BETTER Than A .22? The PERFECT Small Game Gun?

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We all love .22 rifles, but is there another option? Before the turn of the 20th century small game were hunted with rifles called Garden Guns, or Rook & Rabbit Rifles. Rook Rifles are known for their elegance and sophisticated workmanship. They are small and fancy, and extremely collectible. I hope you enjoy my collection of Rook Rifles and perhaps find some inspiration of your own! If you enjoy the video consider subscribing and supporting the channel on Patreon or one of the other links below: / usog
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Music: www.bensound.com

[@briankerr4512]

I love that falling block

[@Fred-g6g]

I really enjoy your videos because of the old vintage guns that's gone forever now those old guns had a personality may God bless you

[@stephensmith4480]

Hey Mike. What Beautiful little Rifles, very elegantly made. That standard of workmanship costs a fortune these days. Stay safe..

[@eclectic3618]

Really elegant little rifles Sometimes something so simple Will hold more beauty Then something complicated and over engineered Love your videos Have a blessed day

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Perfect words and thank you. God Bless.

[@robrussell5911]

I'm a big fan of these old garden guns and have a few of them. One interesting rifle I have is an FN single shot in 9mm rf, made for the 9mm ball like the BB cap. It is fully rifled and very accurate when fed the proper ammunition, and surprisingly quiet to use. It's in near new condition despite being about one hundred years old. I guess ammo was never common enough for it to see much use on this side of the pond. NA that is. Thanks for the great video.

[@redsky8509]

you have the most fantastic rifles. so many different, so man special. thank you.

[@michaelmcatee221]

Thank you for sharing your beautiful collection!

[@CREvothegreater]

the poms make the best classic rifles & guns, fly reels & also the best classic cars...

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

It's true CRE - the poms, on their island(s) - seem to think a little differently. Things that are classic and last. Good things.

[@2bitmarketanarchist337]

My grandfather is rather fond 9f their motorcycles

[@LUVDOGS1954]

Tremendously interesting and educational as usual. Thank you sir.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you!

[@DonCrowder]

I very much enjoy your videos. I find them very informative. Thank you.

[@glennycarroll]

To think that if it hadn't been for the pandemic, we would not have been able to enjoy what might be one of my very favorite of your or anyone's videos. The concept of a sleek single shot in a moderate pistol caliber has always intrigued me. Most single shots I've found were either too crude or overkill. I've owned the Ruger No.1 in 6mm, but that's way more gun than I want for use in Illinois woods. I wish Ruger or someone would come out with a scaled down No.1. The Winchester Low Wall is the closest I've seen, but seldom is chambered in something as mild as 32 Long.

[@paddyrat69]

Reminds me of the old " Boys Rifle" that was made by Remington many years ago, chambered in several small-bore rounds. Very nice.

[@ashleysmith3106]

A lot of the European "Garden guns" which the English often called "Rook rifles" were in 5mm, 7mm and 9mm pinfire and later rimfire, and in their day I believe they were no less reliable than any other cartridge. The cartridges were offered either in "ball" or shot, and sometimes even "Flobert". However a lot of the European guns were proved for Black Powder, and even though some of them chamber a modern round they are NOT SAFE for smokeless cartridges !! (Don't use modern .32 c/f in European guns, and especially NOT modern .44 colt in the thin-walled 410 shotguns. However it's great to see these underrated guns getting some exposure - they're pretty common here in Australia, and I have a few in my collection. Thanks for the video!

[@highstandard343]

Thanks a lof for an excellent video. I am a big fan of old rook rifles and have been using an old German unmarked rifle for roedeer for years. My German rifle was originally a .22 but I have had it changed to 30.30 which makes it a bit more usable for hunting. This week I bought a Holland & Holland similar to yours from my gunsmith, who is also a rook rifle enthusiast, it needed some tlc and is still with him but I am so looking forward to get it back from him. It is in 6x60R which is an excellent "pencil" type cartridge. The problem with rook rifles is that they seem to multiply in the gun cabinet.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

😂😂...."multiply in the gun cabinet" Great idea - re-working into a 30-30 - the Rook rounds are so weak. I'll have to look up 6x60R - very interesting. Thanks for the note and good shooting!

