The Greatest Guns on Earth

[@rupertmcnaughtdavis7302]

My grandfather bought his shotgun from Westley Richards in 1908 when he was studying at Cambridge University from South Africa. It left the family in 1937 and after 70 years was returned.It now belongs to my eldest son,the original owners great grandson.It is a sidelock.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

That's an amazing return! Would be great to hear how that all came about - 70 years! - that's almost a note in a bottle. Hope I can see a picture one day.

[@AmerAhmad]

Its fascinating to think today that a student, albeit reading at Cambridge and perhaps as a corollary well heeled, chose a best English gun for himself. Bravo. I should have thought that being an African he would have chosen a double rifle. You must give details dear sir. Maybe its a story similar to the other great South African Mr. Woolf Barnato, the proverbial Bentley Boy, though I dont think he was as well educated as your worthy ancestor. A WR could not be much cheaper than a Purdey or Joseph Manton. Was there a long chase to the re ownership of the gun or it chanced by. Also family opinion about the family member who sold it in the first place. I think only the original buyer had that right. Amer Ahmad Lahore Pakistan.

[@robertshinenne1584]

This channel should have more subscribers than just 2.4k...simply the best educative gun channel that I have subscribed here on youtube. Great work!!!

[@jaydee1532]

They said the British rifles and guns have a distinctive personality, I tend to totally agree with that.

[@453421abcdefg12345]

What an oasis of calm and good sense your channel is in this day of plastic and stainless steel things. A funny quote from a well known London gunmaker, when asked how long his guns would last , he replied" We do not know, we have only been making them since 1893".One other aspect of the sidelock system is the that back action lock affords a lot of extra strength to the wrist of the stock, this is often an overlooked advantage. Many thanks for posting! Chris B.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hello EF - Such a fine quote. Sometimes I would visit the London shops simply to hear the people speak; such measured words and calm and thoughtful too. I always felt at home. : )

[@skipmole612]

In my opinion, one of the major disadvantages of a sidelock gun is that a substantial amount of wood is removed from the stock to inlet the locks, thereby considerably weakening the stock between the action and wrist. Sidelock guns are often encountered with stocks cracked at this point, whereas boxlocks rarely fail.

[@453421abcdefg12345]

@@skipmole612 This "disadvantage" should be considered a distinct "advantage" if you think about the Selous plates on a heavy rifle they were put there, in place of the green Elephant ear skin, to strengthen the wrist of the stock, not for recoil, but for protection from breakage in a fall, the sidelock, if correctly inlet, considerably strengthens the thin wrist of the stock under normal use, as the area is enclosed in steel, the top tang, trigger plate, and sidelocks, especially if a back action lock is fitted form an interlocking ring of steel at the thinnest part of the stock, a box lock has no such steel enclosure.

[@peterfeltham8065]

Very educational,and well presented by this gentleman.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Peter!

[@davidfenwick9577]

I have a w.w.greener 16 gauge sxs made in 1893. It a masterpiece of a gun and in pristine origional condition and also have a westley richards boxlock sxs which i mainly use and it is such a pleasure to use and i shoot well with the westley which was made in 1928.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi David - two gems; the Greener especially - so hard to find in high condition. I'm glad you have 2 of the best.

[@ronlafitte6864]

Mike, in my opinion, there are no firearms that even approach the beauty of a side by side double. They are wonderful and I wish I owned a hundred of them. I think the sidelock models with straight stocks are more beautiful but I love all models. The ones I own are very nice quality but are nowhere near the worth of the British gems. I learned to shoot with a side by side as a young boy and I will always love and respect them. There is just something about a cold November morning when you uncase that double in preparedness for a quail hunt...........

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Golden words. An early morning start in the uplands with a SXS is one of the finest hunting experiences of all. Any experience actually.

[@mattalex543]

I will probably never own a firearms of such quality, but it sure is very interesting listening to your thoughts on them.

[@annabeltheunicorn9374]

Nor will ninty nine point nine percent of us guys here in the uk lol

[@georgesheffield1580]

A best gun is built to fit you and to do what you ask it to do . The finish is just the icing on the cake .

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I like that

[@219garry]

It's like the handkerchief, some are for showin' and some are for blowin'

[@jeromenv]

I really do very much appreciate your indepth and expert knowledge on the British masterpieces. I always remember my dad constantly saying that the best shotguns and rifles came from England so now I know why. Thanks again cause your knowledge on the subject is so valuable to us. I do hope one day that I will get the opportunity to own at least one of these works of art. Also, I would like to comment on all those who have who constantly say that these firearms are very expensive. Well I would like to respond to that by saying that they are not expensive but are more value able. Would one walk into the showroom of a Ferrari, Bentley, Rolls-Royce or Bugatti and say that they are too expensive?

