About

Ugartechea shotguns are renowned for their blend of classic craftsmanship, refined aesthetics, and reliable performance, making them highly regarded among aficionados of traditional double-barrel firearms. Handcrafted in Eibar, the heart of Spain’s Basque gunmaking region, these shotguns have been produced by Armas Ugartechea since the early 20th century. The company earned a reputation for producing affordable but high-quality side-by-side and over-under shotguns that rivaled more expensive British models in both form and function.

Design and Construction
Ugartechea shotguns are best known for their elegant side-by-side configurations, though some models exist in over-under styles. Most feature boxlock or sidelock actions, with the latter being more intricate and desirable due to their classic appearance and smoother operation. The sidelock versions are often compared to high-end English doubles and are favored by collectors and upland bird hunters.

These shotguns typically include:

Case-hardened or coin-finished receivers, sometimes hand-engraved with scroll, game scenes, or floral patterns.
Double triggers, though some later models include single selective triggers.
Manual or automatic safeties, depending on the model.
Ejectors or extractors, also model-dependent.
Oil-finished walnut stocks, often with hand-checkering and a straight English or semi-pistol grip.
The barrels are generally chrome-lined, blued, and made from high-quality steel. Barrel lengths vary, typically between 26 and 30 inches, and are often choked for field or game shooting.

Models and Variants
Ugartechea produced a variety of models over the decades. Key models include:

Model 30/Model 35 – Entry-level boxlocks, often with modest engraving but excellent build quality.
Model 100/Model 103 – Mid-tier sidelock doubles with better wood and more engraving.
Model 257/Model 275 – High-grade sidelocks with extensive hand engraving, fine walnut, and polished internal components.
Model 75 EX, 40 EX
Model 116, Model 119
Model 2000
Grade I, II, III, IV (as labeled for American imports) – Varying in quality of finish, engraving, and wood selection.

Reputation and Legacy
Ugartechea’s reputation stems from its ability to offer bespoke or semi-custom firearms at a fraction of the cost of their British or Italian counterparts. While not as lavishly finished as a Purdey or Holland & Holland, Ugartechea guns have long been praised for their durability, traditional styling, and excellent balance in the field.

The factory closed around 2015, making existing Ugartechea shotguns increasingly sought-after on the used market. Many owners value them as working heirlooms—functional and elegant tools for wingshooting and sporting clays, often passed down through generations.

Summary
In sum, Ugartechea shotguns are a reflection of old-world gunmaking traditions—blending practicality with artistry. They are especially prized by traditionalists who appreciate the handling qualities and understated beauty of a fine Spanish double gun. Whether used in the field or displayed as a collector’s piece, Ugartechea shotguns continue to hold their own as enduring symbols of craftsmanship and sporting heritage.