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Franchi AL48 Eldorado

tone59tone59 Member Posts: 673 ✭✭
edited December 2023 in Ask the Experts
I am looking at a Franchi shotgun.
Seller says it is an Italian made(1983)Franchi AL48 Eldorado grade with a 23in. Buck barrel.
In the book I have,the Eldorados were Disc.after 1975 and there is no mention of a Buck barrel variation.
I know the book can be wrong but not too often.
I am waiting for additional pics.from the seller.
Can someone out there share any knowledge they have about these guns.
This one appears to be in great shape.
I would like to be sure it is an all original Franchi AL48 Eldorado before making an offer.
I need to hear from knowledgeable Franchi guys.
Thank You.
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Comments

  • rufe-snowrufe-snow Member Posts: 18,650 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    I had a semi-auto Franchi years ago. It had a similar long recoil mechanism to the Browning Auto 5. It was way light for a 12, don't recall at this late date if the receiver was made out of aluminum or steel? To make a long story short it was a ugly, hard kicking gun to shoot with field loads. Wouldn't even contemplate using it with rifled slugs or buck. If at all possible see if you can test fire it with high base buckshot or slug loads before buying it.
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  • nmyersnmyers Member Posts: 16,892 ✭✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    Several years ago there was a serious safety problem with the Franchi SPAS-12; they redesigned the trigger group, but refused to make it available to US owners.

    On general principles, I wouldn't have one of their guns.

    Neal
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  • spas12spas12 Member Posts: 571 ✭✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    quote:Originally posted by nmyers
    Several years ago there was a serious safety problem with the Franchi SPAS-12; they redesigned the trigger group, but refused to make it available to US owners.

    On general principles, I wouldn't have one of their guns.

    Neal

    Wrong, the improved trigger groups were available until benelli became franchi's importer.
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  • tsr1965tsr1965 Member Posts: 8,682 ✭✭
    edited November -1
    This post pertains to the Franchi 48AL, not the SPAS12.

    The Franchi 48AL, is a recoil operated semi-auto, just as describes by rufe-snow, it is similar in design to the Browning Auto-5.

    I believe all of their models, from what material I have read, were all aluminum reciever's. This model came along in 1950. As in most manufacturing, there was one model made in several different grades from the least expensive utilitarian model, to the exquisitly enhanced model's designated to be safe queen's.

    The BlueBook says to add $30.00 for the buck barrel model. I do not believe it matter's much as to originality, as these are NOT collector grade shotgun's...not even the most highly decorated one's.

    Best

    EDIT 1

    I do have the 28 gauge version, with a 26 inch vent rib barrel, and choke tube system. I think I got it in 2002, if I am not mistaken. It is my favorate upland bird gun for woodcock, grouse, and pheasant. Very light, and fast pointing.

    Best
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  • GuvamintCheeseGuvamintCheese Member Posts: 38,932 ✭
    edited November -1
    Very light to carry but persnickety with ammo and kicked hard. If you want a semi auto you should look to something else IMO.
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  • mondmond Member Posts: 6,458
    edited November -1
    Although the 48 model was a reliable bird buster,light & a lovelly swing, it is as said above brutal on the shoulder, after a few cases. Look at a later 520/620/720 ultra reliable & more gentile on the shoulder ;)
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  • laubwdlaubwd Member Posts: 2 ✭
    edited December 2023

    I'm looking for a Franchi 48AL 12 gauge trigger group. I have a feeling I recently bid against one of our fine members for one on ebay, but I eventually lost the bid.

    I have an otherwise beautiful shotgun, with a faulty trigger group, the gun requires a double pull of the trigger to activate the firing pin, so quite unsafe.

    Please contact me if anyone has a lead for me.

    Thanks in advance/ Bill

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  • Ruger4meRuger4me Member, Moderator Posts: 3,835 ******

    The post you brought back is over 11 years old,... You can post what you are looking for in the wanted sub forum where these type of questions should be asked.

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This discussion has been closed.