Sauer Royal Side-by-Side Shotgun Review — Models, Specs, Price, Hunting Use & Accessories

Sauer Royal Side-by-Side Shotgun Review — Models, Specs, Price, Hunting Use & Accessories The Sauer Royal is a premium side-by-side shotgun crafted by J.P. Sauer & Sohn, Germany’s oldest hunting firearm manufacturer. This article offers a comprehensive review of its design, variants, calibers, performance, pricing, accessories, and real-world feedback from hunters and sport shooters. --- Table of Contents Sauer Royal Side-by-Side Shotgun 1. Introduction to Sauer Royal 2. Design and Craftsmanship 3. Available Variants and Modifications 4. Technical Specifications 5. Caliber Options and Barrel Lengths 6. Effective Range and Hunting Applications 7. Pricing and Market Position 8. Chokes and Accessories 9. User Reviews: Pros and Cons 10. Why Shooters Choose Sauer Royal 11. Historical and Collector Value 12. Final Thoughts --- 1. Introduction to Sauer Royal The Sauer Royal is a classic side-by-side (SxS) shotgun designed for discerning hunters and collectors who value traditional craftsmanship, mechanical precision, and timeless aesthetics. Manufactured in Germany by J.P. Sauer & Sohn, the Royal model represents the pinnacle of Sauer’s smoothbore offerings, combining elegance with field-ready performance. The Sauer Royal shotgun was introduced in the late 1960s as part of J.P. Sauer & Sohn’s premium side-by-side lineup, designed to embody the pinnacle of German craftsmanship in smoothbore hunting arms. Emerging during a period when traditional double-barrel shotguns were still favored by European hunters, the Royal was positioned above the S330 and S240 models, offering superior wood selection, hand engraving, and refined mechanical fit. --- 2. Design and Craftsmanship The Sauer Royal is renowned for its hand-fitted components, fine walnut stocks, and engraved steel receivers. Each shotgun is assembled with meticulous attention to detail, often featuring case-hardened finishes, scroll engraving, and oil-finished woodwork. The balance and handling are optimized for instinctive shooting, making it ideal for upland game and clay sports. --- 3. Available Variants and Modifications While the Sauer Royal is no longer in active production, several variants were released over its lifespan: • Sauer Royal Standard — classic field model with blued receiver and Grade 2 walnut • Sauer Royal Luxus — upgraded wood and hand engraving • Sauer Royal Meisterstück — limited edition with deep relief engraving and exhibition-grade walnut • Sauer Royal Diana — lightweight version with shorter stock for female shooters • Custom Shop Editions — bespoke configurations with personalized engraving and stock dimensions --- 4. Technical Specifications • Type: Side-by-side shotgun • Action: Break-action, double-barrel • Caliber: 12 gauge (most common), also available in 16 and 20 gauge • Chamber: 70mm (2¾”) or 76mm (3”) depending on variant • Barrel Lengths: 26”, 28”, 30” • Weight: ~2.9–3.3 kg depending on wood and barrel length • Trigger: Double trigger (some variants with single selective trigger) • Safety: Manual tang safety • Sights: Brass bead front sight • Stock: Straight English or Prince of Wales grip, oil-finished walnut • Fore-end: Splinter or beavertail depending on model --- 5. Caliber Options and Barrel Lengths The Sauer Royal was primarily chambered in 12 gauge, with select models available in 16 and 20 gauge. Barrel lengths varied by intended use: • 26” barrels — fast handling for upland birds • 28” barrels — balanced for general hunting • 30” barrels — preferred for sporting clays and longer shots --- 6. Effective Range and Hunting Applications • Birdshot: Effective up to 35–40 meters • Buckshot: Up to 50 meters • Slug (rarely used in SxS): Up to 70 meters with open choke Typical game hunted with Sauer Royal: • Pheasant • Partridge • Grouse • Duck • Hare • Fox (with buckshot) --- 7. Pricing and Market Position As of 2025, the used market for Sauer Royal shotguns shows: • Standard model (95–100% condition): $850–$1,135 USD A • Luxus/Meisterstück editions: $1,500–$3,000+ USD depending on engraving and wood grade • Collector-grade or custom shop: $4,000+ USD These prices reflect the shotgun’s collectible status, German craftsmanship, and limited availability. --- 8. Chokes and Accessories • Fixed chokes: Most models feature fixed chokes (typically IC/M or M/F) • Custom choke boring: Some gunsmiths offer aftermarket modification • Accessories:• Leather case or canvas slip • Snap caps • Cleaning rods and kits • Recoil pads (aftermarket) • Sling swivels (rarely used on SxS) --- 9. User Reviews: Pros and Cons Pros: • Exceptional build quality and finish • Smooth trigger pull and crisp break • Balanced and responsive handling • Elegant aesthetics and engraving • Reliable in field conditions Cons: • No interchangeable chokes (fixed only) • Limited availability and spare parts • Heavier than modern alloy-frame shotguns • Not ideal for high-volume clay shooting --- 10. Why Shooters Choose Sauer Royal Hunters and collectors choose the Sauer Royal for its heritage, durability, and timeless appeal. It’s a shotgun that feels alive in the hands — responsive, elegant, and built to last generations. For those who appreciate traditional side-by-side mechanics, the Royal is a benchmark of quality. --- 11. Historical and Collector Value • Produced during Sauer’s golden era of smoothbore guns • Often stamped with Suhl or Eckernförde proof marks • Some models feature engraved game scenes and gold inlays • Increasingly rare on the secondary market, especially in pristine condition • Highly sought after by European collectors and vintage shotgun enthusiasts --- 12. Final Thoughts The Sauer Royal side-by-side shotgun is more than a hunting tool — it’s a piece of German gunmaking history. Whether you’re walking the fields for pheasant or admiring it in a display case, the Royal delivers on craftsmanship, performance, and legacy.