This exquisite Pedersen Custom Model 1000 Over/Under Shotgun, engraved by the renowned master engraver Angelo Bee, was manufactured in Italy between 1973 and 1975. Customized by Pedersen Custom Guns, a subsidiary of O.F. Mossberg based in North Haven, Connecticut, this shotgun is a testament to fine craftsmanship and artistry, making it a true collector’s item. With intricate engravings by Angelo Bee, the shotgun showcases not only exceptional mechanical design but also exquisite artistic detail, making it a standout piece for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
The shotgun features 28-inch blued fluid steel barrels with a ventilated rib and a single bead sight, optimizing it for precision shooting. These barrels are fitted with ejectors and designed for screw-in chokes, although the choke tubes are currently missing. This practical design complements the firearm’s artistic enhancements, blending functionality with beauty.
The blued box lock frame is adorned with stunning gold scrollwork, meticulously encircling gold inlays of ducks on the left side and grouse on the right. The floor plate features additional intricate gold scroll engraving, surrounding three gold quail, while the blued trigger guard is inlaid with a single gold quail. Angelo Bee’s signature on the frame proudly confirms the shotgun’s status as a work of art, showcasing the engraver’s renowned skill and attention to detail.
The shotgun is equipped with a blued single trigger and a top tang barrel safety selector, ensuring reliable and safe operation. The stock is crafted from a stunning piece of feather crotch walnut, featuring a satin finish and finely detailed checkering on the pistol grip and side panels. For added comfort, the stock is fitted with an “Uncle Mike’s” vented recoil pad. The matching Schnabel forearm, equipped with a roller latch, complements the shotgun’s elegant design. Despite a repaired crack that has caused minor dislocation in the finish, the overall aesthetic remains striking.
Functionally, this Pedersen Custom Model 1000 remains in excellent condition. The barrels retain 90% of their blued finish, with only light edge wear, and the action shows 90% wear in the carry area, reflecting careful handling over the years. Despite small handling dings, the original hand-rubbed finish and sharp checkering are still well-preserved, and the bore remains in excellent condition. The mechanics of the shotgun are fully functional, ensuring that it performs as beautifully as it looks.
Specifications for this Angelo Bee engraved shotgun include:
- Caliber: 12 Gauge
- FFL Status: Modern
- Serial Number: PBA10942B
The Angelo Bee Engraved Pedersen Custom Model 1000 Over/Under Shotgun is more than just a firearm; it is a piece of art that blends the fine engraving artistry of Angelo Bee with the functionality of a high-quality shotgun. Its historical significance, combined with the beauty of its design and craftsmanship, make it a highly prized possession for any serious collector or shooting enthusiast. Whether admired for its aesthetic value or used for its intended purpose, this shotgun is a testament to fine gunmaking and engraving mastery.