Rating and value of Granger rifles

If you own a Granger rifle and would like to know its value, or if you don't know, the period and model of your weapon, our state-approved experts and auctioneers can offer you their expert appraisal services.

Our specialists will carry out a free appraisal of your weapon, and provide you with a precise estimate of its value on today's market.

Then, if you want to sell your property, we'll point you in the right direction to get the best possible price.  

Rating and value of Granger rifles

Granger rifles are highly sought-after by collectors. However, price differences can be considerable, depending on the model and condition of the gun.

Prices for these objects can now rise considerably under the auctioneer's hammer.

European buyers are taking an interest in the sale of certain rare pieces. The price at which they are selling on the art market ranges from €3,000 to €17,550, at the moment, a substantial difference but one that says a lot about the value that can be attributed to these weapons.

A 16/70-caliber Granger rifle with locks sold for €15,000 at Auctie's in late 2024, whereas its estimate was between €8,000 and €15,000. 

Value order ranging from simple to prestigious

History of Granger rifles  

Granger rifles, a product of the Saint-Etienne gunmaking tradition, bear witness to rigorous technical mastery as part of the history of French ballistic innovation.

Designed with remarkable precision, these weapons adopted innovative mechanisms from the outset, such as bolt-action or lever-action trigger-guard systems, designed to combine mechanical efficiency with rapid action.

Barrel design, often in forged steel, meets strict criteria of balance and strength, guaranteeing reliable ballistic performance in a wide range of conditions.

Aesthetically, Granger rifles are distinguished by delicate engravings and grips fashioned from noble woods, such as walnut, whose grain is carefully highlighted.

These choices are not merely decorative, but reflect a particular attention to ergonomics and handling, optimizing use in the field.

The influence of the Saint-Etienne tradition, combined with a quest for technical excellence, gives these rifles a notable place on the market, both for their functional value and for their heritage interest.

So, just like the arms signed Nicolas Boutetthe wheel guns or the infantry riflesGranger rifles are highly prized weapons on the auction market.

Evolution of Granger rifle mechanisms

Granger rifles are distinguished by a marked technical evolution, demonstrating an ability to integrate innovations while respecting the standards of precision and reliability for which they are renowned.

From the very first production runs, the Manufacture adopted central percussion mechanismspercussion mechanisms, improving safety and firing speed compared with flintlock or capsule systems.

The introduction of selective double triggers, offering greater flexibility in shot selection, illustrates a desire to combine technicality and adaptability for demanding hunters and shooters.

Over the years, bolt systems have become a Granger signature, combining robustness with ease of handling.

These mechanisms, combined with micrometrically precise machined chambers, optimize internal ballistics and reduce the risk of pressure loss during firing.

In the field of barrels, the factory innovates with spiral forging processes, reinforcing strength while lightening the weapon, a sought-after feature for long hunting sessions.

Last but not least, the stock finishes, sometimes incorporating adjustable cheek rest or stock length adjustments, reflect a concern for ergonomics and personalization, positioning Granger rifles at the forefront of functional and aesthetic equipment.

Freycon's engravings on Granger rifles

Freycon's engravings, featured on Granger rifles, embody a masterful fusion of craftsmanship and refinement, elevating these functional weapons to the status of true works of art.

This renowned engraver, active in the first half of the 20th century, created delicate compositions on bascules and turntables, combining hunting scenes and floral motifs of unrivalled finesse.

The engraved interlacing, often inspired by classical iconography, is characterized by millimetric precision, achieved through a rigorous, mastered chiseling technique reminiscent of the traditions of steel engraving.

This ornamental work is not limited to aesthetics: Freycon's engravings also add value to each piece, reinforcing the perception of exclusivity and prestige attached to Granger rifles.

The details of the animal scenes - running deer, partridges in flight - reveal a concern for realism that testifies to the artist's naturalist eye.

By choosing themes that exalt the world of hunting, Freycon enriches the symbolism of these weapons, while maintaining a subtle balance between tradition and innovation, reflecting the values dear to the Granger factory.

Focus on the 16/70-calibre Granger rifle.

This Granger 16/70 caliber bolt action rifle (n°7340) is the epitome of Granger craftsmanship excellence.

Equipped with two sets of interchangeable barrels (70 cm and 72 cm), it adapts elegantly to a variety of hunting practices, combining precision and maneuverability.

Its 375 mm English stock, with its delicately worked veins, offers a balanced grip, while the double trigger, the first of which is articulated, illustrates an attention to detail designed to optimize shooting comfort.

The eaglet clasp, combined with an efficient ejector, give the whole unit a flawless mechanics, a symbol of sturdiness and reliability. 

The refinement of this piece is enhanced by a masterful engraving by Freycon, where plant motifs and arabesques intertwine with finesse, highlighting the rocker and underlining the inscription "Camille Sipp Strasbourg", a guarantee of quality and prestigious origin.

The subtle nuances of the polished wood and the patina of the engraved steel reveal meticulous attention to detail.

Delivered in its original case, this declaration-registered C1 model stands out as both a functional and artistic masterpiece, ideal for discerning enthusiasts in search of a weapon that blends tradition and timeless elegance.

Understanding weapons classification in France

The classification of weapons in France is governed by precise rules to ensure strict control over their acquisition and possession.

Categories

Weapons are divided into several categories, each governing specific levels of danger and conditions of access:

- Category A, reserved for the most dangerous weapons, are mainly weapons of war, which private individuals are not allowed to buy or own. Article L. 312-2 of the French Internal Security Code stipulates that the possession and acquisition of these weapons is authorized solely to ensure public safety and national defense.

In addition, a Conseil d'Etat decree specifies certain exceptions and conditions under which local authorities, public-interest organizations and cultural bodies can obtain category A weapons outside the scope of public safety and national defense missions.

The decree also authorizes the possession of certain category A weapons for collector's purposes, under strict conditions which must comply with France's international commitments.

- Category B, subject to prefectoral authorization, mainly comprises handguns and certain semi-automatic long guns.

- The Granger rifle with lock belongs to category C, which covers weapons subject to declaration, such as shotguns and centerfire rifles.

- Lastly, category D covers weapons that are accessible under certain conditions, including reproductions of antique weapons and non-firearms.

Legal exceptions  

The French Internal Security Code also stipulates that the possession of weapons in categories A, B and C is prohibited for non-profit-making legal entities - with the current exception of sports associations that have received a delegation from the Minister of Sport (article L. 131-14 of the French Sports Code), and for associations whose statutory purpose is hunting.

Article L. 312-3 of the French Internal Security Code also specifies the offences that prohibit an individual from owning a category A, B or C firearm.

Legal obligations

At auctions, buyers of category B and C firearms must provide proof of identity and a valid hunting license, with its annual validation, or a sporting shooting license.

For category B weapons, you need to create an SIA (Système d'Information sur les Armes) account, and hold a medical certificate less than one month old, issued by a psychiatrist or a doctor designated by the French Internal Security Code. The application is then validated or rejected after an administrative inquiry.

Auctioneers, in collaboration with accredited experts, ensure compliance with regulations, guaranteeing rigorous traceability of the weapons sold and their conformity with legal requirements. 

Knowing the value of a Granger rifle

If you happen to own a Granger rifle from any period and would like to know its value, don't hesitate to request a free appraisal using the form on our website.

A member of our team of experts and certified auctioneers will contact you promptly to provide you with an estimate of the market value of your piece, as well as any relevant information about it.

If you want to sell your property, our specialists will also help you find alternatives to sell it at the best possible price, taking into account market trends.