I just picked up a Franchi Falconet .410 O/U in very nice condition. It is built on an aluminum 20 gauge frame, of course, but appears to be a pretty nice gun with very bright bluing, double-ribbed barrels, and single selective triggers. I won't have occasion to shoot it for a week or two, but was wondering if anyone has any experience with this model, good or bad. You won't hurt my feelings since I'm in it "right" in any event.

I have one and really enjoy it. The only problem I've ever had was that it discharged(with the safety on and on my shoulder) twice. I polished the sears and have never had any more trouble.

Thanks for mentioning the unintended discharge. I'll watch for that!

The Falconet was around when I was a teener. It's a good, lightweight hunter....much better in sub gauges than in a 12ga, due to the light weight. The 410 should be a great one. Have fun!

Unfortunately, the .410 Falconet isn't as light or as compact as it might be. It is built on a 20 gauge frame, and since it is an underlug action the frame is also deeper than it might otherwise be. This results in barrels that are VERY thick over the chambers (look like a rifle barrel from the rear!) At least they did use a vent rib between the rather widely separated barrels to lighten it a bit.

No complaints, however, as it is still as light as most 20's, should point and swing well, and should have virtually no recoil.