[@highstandard343]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns No problem and good shooting to you too. The 6x60R is similar to the .243 in power but as it is rimmed it makes perfect sense in this type of rifles or drillings. Extraction always work and the construcion is very simple. I have a hammer drilling where the rifle barrel is in 9,3x72R and I really like the simplicy of the mechanism. As for the 9.3x72R it is a fairly big cartridge originally made for black powder but in the smokeless powder version it is very light in recoil and also excellent for roedeer.

[@fjkennedy]

Thanks for caring thanks for sharing. ❤ your videos. !

[@trapdoorspringfieldmodel1888]

While watching this video it got me to thinking about what classic American rifle reminded me of the Rook rifles you are showing, and it was an iconic Buffalo rifle that came to my mind. Now how does a Buffalo rifle remind me of a Rook rifle meant to shoot rabbits and other small quarry? The answer to such a question is the Remington Rolling Block Model 4. Thank you for sharing such delightful rifles, and congratulations on acquiring a Model 70 Super Grade.

[@annabeltheunicorn9374]

Liked to have seen you fire one or two of them especially the Holland and Holland, bet it grouped on a tanner

[@obbyjep7597]

Those would be very usefull around a farm, not overly loud but more power than a 22

[@creightonsmith5333]

I love the sleek lines and detail in the Holland and Holland. I grew up shooting a single shot .22LR and still hunt with a Ruger No1. 7X57. Too bad someone doesn't offer a rook style rifle in 22-250 or .243. Finally, you have many great rifles, are there several that are your favorites? Thanks for the great videos

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hello, I'd place your Ruger #1 in 7x57 on my favorites list - that's just about ideal. The BRNO 21, Tikka 65/55, Sako Finnbear etc... Winchester model 70 CRF, any proper Mauser 98 sporter - the Rigby sporters are tops - especially when they were plain. The Gevarm C1 .222. The Ruger Hawkeye is hard to beat. Any Savage 99. Of course the Winchester levers... ahhhh the list is long; but I tried : )

[@creightonsmith5333]

I also have a custom mid-length Peruvian Mauser in 7X57, a 30-06 FN custom stocked, and M70 pre-64 .270 custom stocked. I'm on a limited budget so I'm always selling/buying, sure wish I had held on to many. Cheers@@UnitedStatesOfGuns

[@notchagrandpa8875]

There's just something about the way the old single shot break barrel shotguns and rifles feel that isn't available on the modern market, whether it's the craftsmanship or the nostalgia of a time long past, most modern break barrel shotguns and rifles have a feeling of cheap build quality when you hold them,.whereas many of the old firearms that were taken care of or those used very little and thus remain tight have a certain elegance about them that just isn't available today.

[@jamesrickerby2756]

I have a rook rifle in its original calibrate it's a Morris cartridge 297/230. A very good friend of mine necked down another cartridge to .accept a .22 bullet, it's a a bottle shaped cartridge and centre fire, at this time I was very active reloading, and to find a suitable load was not hard but time consuming. I believe there is one other gun in UK with this calibre registered. The gun itself is beautiful and well made, by W PAPE of Newcastle Upon Tyne. These guns should be collected, but a object is only useful if it can be used for the reason it was built. I look at the Cutty Sark and think Should this not be used to train modern youth the joys of sailing etc.

[@jeffryrichardson9105]

Great History! 👍🏾😀❤️🇺🇸

[@lessharratt8719]

If that one can chamber 38 special it can probably shoot 357 magnum as well. Another "saucy" rifle.