[@3ducs]

A friend has several/many fine English shotguns, a joy to examine. But many fine guns were made in America back in the late 1800s, early 1900s. I have a few, a Purdy DH, an Ithaca grade 4, beautifully crafted in all respects. A LGS has a Churchill, three barrel set in a fine custom set, best gun quality, beautiful. These guns are artwork that can sometimes be bought for relatively low prices.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

That is a very good point. I had a brilliant Colt SXS for a few years and there are others as you point out. I'll have to find some and film. Thanks for writing.

[@kentuckyjustice1408]

I personally have no interest in purchasing such a firearm. But in our world of "black guns" and "tacticool" platforms, I can't help but to appreciate these classic firearms for the fine works of art that they are. The individual craftsmanship and attention to detail that is evident in these firearms is an art, in and of itself. Our current assembly line "slap it together" gun manufacturers in the U.S. (and abroad), can learn something from these artisans. It would make quite a difference in quality control, or the lack thereof.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

All good points Kentucky Justice - not that you need to hear that from me - but well put. Quality and care make a difference.

[@jimrowland6089]

British shooting and shotguns are living art. When everything is hand made by a skilled craftsman it changes everything about guns and shooting. I used to think a ZZ bird mobile range would be a fun investment to travel around with and host some of those shoots at different shotgun ranges. Now sporting clays seem to be the most popular option for a shooting weekend. I am lucky enough to have a club near me that has a tower hunt available a few times a year.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

You have a great life Jim ! - the sporting clays part is fantastic....I have to drive for hours. I did okay at SC - the few times I tried; a little confusing at first and I don't know if the rules and shots are the same. I guess it depends what the field is like. Anyway, any shooting is great shooting. All the best to you my friend.

[@mikemoore9757]

This is just a simple question for you, but would happen to have enough inventory in your vault to make a presentation on high grade .22 rim fire target or sporter rifles? They have always been my favorites.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Mike, Good suggestion; I don't have many super fine .22 sporters but I will make a video shortly.

[@hantusmostert]

Going to built a cinema with 🍿 machine and put your videos and also therealgunsmith's videos on repeat.

[@worldtraveler930]

Your statement regarding english made guns I'm fairly certain has Angered the majority of the population of the people of Austria, Switzerland and Belgium!!! 🤠👍

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks for letting me know. I had not thought of that. By nature I would not anticipate such anger. I am only one man with an opinion. For example, if someone said or wrote that my channel is the worst on KZbin - it would not occur to me to be angry; I would be happy to hear their opinion. I should mention that the top gunmakers in Germany, Switzerland, Belgium, the USA and other countries... and Austria produce incredibly fine firearms (as everyone knows) and many are indistinguishable from the English "best" guns and others follow the more Germanic style. The other day I was handling a Hartmann & Weiss Mauser 98 - the owner didn't say what it was at first; I thought it was a Rigby 😂 Anyway, with some luck, the sun will rise tomorrow. All the best to you.

[@worldtraveler930]

​@UnitedStatesOfGuns Please understand that I have Always enjoyed your channel and Videography I was merely pointing out that I do have friends in the afore mentioned countries who can be quickly Riled when anyone disparages their gun culture or skills in manufacture especially Switzerland being the home of William Tell!!! 🤠👍

[@sheamartin911]

I just bought a Pedersoli Old English 12 gauge black powder muzzleloader. I feel like I got the best of both worlds, it’s an Italian reproduction of an English shotgun.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Great purchase - you're right!

[@adrianlarkins7259]

Thank you so much for saying British instead of English. So many Americans say English or England when it should be British or Britain.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Adrian - thanks for noticing; I have full respect for the Realm : )

[@fatmanscoop8650]

If they were made in Birmingham or London they're English. The Scottish don't describe a good single malt from the highlands as being Brittish Whisky do they?... Britain is Britian but the countries that make it up are countries in their own right.

[@Cravin009]

Excellent video as always. You have renewed my interest in firearms through the insight and knowledge you are so willing to share. As I watched this video the topic of gun fitting came to mind and I wondered if you could share your thoughts on that topic for fine guns as well as the much less expensive models that frequent most gun store racks. Thanks again.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you for your kind words. Out of necessity the factories compromise - as you likely know - and provide stock dimensions which are good for many and excellent for very few. Nothing beats the British way of fitting with try stocks and so on. Sadly not everyone can do that so for most people it is a matter of heading to a gun store and shouldering various rifles and seeing which "feels" best. This is not a very reliable way to fit a gun but it is practical. Shotguns are even more tricky to fit as the shot is made without rifle style aiming, so accuracy at moving targets is in large measure a result of stock fit. I've seen it many times: put the right stock in the hands of almost any shooter and their hit percentage goes up - usually dramatically. For them - it seems like magic - but it is just the stock.

[@michaelbarret1147]

Great video, thank you for sharing these beautiful guns! You have a great collection. Not all guns are black tactical rifles.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Michael - I have a few of those as well. Actually, very interesting in their own right and superb machines.

