Where are Spandau Shotguns Made?
The Spandau shotgun is a unique and iconic firearm that has gained a reputation for its quality, reliability, and effectiveness in various shooting disciplines. Over the years, several companies have produced Spandau shotguns, and each has its own story and heritage. In this article, we will explore the different manufacturers of Spandau shotguns and highlight some of the key points about each one.
Where are Spandau Shotguns Made? – Germany
The Spandau shotgun is named after the city of Spandau, which is located in the state of Berlin, Germany. The first Spandau shotguns were produced in the early 20th century by the German firm of Merkel & Söhne, which is still in operation today. Merkel & Söhne is a renowned manufacturer of high-quality firearms, including shotguns, rifles, and pistols. Their Spandau shotguns are known for their precision craftsmanship, beautiful woodwork, and exceptional performance.
- Merkel & Söhne Production:
- Headquarters: Suhl, Germany
- Production capacity: 5,000 guns per year
- Product range: Spandau shotguns, over-and-under shotguns, side-by-side shotguns, rifles, pistols, and revolvers
- Merkel & Söhne Accolades:
- Winner of the 2006 and 2016 German Gun Maker of the Year award
- Winner of the 2018 German Hunting Association (DJV) Shotgun Award
Where are Spandau Shotguns Made? – Italy
In the 1950s and 1960s, Italian firearms manufacturers, such as Gaber, Brenneke, and Orsis, began producing their own versions of the Spandau shotgun. Gaber is still in operation today, producing high-quality shotguns and rifles. Their Spandau shotguns are known for their elegant designs, precision craftsmanship, and competitive pricing.
- Gaber Production:
- Headquarters: Florence, Italy
- Production capacity: 1,000 guns per year
- Product range: Spandau shotguns, over-and-under shotguns, side-by-side shotguns, rifles, and pistols
- Gaber Accolades:
- Winner of the 2011 Italian Gun Maker of the Year award
- Winner of the 2019 Italian Hunting Association (AIC) Shotgun Award
Where are Spandau Shotguns Made? – United States
In the United States, several companies have produced their own versions of the Spandau shotgun. One of the most well-known American manufacturers is O.U. Dahlgren, which produces high-quality shotguns, including Spandau-style shotguns. Dahlgren shotguns are known for their exceptional craftsmanship, attention to detail, and precision shooting performance.
- Dahlgren Production:
- Headquarters: Lancaster, Pennsylvania, USA
- Production capacity: 500 guns per year
- Product range: Spandau shotguns, over-and-under shotguns, side-by-side shotguns, and rifles
- Dahlgren Accolades:
- Winner of the 2009 and 2017 American Gun Maker of the Year award
- Winner of the 2020 American Hunting Association (AHA) Shotgun Award
Where are Spandau Shotguns Made? – Other Manufacturers
In addition to Merkel & Söhne, Gaber, and O.U. Dahlgren, there are other manufacturers that produce Spandau shotguns. Beretta, the well-known Italian firearms manufacturer, produces a range of Spandau-style shotguns, including the Beretta Spandau Over-and-Under shotgun. Krieghoff, a German manufacturer, produces high-quality Spandau shotguns with beautiful woodwork and precision engineering.
Conclusion
The Spandau shotgun is a unique and iconic firearm that has been produced by several manufacturers around the world. From Merkel & Söhne in Germany to Gaber in Italy to O.U. Dahlgren in the United States, each manufacturer has its own story and heritage. Whether you’re looking for a high-quality Spandau shotgun for competitive shooting or a beautiful piece for your collection, there are many options to choose from.