[@joejohnson-ne2sg]

I owna revolverr in 32s&w long love the round hard to find.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Joe - Winchester does a run of the .32 S&W from time to time. When they appear I buy lots. If not - try these www.sellier-bellot.cz/en/products/pistol-and-revolver-ammunition/pistol-and-revolver-cartridges/detail/293/

[@hungryyeti2548]

Intriguing

[@jaydee1532]

Les Belges et les Anglais chassent la vermine avec classe (The Belge and the Britt hunt varmint with class )😁

[@Johnny-jr2lq]

@USOG I know this question is off topic but I can’t seem to get a answer from anyone. And I only ask you questions that I really need a qualified answer to cause I know you get so many. So hear goes nothing, I just picked up a beautiful Ruger security six 357 mag revolver it’s also a pre warning banner gun. And so I did the normal thing any gun guy or girl would do watch every video on KZbin about it. Now this is where I’m confused in spoof the videos people say you shouldn’t shoot a lot of 357 magnum out of it. I simply can’t understand that because every video I watched on it also said that the security six was built for 357 mag as that was the most common round for the police during the time. Is there any merit to what some of these people are saying. Also what is to much 357 mag how does someone keep track of such a thing. I truly hope you can help me with this I don’t want to destroy a true Survivor in such perfect shape do to my own ignorance. Thanks in advance but I’m sure I’ll respond if you shed some light on my question.

[@terryboehler5752]

Are you going to eat something. I just ate charlie's chicken leftovers

[@burnsboysaresoldiers]

why are they called rifles if they are technically smooth bores? Love to have one

[@burnsboysaresoldiers]

@Alice de Janze So would basically any single shot rimfire or small bore shotgun be called a rook rifle?

[@dondavis2546]

Is very beautiful

[@aksalaman4689]

Of all the gun channels I sub to, this and Paul's channel are my favorites. Thank-you.

[@northdakotaham1752]

Same here. Never miss one.

[@Johnny-jr2lq]

@USOG I know this question is off topic but I can’t seem to get a answer from anyone. And I only ask you questions that I really need a qualified answer to cause I know you get so many. So hear goes nothing, I just picked up a beautiful Ruger security six 357 mag revolver it’s also a pre warning banner gun. And so I did the normal thing any gun guy or girl would do watch every video on KZbin about it. Now this is where I’m confused in spoof the videos people say you shouldn’t shoot a lot of 357 magnum out of it. I simply can’t understand that because every video I watched on it also said that the security six was built for 357 mag as that was the most common round for the police during the time. Is there any merit to what some of these people are saying. Also what is to much 357 mag how does someone keep track of such a thing. I truly hope you can help me with this I don’t want to destroy a true Survivor in such perfect shape do to my own ignorance. Thanks in advance but I’m sure I’ll respond if you shed some light on my question.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Johnathen, Thanks for asking. By chance I'm quite familiar with the Security Six. The frame is quite strong. As you know Ruger deliberately uses more robust parts and assemblies. A couple of fellows I knew were range fixtures and must have fired thousands of .357 rounds and .38+P rounds with no issues. People wish that Ruger still made them. Here is a video that might help : kzbin.info/www/bejne/h6qQfHZsabujotk I go by what the manufacturer says. If Ruger built the gun for .357 Magnum and it is so stamped - that is what I use; or for more relaxed shooting I use .38 Special. People have all kinds of experiences and reach all kinds of conclusions - but one never knows exactly what happened or why - I stick with the manufacturer. You have a fantastic and scarce revolver and I would shoot .357 Magnum in it in a heartbeat. Good shooting and bravo on a great purchase.

[@Johnny-jr2lq]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns thanks you very much I appreciate your kindness and wisdom on this question that has been bothering me for about a week. I truly enjoy and appreciate all you do for the firearms community. I’ll definitely continue to watch all the content you produce.