[@thakurnileshprakashsingh]

British guns are of great quality,I have a Westley Richards boxlock shotgun.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hello Nilesh - There is something about Westley Richards; maybe it is because I've owned a few and with one, a Westley Richards Lee Takedown - I hunted for years. A completely instinctive .303 - I don't remember aiming really - the deer just fell; and I must have harvested at least 12 with that rifle.

[@roeng1368]

Excellent video as always. Lovely guns and no mistake. The guns of the midlands city of birmingham were probably just as good as the london makers, westley richards, greener, bonehill etc. I believe a lot of the london guns were actually made in birmingham and were sent to london unstocked and unfinished, to be completed by the lobdon trade. I would love you to do a video on rigby sometime, as they started in my home town of dublin.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I agree - you're correct - I heard the same from a couple of the London makers themselves. I'll get to those Rigbys - I'm a little slow as I'm looking for more to show. A friend had to have my .275 takedown and years ago - my .416 as well. I'll find some of their doubles for the channel. I hope to visit Dublin - Christ Church Cathedral among other places.

[@roeng1368]

Sadly there are no gunmakers, or gunshops even, left in Dublin city.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I think in the mad rush of progress we've lost a lot. If only we could have the advantages of technology without losing our souls. Or maybe I go to far. Anyway, I had a lovely Rook rifle made in Cork. The only "Made in Ireland" gun I ever owned and it was a gem.

[@jeanmorin3247]

You would not draw much pleasure of having this kind of gun if you did not belong to the society that uses them. A 'locker queen' is a conversation piece that never talks... Thank you for the interesting and very informative presentation. Always a pleasure.

[@wholeNwon]

As an aficionado of double guns for more decades than I care to remember, I enjoyed your discussion. Though many British guns are truly impressive for a variety of reasons, few realize that they are usually based of French designs and patents. One of the great tragedies is that huge numbers of great guns were destroyed by the Germans when they conquered France in the last world war. The French were by far the greatest innovators in double gun design from before the time of Henri IV. British guns often require more attention from gunsmiths as the years pass than do guns from other countries. If I were to give a first place award to a modern maker it would be to Fabbri for design, precision of construction and metallurgy. Among the British, probably Thomas Boss. Here, again, the company became most famous for their trunion design for barrel pivoting in superposed guns. This was also a French design from 20+ years earlier. Beretta uses it, of course, and produces guns that are far more trouble-free than most all others of the type, though I'm not partial to monobloc barrels. They also maintain their own metallurgy lab. I don't even know where Purdey obtains their barrel blanks, perhaps you do.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I appreciate your comments! I once owned a black powder rifle made by one of the gunmakers to Napoleon or maybe "the" gunmaker - it came with provenance and being a young man at the time, I did the totally foolish thing and sold it for a small profit. If I had only realized the value of what had fallen into my hands! Oh well. I've been trying to remember the name - I can't find it on the web - I think it was something like D'Visme - but I could be way off. It was one of the finest pieces I had ever seen. You make great points though and the French were advanced - even in the matter of rifling - which Napoleon saw the benefit of. Still, the whole parade at the time was slowed and skewed by black powder and yout are right - it probably is a consequence of a whole sequence of historical twists and turns that the British houses ended up so apparently high on the gunmaking ladder. I wish I knew more about French guns - they are hard to find even now. I had Darnes and Verney-Carron and a couple of others - very well made and unique styling. I don't know where Purdey buys anything; I actually know little about where any of the British gunmakers source their part etc... Sadly, my collecting is mostly based on the appeal and quality of certain guns; I'm reminded of some of my wine collecting friends. One fellow knows everything about grapes and places and soils and chemistry; vintages and even the names of the people that were making the wines and tending to the grapes at various times etc... another gentleman just buys all kinds of wines based on their appeal and reputation and what he thinks and feels. I'm something like that. Hope to hear from you again. All the best.

[@wholeNwon]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns Unfortunately I can't be of help in identifying your lost masterpiece. But surely someone else is enjoying it...at least one would hope so. Many gunmakers failed to survive the revolution either economically or with their lives. The younger Boutet did, of course, and made masterpieces for Napoleon I and La Page continued. Hardly a museum collection in the world lacks a Boutet and the ones that do must long for examples. I have a cased set of pistols in their style but sadly not by them. As for BP, I'm sure you remember when great guns by the very finest makers could be had for very small fractions of the cost of modern examples simply because they required BP cartridges. Wish I had had more money then. Today I often see people who are shooting modern shotguns of all types with their bodies contorted over the stocks to bring their eyes in alignment with the barrels. One need not do that when shooting British or continental guns (or most older U.S. guns) from the BP era when stocks with more drop at the heel and comb were the norm. Those guns came up much more naturally and tended to point where the shooter was looking. If the stock had been properly fitted, they pointed exactly where the shooter was looking when in a comfortable position. Our forefathers, who shot a LOT (often far too much) of game knew what they were doing.

