Krieghoff International used the occasion of the Vintage Cup World Side-by-Side Championship and Exhibition, September 18-21, 2003, at Orvis Sandanona in New York, to show a brand-new side-by-side shotgun.

Krieghoff, in partnership with German master gunsmith Jens Ziegenhahn, proudly offers a hand-built shotgun of the highest quality, worthy of the name Krieghoff. The 20-bore gun is missing the ornate ‘Continental’ look one might expect from a fourth-generation German gunmaker; instead, its elegant lines more closely resemble traditional British ‘best’ sidelock guns. One hundred percent German-made, the gun was developed to explore opportunities in the upper price segment for a Krieghoff game gun—a significant step for a company that has been a world leader in competition shotguns.

            Photo courtesy of Gold Medal Concours / Steve Helsley.

The response at The Vintage Cup, which attracts mainly people interested in side-by-sides, was overwhelmingly favorable. In the Gold Medal Concours d‘Elegance, concurrent with The Vintage Cup, the new shotgun was awarded a Silver Award in the category of New European Sidelock Guns and The Shooting Sportsman Magazine Award for “a contemporary custom-fitted game gun that best typifies the ideal for upland hunting”. As a result of this very positive showing, Krieghoff has decided to go forward with the project and deliveries will begin in the late summer of 2004. Ten guns will be built in 2004. Several Authorized Krieghoff Dealers have stepped forward and placed launching orders. The Essencia will initially be sold through these dealers who will be glad to discuss your specific needs and accept your order.

The Krieghoff Essencia Side-by-Side Sidelock Shotgun’s main attributes are very elegant lines combined with excellent handling and balance. The round body, clean lines and sleek, back-action sidelock contours stand out immediately.

The current retail price for the gun with standard specifications is $22,950. The optional single trigger is $985 extra. Extra barrel sets retail for $7,995 in 16 or 28 gauge, and $5,995 for an additional 20-gauge barrel set. Deliveries will begin by September 2004. 12-gauge guns will be available in the Fall of 2005. Prices and specifications are subject to change without notice.