[@michealfigueroa6325]

Single shot rifles are a favorite of mine and the rook rifle is at the top of the list. My meager resources make owning a rook rifle a dream. So I built a "Turkey Rifle": Stevens break action 410 shot gun fitted with a Nagant rifle barrel adapted to fire an assortment of 32 cal pistols rounds. No splinter forend but a rather unique beaver tail piece. On a whole a pleasant little single shot; as with adapting cartridges to fit old firearms where there is a will there is a way. I enjoy your videos Thanks

[@paulsimmons5726]

Mike, Just when I think I've got a handle on the firearms thing, you bring out a line of guns that show me I've still got more to learn. I've got an idea for a video - what gun model or style has thrown you the biggest curve ball over the years? There's got to be a half dozen guns that just stopped you in your tracks... I'd love to hear those stories in a video. Take care and be well.

[@fleghel]

I would love a video about that!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Will do Paul - thank you for the idea : )

[@hawknives]

Just found a Flobert rifle the other day at the local gun shop. It fits and fires a 357 magnum case, which I load like a small shotshell.

[@esquad5406]

Century arms has imported into the U.S. . A 8mm rimfire shotgun. A folding single like the Hatfield. It's not selling well. I think they are offering it with 1000 rounds trying to unload them.

[@CatsHaveCamerasInTheirEyes]

Do you have a link?

[@wizardofahhhs759]

I bought my son a Hatfield .410 for his first gun last Christmas and it's a fun little shotty to play with, .410 shells are so damn expensive though.

[@ApurtureSci]

Probably a 9mm Flobert, not 8mm? They're fairly popular in Europe still, I have a Chiappa Little Badger in 9mm Rimfire (and one in .22LR).

[@esquad5406]

@@ApurtureSci Your right. I miss spoke.

[@randyzwieg8467]

Man you bring back memories. I learned to shoot with single shot rifles one of which was a Stevens 32 rimfire. It's a shame CIL burned down. When I was a kid 32/20 and 25/20 m92s and m1894s were still used as tools for varmints and small game. Old "Gun Digest" copies have articles on rejuvenating rook rifles to take modern cartridges or modifying cases to suit old guns. Keep this up.

[@joehorridge9258]

The French use 9 mm and 14 mm shotguns ....they came from Europe and are still around !!

[@joelmorris60]

It's got to be like the rock island auction house around your house. You always have some magnificent firearms. I love the old guns.

[@greenjack1959l]

Beautiful little guns. I had a folding 410 Shotgun with a similar layout to the sidelever. It was light and handy and I loved it. I would have loved one of the rifles.

[@fleghel]

Man, I thought I know quite a bit about firearms, but every time I watch your videos I realise that I wish you would live forever(and be my uncle that I can come by and actually be allowed to touch some of them guns, under strict supervision, and while listening to your amazing seemingly endless knowledge about the masterpieces)....

[@flapwheat]

I purchased a modern (Chiappa) garden gun in 9mm Flobert for my best friend, as a token of appreciation for loaning me his trailer for a few months. I'd love to have a proper vintage model! Great video!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Those are very fine - and you're a great friend - to do that. BTW - I wrote Chiappa about a year ago suggesting they make a copy of a Rook rifle - the H&H actually. As it is - the Chiappa is wonderful. I usually don't hear back from the major manufacturers - but I send my ideas anyway. God Bless.

[@chadrichard6388]

Sad that such firearms are not common today .

[@ROE1300]

Exceptionally interesting episode. My 1st introduction to the Rook Rifle.

[@bobsradio6025]

At the beginning of the video you mentioned a "Garden Gun." That reminded me that Henry currently makes a smooth bore .22 RF LR lever action that they call their "Garden Gun." They have a video on their website that shows it will actually make a tighter pattern than .22 shot rounds will make with a rifled barrel. Perhaps that is somewhat like when Pontiac named one of their cars after a racing circuit in France, (Grand Prix.)