[@senseibo4401]

I know where they get their blanks from but I’m not telling.

[@mrvertigo23]

Great comments and insights - really enjoyed that. (Subscribed)

[@patrickcrowe1611]

that side lock has a beautiful stock

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Yes - for sure a gem. Cheers

[@apeman2987]

Great videos. Very knowledgeable. Ever get a chance to cover the British BPE Cape Guns would surely like to see that...

[@idleonlooker1078]

British guns are "over priced" because they are hand-made, NOT mass produced and churned out like sausages. The precision and attention to detail of a H&H, Purdey or Rigby (UK) etc, produce exquisite and beautiful functional firearms that are simply without equal. Period.

[@pauldavidson6321]

The figure on that stock is superb, well worth the price.

[@jisung8384]

I still think the Model 21 Winchester is up there with the best. Yes the WR, H&H, and the Purdy, are exquisite guns, but the Model 21 has a special place in my heart.

[@percyolivas1128]

really handmade beautiful shotguns

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Percy - Remarkable - the work that goes into these.

[@JoachimderZweite]

My Grandfather did not go out and by guns he just sent a letter to his gunmaker in London who had his measurements telling him what he wanted and a year of so later the guns would arrive. He also sent guns to be repaired to the same gunmaker. My Grandfather died before The War but even back then his collection was worth a fortune and he traded them for four blocks of flats and a mansion on Sir Zafar Ali Road in Lahore.. He also had a Mauser Pistol given to him by my Great Grandmother who used to hunt lions with it from horseback with Rhodesian Ridgebacks in British East Africa. The government confiscated it after the War. I suppose this means nothing to your viewers and is just a lot of BS. That world is gone but the guns are still around.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Amazing! This means a lot! Please email me at [e-mail] This kind of history is very interesting to me and ought to be written about - which is what I would like to do. Look forward to hearing from you.

[@aaronbuckmaster7063]

I’ve always liked a well formed steel but plate. I have always wanted to go to Great Britain and see the locations mentioned but also to see Buckmaster Castle and learn about my family heritage. Lord Buckmaster of WWII and everything I can.

[@MegaBoilermaker]

You would be very welcome Aaron.

[@avocado9763]

Wow! Its another world. Very good. Thanks

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

That's a good way to put it Don : )

[@Bodacious468]

Hey USOG, newer viewer here. Do you think we will ever see a full collection video from you?

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hello, If I can improve the studio and filming I may give it a try. I'm a little slow at advancing with the filming improvements but fortunately my audience is forgiving and patient so far. Thanks for joining me and us here at USOG.

[@satwik180]

Dear sir. The reason why webly and Scott has no butt pad is because the stock design was made before the butt pads were invented or used to the guns. Or since the webly's doesn't have a through bolt to hold action with the stock so there was no need to add a recoil pad to it. If webly's had a through bolt then just to cover it a recoil pad was necessary . Regards Sathvik

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Sathvik! Now I know. Thank you so much. What amazes me is how fine and complete the shotgun is - without any butt plate or recoil pad. I remember seeing the leather slip on pads in London - for people who understandably wanted some relief from recoil, and I suppose leaning the gun against a tree or placing the wood against a hard surface might deface the wooden butt plate. Anyway, empires and colonialism aside - they made and still make great guns. All the best to you Sathvik.

[@kjetilvaarlund8342]

No English gun would have a fastening bolt through the stock, that is a modern solution on cheaper guns. Butt pads has been around for more than a humdred years, but was often added to the gun later either to save the shooter from recoil or to lenghten the stock for a new owner with longer arms.

[@gregwalker4236]

wow, rarified air here. beauty, art, evolution before the age of computer control and mass production. almost priceless now. mere millionaires probably cannot justify this acquisition because parting with one prior to shedding the mortal coil would be unthinkable. an heir that appreciates (really appreciates) is fundamentally required. gifting these pieces is the ultimate way to respect these remarkable works...

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Fine words Greg! The best.

[@garaldtao1801]

I have a Holland and Holland side lock and feel that some of its value is derived from that fact that the company is viewed as a boutique manufacture. I also have a higher end Beretta with grade four wood, deep engraving and a fit finish that is equal to, if not better than my Holland and Holland. But Berretta is consider a commercial manufacturer and the value of what I consider a comparable guns is half that of a Holland and Holland. I guess it is the perception of supply vs demand even though the number of higher end guns produced by Beretta is no greater than some of the boutique gun makers. I do however feel like I am in an exclusive club owning a Holland and Holland and not so much with my Beretta. The power of marketing I guess. Another great video.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Perfect words Gerald. The other makers may try but no one will catch up those British big names: Holland & Holland, Boss, Rigby, Westley Richards, Purdey and so on. Whether warranted or not, those "Biritish Bests" command the highest prices and are of historical and lasting artistic and technical value. I'm glad you have an H&H sidelock - superb.

