It isn’t a .270 Winchester crafted by Al Biesen with a sheep or two to its credit, but it certainly is something special—Jack O’Connor’s Eusebio Arizaga 20-gauge shotgun.
Supported by a letter from an O’Connor family member, Serial Number 49401 was acquired in 1956 by Jack O’Connor during a visit to Spain. It includes two sets of 26-inch barrels, each with a three-inch chamber and a matted rib topped with a single bead. Barrel number 1 is choked IC/M and number 2 a tighter M/F.
At some point, per documentation, O’Connor had Al Biesen refresh the checkering. A Miller single trigger was also added, but records do not indicate who performed the installation. Additional features include ejectors, mechanical safety, beavertail forend, checkered butt, and an initial plate on the toe line engraved “JOC.”
A seven-pin sidelock, the action wears full-coverage engraving—a fine floral and ribbon pattern that flows onto the forend furniture, barrels, toplever, safety, and tangs. A well-used, takedown leather case with “Jack O’Connor Lewiston, Idaho” stenciled on the outer lid is included. The gun weighs 6.4 pounds. Length of pull is 14.2 inches, and drops are approximately 1½ and 2¾ inches, respectively.
Both barrels retain some 98 percent of their rust-blue finish, as does the forend furniture, toplever, safety, sidelever, guard, and both tangs. Bores remain bright and shiny. The action appears to have a nickel finish that has dulled slightly from use, yet remains about 95 percent as well. A small dent appears at the left rear of the trigger guard. Overall, the wood is in excellent condition.
Firearms expert John Taylor offers a global view of shotguns using photographs and descriptions of guns from the U.S. and many European countries. Sections include how to care for and store your gun, available accessories, and travel cases. Buy Now
