Bernardelli Las Palomas Pigeon
Vincenzo Bernardelli · Shotgun · Discontinued · 1979
Also known as: Las Palomas, Las Palomas Pigeon Model
Overview
The Bernardelli Las Palomas Pigeon is an Italian side-by-side double-barrel shotgun built by Vincenzo Bernardelli of Brescia specifically for live-pigeon (columbaire) competition. A top-of-the-line sideplated boxlock in 12 gauge, it features a mechanical non-selective single trigger, automatic ejectors, and special tight chokes (improved-modified and full) suited to fast, long crossing targets. With 28-inch (711 mm) barrels and a weight around 3.4-3.5 kg, it ranked among Bernardelli's finest competition doubles.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 3450 g (121.7 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1137 mm (44.76") |
| Barrel Length | 711 mm (27.99") |
| Action Type | Break Action |
| Firing Mechanism | Internal Hammer |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Magazine Capacity | 2 rounds |
| Effective Range | 40 m (44 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | None |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Wood |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- 12 Gauge · primary — also known as 12GA, 12 Bore
Features
- Firing modes: Manual
- Feed systems: Break Open Barrels
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety
- Features: Sideplated Boxlock Action, Non Selective Single Trigger, Automatic Ejectors, Fixed Chokes Im And Full, Game Scene Engraving, Pigeon Competition Rib
Service history
Operators
- Competitive pigeon shooters
Origin
Country of origin: Italy
Notes
Sources describe the Las Palomas as a sideplated boxlock action dressed like a sidelock. Barrel length 71 cm (28"), stock length 35.5 cm (14"), overall length 114 cm (44.75"), chokes 3/4 and full (improved-modified and full), weight about 3.4-3.5 kg. Chamberings other than 12 gauge and precise engraving grades were not individually documented in the consulted sources.
Background
Named with the Spanish for "the doves," the Las Palomas was purpose-built for columbaire live-pigeon rings, where birds launched from ground boxes demanded a fast-handling gun choked tight enough to fold a bird streaking for the boundary fence.