[@Gunners_Mate_Guns]

Those shotguns take the term "investment" to a whole new level.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

So true. I wish they were easier to find and...less expensive.

[@JohnDavidHays]

These are products of the first wave of true globalization, and would not have been possible without high-skilled/low wage workforce and a world-wide clientele. This is a recurrent theme of Niall Fergusson’s history/commentary books such as “The Pity of War: Explaining World War I” I collect 19th century British chess sets and their coherence and cogency are astonishing the more you look at their variety.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Chess! My favorite game; some say the only game worth playing. Anyway - I'll look into those 19th century sets - very interesting. I'll find the book as well. Many thanks!

[@markwilliams9876]

Great content as per usual..just the case alone tells you a lot ..

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Mark - You're right - everything about these guns speaks care and class.

[@oakridgeboy2023]

Gun Ferrari love it

[@annabeltheunicorn9374]

Hi enjoyed your vidio on best English shotguns. Perhaps next time you might mention the reason for matched pairs. The british tradition of driven game where a loader is required might throw light on the matter. With your praise of our best guns i am surprised you have not have invitation to a nice five hundred bird day in Norfolk

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Good point! Thank you for mentioning - hopefully everyone will read your post. One day I'll make it to Norfolk. Thank you for the thought. All the best to you.

[@Hungrybird474]

Dad has an original pre 80 s m16 . What’s it worth fully auto ?

[@monooo5918]

This guns are dream , beautiful video sir 👍👍👍

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you!

[@monooo5918]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns 👍👍👍

[@zoesdada8923]

The only time something is overpriced is when there is no one who will pay the sticker price.

[@bobgarr6246]

I do agree that British gun makers are at the pinnacle of the gun makers art. However, one must be honest about it. This only pertains to pivot barrel firearms - side by side and double barrel shotguns and double rifles, period. The wonderful Rigby rifles are really just German manufactured 98 Mausers that the British gun makers restocked, finished, chambered, tuned and embellished. But they did not make or design them. There are very, very few firearms of note in the pump action, lever action, semi auto shotgun or rifle category, or rimfire of any action type. There have been some like the Martini, and the Artic Warfare bolt sniper rifle and such, but they are few and far between. So let's give credit to the British for their excellence in pivot barrel gun making. But be honest that it pretty much stops there. It has been a long time since we have seen the likes of W.W Greener and Joseph Manton

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Bob, Good comment. I have the Rigby .416 on the table and a couple of other British rifles by Westley Richards and so on; I'll study them a little more to see what's what as compared to the other makers from Europe and elsewhere. Thanks for taking the time to write and explain.

[@markmueller9436]

Just curious, what does USOG stand for? Are you based in Canada?

[@tylarhaugan7908]

Hey usog do you have your c&r License

[@psobecke]

I looked at getting a Purdey double rifle... started at $218k-US 2 years ago

[@219garry]

Or you could buy a couple rental homes cash and get 2400 a month rent. LOL

[@psobecke]

@@219garry I already have those...

[@understandingtruth10]

If you say, "what have you," one more time awwwwwwwwww

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Marshall, Sorry about that. I've learned a lot about "one take, no editing" filming. Sometimes I repeat myself. Just human. : )

[@understandingtruth10]

Hey Brother no big deal, I really enjoy your gun videos. There are not many out others like you today with good taste in firearms. I have many WWI and WWII rifles myself, keep up the great videos. If you ever were able to do a video on sporterized military rifles I would really enjoy that. Sometimes I prefer a properly done sporter over an original. They make great hunting rifles. Anyways about that previous comment I watched about ten of you videos that night and heard you say it in almost all of them lol. It make you unique, I am for Dallas Texas and have not heard that one before.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Marshall - it's all good. I smiled when I read your comment. I am full of flaws and try hard to do the best I can - and be the best I can; but the teacup although intact - has some cracks. I love Texas - a great, great state and a people that another time in history would comprise their own country; such a fine culture. Please keep in touch.

[@stephenkutney9626]

Could you comment on the drop ad heel of the sidelock shotgun? I think it is interesting and I would think that it would be hard to mount the gun quickly in grouse brush. I understand the guns are pre-mounted when the drivers are pushing the pheasants in the UK. What is it like shooting skeet or sporting clay's with these guns?

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hello Stephen -Thank you for asking. I am in transit and will measure and check and get back to you when I return. I must say, I often shoot with guns that have too much drop at comb or heel for me. I often get "stuck" for a moment in my shoulder - and miss....again : ) I rarely change anything on stocks - mainly because I don't mind missing now and then and I would feel badly changing anything on those great guns. As for skeet and clay's and the brush - if I really want to hit something I use my old Winchester 101 - not that it is a fabulous shotgun - although it may well be - but I shoot well with it; although the field always has a better shot than I.

