4 Best Quintessential London Gunmakers

Published on March 17, 2020
Duration: 16:43

This video explores the 'Big Four' quintessential London gunmakers: Purdey, Boss & Co, Holland & Holland, and James Woodward & Sons, highlighting their distinct house styles in engraving and mechanical actions like the Beesley patent self-opening system. It emphasizes that barrel condition, specifically wall thickness above .022 inches, is the primary value driver for second-hand guns, with entry-level prices for sidelocks starting around £3,500. The historical impact of world wars and economic shifts on the market is also discussed, alongside the provenance of specific pieces.

Quick Summary

When buying a second-hand London gun, the most critical factor is barrel condition, with original barrels ideally having a wall thickness above .022 inches. While thinner barrels may still be shootable, they significantly decrease the firearm's lifespan and market value.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Big Four London Gunmakers
  2. 01:18Distinct House Styles: Engraving & Design
  3. 02:55Mechanical Innovations: Actions & Patents
  4. 06:29Buying Second-Hand: Barrel Condition Matters
  5. 08:55Historical Impact & Provenance
  6. 12:50Market Entry & Value of Vintage Guns

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the four quintessential London gunmakers discussed?

The video highlights James Purdey & Sons, Boss & Co, Holland & Holland, and James Woodward & Sons as the quintessential London gunmakers, representing the zenith of English gunmaking.

What is the most important factor when buying a second-hand London gun at auction?

The primary value driver for second-hand London guns is barrel condition, specifically original barrels with a wall thickness ideally above .022 inches. Thinner barrels significantly reduce the gun's lifespan and value.

How do the actions of Purdey, Boss, and Holland & Holland shotguns differ?

Purdey typically uses the Beesley patent self-opening system. Boss & Co and Holland & Holland generally employ 'easy-opening' or assisted-opening systems, where the force comes from the ejector work.

What is the starting price range for a second-hand English sidelock shotgun at auction?

Entry-level prices for a used English sidelock shotgun at auction typically start around £3,500 to £4,000, depending heavily on the condition of the barrels.

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