making it one of the visual highlights of the piece.
The barrels retain their blued finish and complement the engraved receiver perfectly.
The shotgun wears a beautifully proportioned straight-grip walnut stock and splinter forend, both featuring sharp diamond-pattern checkering. Additional details include a blank gold initial oval in the belly of the stock and an orange recoil pad. The overall stock architecture is classic and elegant, perfectly matching the refined character of the gun.
This is a truly impressive Belgian sidelock that demonstrates the quality and artistry for which Liège gunmakers became famous. Lightweight, mechanically sophisticated, and beautifully engraved, this A. Cordy & Fils stands comfortably alongside the finest Belgian sporting arms and would make a superb addition to any collection of high-grade European game guns."
Based on what I could find, A Cordy & Fils did not make a lot of guns but the ones they made were typically of very high quality. Total output was less than a couple of thousand according to one source. The engraving may be by Hippolite Corumbelle. They also made a sublime O/U that was way ahead of its' time. They also did barrel work for FN and a few others. I had been looking for a Round Body game gun with a straight Stock in 16 gauge for a while. I had been looking for a John Dickson and Sons, MacNaughtan or/and a Westley Richards that met my parameters when this one popped up.
I bought it and then sent it back to have the chokes opened up to my specifications, let's just say way open and open. This is going to be a great woodcock gun to use this fall when I want to give Reynard a rest.