[@kjetilvaarlund8342]

If the gun fit you it will work great on sporting clays, I use a 1915 Purdey Selfopener with 31" barrels at the range.

[@stephenkutney9626]

I have a Winchester 101 with a straight stock. It's a great gun for skeet or game.

[@DogsandDoubles]

Great video. Thanks for sharing. From another lover of vintage SXS and OU shotguns.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Greggory - then you know how great these are! The handling is second to none.

[@notrophyhuntersallowed4231]

Mate got a sparrow gun chambered in 155mm sometimes I feel a bit light on

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

...must have run off to do some shooting : )

[@lauraferro1678]

I would like to see a video on Mannlicher Schoenauer!!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Laura, I only have a box of Mannlicher Schoenauer actions for now; hoping to have a rifle built soon; or I'll buy one. Great suggestion! I'll get to it.

[@lauraferro1678]

Thank you for your fast response. My name is Santiago, Laura is my wife...hahaha I am using her username on youtube. I live in Argentina , I have a little collection of MS. A model 1952 in 9,3X62, a model MC in 6,5x68 and another in 8X68S ( my favorite) and a model GK in 7x57. All with set trigger an claw mount system. I use them all for hunting ....and have never failed. The magnums don't like handloads so much..... Hope to see your wisdom about MS in a video soon!!!! Thanks!!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hello Satiago, Your 8x68 is a gem. I looked for one for years. I hope to have a .264 Win. Mag. MS soon. Thank you for writing!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Greetings Santiago - I picked up the MS .264 Win. Mag. today - as fine a rifle as was ever made. I'll be in studio tomorrow - will credit you.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hello Santiago! I filmed the first Patreon video on the Mannlicher Schoenauer. I acknowledge you and thank you for the suggestion and for your messages. All the best!

[@dredelcottcryptozooligist4101]

Are the shotguns by SKB and Mirouku a decent buy? I know theyre not even in the same league, but just curious as to your opinion as a collector. Thanks

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi - I have not talked about SKB - fantastic shotguns; the SXS and O/U are world class. Miroku is one of the world's best firearms manufacturers and are contract manufacturers for Winchester and others. The Ithaca/SKB O/U is a bargain on the market right now.

[@dredelcottcryptozooligist4101]

USOG thanks for the insight. Trying to put some nicer guns in my safe and my marriage intact....not an easy task.

[@Chriskelly19067]

Off topic do you have any greener gp deluxe 12 gauge martini falling block style? I'm really interested in those! Hard to come by here.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

That is a nice gun - had one - it was rusty but still interesting; I'd buy a fine condition one in a heartbeat; none on hand now though : (

[@rupertmcnaughtdavis7302]

Quite common in South Africa.

[@ivarara]

Firearms design and sewing machine design or production, is there a relation? well one could argue on both sides. But what I am getting to is Ugartecha in the Basque land (some would say Spain), they made elegant and rather expensive shotguns there, but the factory also for some time produced sewing machines (a patented Singer 14 or 15 licensed by Singer). The sewing machine production was mainly to provide general homes or families with one of the most labor saving machine that had been invented and one of the most genius machine or tool that mankind made (thread spinning and specially weaving machines were also quite important) i.e. the sewing machine, but the meaning of the sewing machine has almost been neglected or overseen by history. What I am getting at is a statement "The lever action mechanism perfected by Browning, and the sewing machine design such made, so that an affordable sewing machine could be produced for most general homes, are outstanding designs, now more that century old desings, and note, that in China this sewing machine is still produced and Brownings Auto 5 semi automatic shotgun was produce almost for one century. ... Now, the other point I wanted to mention is that although British shotgun makers have made or produced excellent shotguns, then all of what is called Roman nations, Italy, Spain, Belgium (not Roman though, but there Browning had his revolutionary Auto 5 produced in Fabrique de la National in Herstal), Portugal and France also make quite good shotguns and the basques too. .... The rifle makers of Europa were Germans who also planted the know how of rifle making in former Czechoslovakia (BRNO and present CZ) (historically connected to Germany (Austro-Hungarian Empire prior to WW1)) later the knowhow swept or leaked over to Finland and Sweden, but also existed in Great Britain.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hello Ivar - I used to watch how the sewing machines worked as if they were revelation. I like the Pfaff machines - the treadle and hand crank - electric machines were fine too. When possible I removed or cut holes in the housings to see how the inner working ran. The bobbin and related assemblies - and the thread itself - were constant challenges. You are correct - the sewing machine is so easily forgotten and yet the mechanical models may well be one of the highest achievements of the pre-computer human condition. The spread of German technology included the "seeding" you mentioned - and that never stopped - from cars to rockets. My linguistics professor friend used to tell me it is something in the way the German language works that triggers scientific thinking and mechanical brilliance. Who knows - but Germany is the source of many of the greatest innovations - by any measure - especially guns; but many other areas as well. Krupp and steel are another brilliance. Browning captured the essence of gunmaking - practical and true; yet one invention - Paul Mauser's - seeded everything that followed. The latest M4 is only an overly complicated, gas operated , turn bolt Mauser - hidden in black polymers and much else. Cut the gas system off and one has a straight pull bolt. Pull the return spring and weld on a bolt handle to turn - and one has a .223, magazine fed - Mauser - less the claw extractor. I used to collect Spanish shotguns and many are works of art. I did have two or three that split in the water table though and testing disclosed that the steel was too soft - little or no heat treatment. I'm sure these were exceptions. Still, one remembers.... The A5 is another revelation and still my favorite semi-auto. As for the Czech Republic and Finland and Sweden - Argentina too and others , they have taken their own fantastic directions; the dispersed German Mauser factories, know how and personnel - were part of the seeding no doubt though. Thank you for your thoughtful reflections. People wondered about me - buying sewing machines in thrift stores. I could not understand how something so incredible, so astonishing and useful - could sell for $20. - only because the passing masses had no idea what was right next to them. Life... : )

