maybe this belongs in the gunsmithing section, or maybe in shotguns, but i saw "12 ga from hell" here, so i apologize if this is in the wrong area. my question is, how expensive and could it be reasonably done, to build a 8 gauge shotgun, in either singel shot, or preferably in a double barrel setup? or do they offer any for sale here in the US that could shoot modern day ammo (if it is available)?

What are you wanting to do with an 8 bore shotgun. As there is little if any game animals that can be taken with anything larger than a 10 bore. The 4 and 8 bore guns were outlawed for waterfowling about 1910, when market hunting was banned.

They are the great beast of smooth bores, and very impressive in size(16+lbs). Lots of money and effort just to kill clay birds. IMHO

Hog Killer

I think you would be looking at SERIOUS money to build this in a cartridge configuration (especially a double). What you might consider (if you want a scattergun) is having a black powder weapon made with a paradox bbl so you can also shoot round ball. This would make for a more versatile weapon and you would "only" be looking at around $3500 for this option. Jim Gefroh in Colorado could build it.


Best,

John

clay birds? is that the limit of your vision???? seriously, i figured why not? kinda unusual request, but i think it would be neat, nevermind the bragging rights i could have, kinda like mine is bigger than yours. and i could use it for turkey hunting. i'm dead serious about this, not pulling a on the big 8. let me know, as i am considering doing this!

byf42, I was just looking at the realities of what an 8 bore CAN be used on, without the bird and turtle boys getting bent. Yes turkeys could be hunted in most places with an 8. Do not get me wrong, I love just about anything that will go boom. If you have the $$, then go for it and have all of the fun you can stand. I do think that the most cost effective weapon would be a ML. This would add another demention to the uniquiness of your 8 bore. For that extra special touch, make it a flinter.

Hog Killer

Back in 1990, I was in London and visited Holland & Holland's shop at 92 New Bond Street where they had a 8 bore on display. It was one of a series of four called the "Suarian" and was for sale at a mere 200,000 pounds sterling.

I too wish someone would come up with a single shot 8 ga. as I still have almost 4 full cases of those shells with 2 ozs. of #4 shot.
Any of you savey guys know where I could get a barrel blank UNCHAMBERED in that ga.??
Thx

not looking for an "8 bore" looking for an 8 gauge.. something that will shoot something like this- http://shop2.mailordercentral.com/bpicart/images/hull_rem8.JPG

or
http://www.winchester.com/images/industrial/industrial_loads/CE8B2LVP.jpg

i understand that a "bore" is the same as a "gauge", but not looking for an old english "bore" or paradox.. looking for a shotgun, or info on getting one built, kinda like your remington 870, only in 8 gauge instead of 12.

There is a very nice Cogswell and Harrison 8 bore for sale in the Classifieds here if you're interested. The Brits deliver pre 1898 guns to your door in the US if you buy from them.

Cheers!

A few years ago, there was a gunsmith/gunmaker
in England importing heavy Spanish 10 ga. and
then rechambering and boring them to 8. Since
he had to slubmit them for proof, he must have
done a good job. Maybe you could do the same.
You might also check in on one of the shotgun
or side by side forums and post your request
for info. www.gunshop.com comes to mind. Lots
of guys there into this sort of thing.
Check the various state laws. Some only have
the 8 ga. restriction on waterfowl. It's a bit
much for doves or crows. Just smoke and a few
feathers drifting in the breese.
Raff

precisely what i was looking for! thanks!

Do you want me to email you a 8 guage article?

See here.