Kessler 16 guage

[tcfrank]

I recently inherited a kessler 16 guage bolt action...it was rfinished previously and it looks like the barrel from the kessler was put on an old Mossberg 16 guage bolt stock. I am not sure but the trigger guard extends down towards the butt end of the stock and has a textured grip (i will try to post pics later) like on a mossberg. I would like to use the gun as a slug gun for deer. Anyone familiar with these guns? I would like to replace the bolt since it is rather pitted and possibly the barrel.

 

[oupa]

These were very low-end guns. I'd have to get the books out but it is highly likely that Mossberg actually made them, I'd have to check though. Mossberg made A LOT of other people's (branded) guns over the years. Kessler may have been one of the South American "store-brand" Mfg's though... Google it! It's today's best (first) reference tool.

Anyway... unless there is considerable sentimental value attached to the gun, any professional work will not be cost effective. If you want a BA slug gun, Mossberg sells new ones as cheap as you can have one professionally built on such an old gun and it will have all the bells and whistles, a rifled barrel, a warranty AND be safer.

Be warned, some of these old BA shotguns (Sears branded guns come to mind though it could have been others as well) were recalled decades ago due to a bolt retention issue. Yeah, the bolt sometimes flew out into the shooter's face when you shot em. Many, many were never sent back and are still floating around, Many can be found - especially in estates - w/o bolts.