[@MegaRiffraff]

I would love to have a double rifle someday but every time I get a little money saved something always comes up .

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

You'll get one - just a matter of time - was the same for me for years.

[@andrewshilton]

You have a rather odd view of british gunmaking. The 19th century was the time of the industrial revolution and the Empire was still strong . Gun making in the UK at this time was probably more innovative , and prolific than anywhere else. Most of the major developments that are still in use today were developed and perfected in Britain during that time. Beesley invented a self opening sidelock - the sidelock itself evolved from the old hammer guns, with various makers coming up with differing mechanisms. T. Bland mainly built lower grade guns, not 'best' guns - a top grade sidelock would have had intercepting safety sears.With regard to the butt of the stock, a 'best' grade gun would be built to fit the owner, and may or may not have a horn , or metal , plate, or plates. A leather 'boot' is generally used to extend a stock that is too short, or provide a recoil pad if too heavy a load is being used, or the gun does not fit properly. In my 45+ years involvement in british shotgun shooting I cannot recall seeing a leather boot used on an English gun in the field.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you for taking the time to write andy s - informative post. I miss collecting only the British doubles - such quality and surprising variety. All the best and good shooting : )

[@senseibo4401]

I’ve seen a couple of rubber ones put on a pair of Purdeys. Looked horrendous!

[@bruceinnawoods3610]

Does it feel at all daunting or uncomfortable handling such valuable guns?

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Well, you know, there is something to it. I can't say uncomfortable. I had to pause to think on your question. It is as if one is shaking hands with the past, with the makers, the owners, the designers and the ideas - without meeting any of them. That probably sounds silly, but it is something like that. Good question.

[@andrewbobro3374]

The French are the most disconnected from anything mainstream when it comes to arms IMO.

[@AbdulRahman-ym4lf]

Price plz

[@justinschmidt4692]

I have enjoyed your videos, but now you stepped into my favorite area. Shotguns seem to bring out the collector in people. I tell people who want an English shotgun that on the used market there are deals. I have a Greener that was in terrible shape and therefore very affordable. Replace stock and reblue metal, and a fine firearm. It is no Boss but it is English. I have always thought Birmingham firearms are not given proper respest. Plus, a lot of London firearms are built with Birmingham parts. How about American shotguns? Will we be seeing any from the vault?

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Justin, Excellent comments - due to current trends there are fantastic buys right now. Greeners are very fine - I had a 10 Ga. damascus awhile ago. I agree about the Birmingham makers - so much so that I try not to differentiate between London and Birmingham guns - they are all from the Kingdom. I realize I do talk about London a lot - only because I don't know Birmingham well. I'll try to cover more ground. Thank you Justin.

[@justinschmidt4692]

Two good books I found helpful, you seem to be one who likes books, Hammer Guns by Hadoke and The British Boxkock Gun and Rifle by same author. Published in the last five years. Thanks again I know to make a video is work with no pay. I appreciate your work.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Books are almost everything! I'll look for the Boxlock gun. You know Justin, I spoke to a half dozen people this AM and the British guns are so superior, so historic and encompass everything a collector and shooter could want. There are things people know about UK guns I could never imagine - the work, thought and discipline in them. I learn every day. I have to find a way to reach more gun people to let them know. On a different note, one fellow told me the high prices pay for a lot of tea sipping; I think these guns are undervalued - the tea is free. My Westley Richards Ovundo was a masterpiece - sadly sold now - and every single one; even the more humble ones are in a league of their own.