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Bob - I didn't know. For sure the rifling spins out the tiny .22 shot into a very broad and gappy pattern - I've tested before. The smooth bore .22 is a good idea that really works. On rate they move so quick even over bait that sometimes the .22 shot is the only way to go - at least for me - I'm just not quick enough.

[@deandeann1541]

Bob - In Great Britain today smoothbore .22's are still widely available and popular. They are still sold and known as garden guns and that is what they are for, they are used to protect gardens. They are easier to own than other guns as they are exempt from some of the onerous British gun laws. Henry calls their's a garden gun because that is exactly what it is.

[@Iceaxehikes]

The form reminds me of my Winchester model 58 Boys rifle; thin, light, simple. But of course so much more work went into these Rook rifles. The elegant simplicity of these are very attractive in an age of complexity and plastic. Henry makes a modern garden gun that is a smooth bore .22. I just wish they would smooth the finish on their barrels.

[@benjimenfranklin7173]

Wow I love it no plastic !

[@regsparkes6507]

Slightly off topic,..you mentioned "rook rifles " and I instantly thought of a rifle my Father gave me, oh so many years ago, it is called a 'rook file' and the makers name is 'W.R.Pape' as engraved on the receiver.It was a lever operated rifle w when the lever was opened a feed ramp/slide would allow loading of the breech, one cartridge at a time, obviously. I don't have, nor can I find ( here in Canada ) and ammunition for it. From the box of ammunition I did have the caliber was 25-27 centerfire. Have you heard of this make and caliber of rifle before? Now, I wrote this comment/question within the first 3 minutes of your video, so I imagine it's not really that far off topic, is it?

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Reg - Nice rifle - I think I had one. Mine was based on the miniature Martini action and the cartridge was 297/250 Rook - I found a way to use .25 ACP in mine. Maybe your rifle is for a different cartridge. Maybe this link will help www.rifleman.org.uk/Westley_Richards_miniature_rifles.html Feel free to send a pic to me at [e-mail] I'll get back to you. I wish you all the best.

[@geraldswain3259]

W r Pape was a very famous quality British gunmaker, right up with the best .He entered in many trials competitions against the likes of H@H ,WW Greener ,Purdey etc held by the Famous Field magazine .This magazine is still published to this this day , I believe it still holds the title of longest unbroken publication in the U K .I can highly recommend you treat yourself to one . They are a monthly quality publication . PS .my best wishes to the Colony's ,regards from old Blighty .

[@regsparkes6507]

@@geraldswain3259 Actually, my W.R.Pape Rook rifle was bought in Newfoundland long before it became a province of Canada, prior to that we flew the Union Jack here. So Greetings back at you 'brother'. Oh, thanks for the information on Pape.

[@geraldswain3259]

@@regsparkes6507 Hi Reg ,thanks for the reply ,much appreciated !..may I suggest if you are interested , to invest in a second hand copy off the the net of WW Greener's book title The Gun , it is a fabulous book on English gunmakers crammed with information , One can be purchased very cheaply in a 5th or 6th editition. If you read it you will soon realise the British were responsible for 95% of the patents on the modern shotgun as we know it today . Regards from old Blighty .

[@wholeNwon]

Pape was a very famous maker of "best" guns of the highest quality. He is sometimes credited with the invention of choke boring but that is not correct. I think that he had the first British patent for choke boring but the concept and use are much older.

[@robertpage4123]

Another great video, you have an Amazing collection, i so love the old and quirky guns!! I know you say your no expert? But you sure know a lot. Stay safe.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you Robert - I am encouraged by your words. God Bless.

[@fleghel]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns ...and I guess it all depends on the definition, but I wouldn’t hesitate to refer to you with that word- expert. Definitely way more knowledge about guns than anyone I know. Still hope to (one day) see a video of the whole collection... not sure it’s a good idea with the world we live in, but man! you seemingly keep on pulling new guns from that “modest” collection for every video! I hope your wife does never finds out the real amount of money is “invested” in those amazing toys. Love your knowledge and thank you for sharing!