[@geraldswain3259]

Hi, Thomas Bland was mostly famous for his wildfowling big bore shotguns and double rifles . Giving a high quality and good value product,but was never considered to be in the premier league , such as the like of purdey Hollands Lancaster Churchill and William Evans etc . PS. Love these videos, great work. Regards.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Gerald, I didn't know that - the sidelock in the video handles and functions along with the best - yet I know what you mean - I don't see Bland on those top tier lists. Thanks for your support - means a lot to me - so many collectors around the world preserving history, firearms and art, among other things, through guns - in a way.

[@kjetilvaarlund8342]

Top Tier: Boss & Co, Purdey, H & H and Woodward Second tier consist of quite a few makers, like Grant, Atkin, Lang, WR and numerous others. Evans was a bit of a trickster, not a gunmaker himself, but had guns built in Birmingham and sold from his London shop.

[@wileyfox4984]

I just inherited a T Murcott shotgun I can't find much information about it . Any help?

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Wiley, Usually the Murcotts are nice. I had a couple - from memory : one was a damascus barreled hammer 12 gauge and the other was a more conventional 12 gauge hammerless with a nicely shaped lever under the trigger guard that one pushes forward to unlock and the barrels tipped down. Very well made guns and someone showed me a revolver made by Murcott as well. The now more famous Greener company bought Murcott at some point - my collector friend said 1878. Murcott seemed to be active into the 1800s - 1850-1978 roughly. The model collectors like a lot is unofficially called the "mousetrap" - I handled more than one - they had the lever release under or "around" the trigger guard and beautifully sculpted frames and a nice "Lock" lever on top. I like that model as well - but never found one at a decent price. I'm not sure which model you inherited - but they are all interesting and have value; a fine item to inherit.

[@wileyfox4984]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns thankyou for the information, this one is a hammer gun with Damascus barrels the serial number is 5419 it's in used condition but still in the original box

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

You have a real value there - finding an original box is about impossible

[@wileyfox4984]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns thanks for your input , I emailed Greener and they want pictures to help further identify the gun it's probably made around 1865 by the sound of it

[@markletts8802]

👏😊

[@BloodiedYetUnbowed]

I do think that British guns are quite substantially overpriced. I really like the new Rigby Highland Stalker rifle, but it doesn't seem that much better of a rifle than a new Winchester 70 Super Grade.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I agree with you. The Win. may even be better.

[@BloodiedYetUnbowed]

​@@UnitedStatesOfGuns I love your channel by the way, just discovered it recently. You should do a review of the Rigby Highland Stalker and perhaps a comparison to the Model 70 Super Grade. The Highland Stalker seems like a fantastic rifle, but I'd like to see what the actual differences are between it and the 70 are and what the possible justification for the costs of the Rigby is. These rifles are both CRF with essentially a Mauser 98 action.

[@mattalex543]

Clearly this man has never seen a Hi-Point.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hahaha - I like that! Cheers

[@iMetalMatt]

When did the guy from papa johns start doing gun reviews

[@kathireshgun9087]

Show the gun properly bro

[@jbuckley2546]

The greatest guns but one of the worse syrups I've ever seen.

[@mikeokeefe2014]

Your video was uniquely boring....on a fantastic gun.....

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Mike, Sorry about that. Thanks for the note and I'll try to improve.

[@chrisdelacruz4486]

You should loose the hair piece. You will be more confident. What are you hanging on to. Nice video.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Chris, Thank you for writing. Once I was in a restaurant and a fellow was looking at me on and off most of the evening. I thought maybe he has an old friend or had seen me somewhere. After dinner I was getting my coat at the coat room and and he approached me and gently told me that my hair piece was falling off all evening. I thanked him and said I appreciate the concern and thanked him for letting me know but I must have the worst hair cut or hair style as I have no hair piece. Anyway - it's all just me - not a single strand from anywhere else. Your advice is wonderful though and if all my hair should fall out one day, I will be glad to be as God made me. : )

[@KINGSOWN100]

+USOG Hhahaha! What a fabulous reply!😂

[@BloodiedYetUnbowed]

​@@UnitedStatesOfGuns You're such a noble man. A guy who donsn't even know the difference between "loose" and "lose" was trying to insult you and you didn't make any reference to this in your response. So I just did it for you :)

[@paulmoss7940]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns I'm dead(thats kidspeak for laugh til I died}:)

[@sakkieviljoen9533]

best guns is from USA end of story

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I like that; a clear opinion. : )

[@jeromenv]

No friçkin way. The US Gunsmiths can't even get close. I will agree that US gun makers are good but the British gun makers are the absolute best and have been so for hundreds of years.

[@hermannrexroth6489]

German and Austian guns are fine too

[@senseibo4401]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns A clear opinion but not necessarily a correct one.

[@kjetilvaarlund8342]

Right….time to cork that bottle of moonshine?