[@dinoquintana4319]

I always enjoy your excellent videos.i own a modern rook rifle.the Henry single shot in 357 magnum. The rifle is much more accurate than I am.wonderful workmanship and premium wood and bluing .at first I was afraid to take it out hunting. It's that beautiful. I didn't buy it to be a safe queen.i. shoot it as often as I can.mainly with 38 specials .it may only be my rifle but full power 357 lead wadcuutters do not lead my barrel.the only complaint I have with this magnificent rifle is the weight. I'm sure Henry uses the same profile on all its single shots.45 to 357 .another heavier for the357.having seen the barrels on your rook rifles I don't feel bad.that H&H must weigh a bit.anyway thank you for your excellent videos and I will soon be able to be a patreon member of yours.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hello Dino - Great post - thank you. I'll look for a Henry in .357 - I didn't know they made the SS in .357/.38 - I have one in .243 and it is superb as well. I appreciate your kind words!

[@robertloban3809]

I love that falling block!

[@danielcoe2072]

Its called a rolling block and if its 410 ga its a shotgun not a rifle i have about 13 of them in diff gauges

[@davidsauls9542]

Old Martini Cadet actions make a very handsome rook rifle. A gunsmith in St. Louis just finished one for me in 25-20 with half octogen, love it! Thank you for all the work you do!

[@flintrichards945]

These are very nice little rifles hunting with them is a very interesting thing to do it takes us back to a different time.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Flint. Amazing what the past holds. These are so unique. Stay safe.

[@michaelguerin56]

Thank you for a great video. I bought the 1992 Gun Digest when it came out and have read that article many times. The rook rifles have intrigued me since then but miniature shotguns seem to be more common in my area.

[@robbieandbeckie]

By coincidence, i just very recently picked up my first garden gun. It is an Anchutz in 9mm Glatt rimfire. A single shot bolt action with quite an interesting method of extraction. I believe it is less than 4 pounds. Pawn shop find.

[@philippefrater2000]

I would have an heart attack just by visiting your collection Sir... 🖖🏻🇫🇷😎🇫🇷😇🇫🇷🖖🏻

[@mattdirks7896]

That 223 is gorgeous!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Matt - one of my best without a doubt.

[@jiveturkey9993]

Looks like Browning sort of styled their 22 semi-automatic after those rifles.

[@426superbee4]

Stick with the MILITARY ROUNDS AMMO. Get into those off brands, cost a lot of money to shoot. Hard to fine! and there not that great! A lot of people don't like the 30 carbine I LOVE EM ! GR8 RIFLE ! and the M 14 another gr8 rifle in the 308 round i prefer the 308 round over 30 06 REASON? less kick and more accurate. longer range ! While the 30 06 flips more, with more Knock down power ~ Not a very accurate round over long distance it drops a lot at 300 yrds ~ The 308 is a gr8 sniper round > 308 M1 Garand gr8 RIFLE

[@AlexCausey]

I personally prefer the Falling Blocks..! Great Action..!

[@melvyndavies9455]

Reading reference, The Gun and its development, W.W. Greener. Ninth edition of 1910. Page670. Rook and Rabbit Rifles. Bore charts including powder and bullet loading. Read through to page 674. Hope the information will be of use. UK Grumpy Geriatric.

[@jamesdietz6899]

Those small single shot, falling block or break open rifles are so simple yet elegant. I guess the Ruger No. 1 is a relative.

[@bryanmartin2271]

Very Nice i have 2 Flobert 22s at the gun smith now one has a raised block with carved forearm the other the block thumbs back i think older with a plain stock looking for 22 shorts for it many thanks for sharing your knowledge

[@detroitredneckdetroitredne6674]

Great video brother thank you for your knowledge and expertise I am a new subscriber and I look forward to gleaning over your knowledge and expertise 🎚🇺🇲👍

[@corniezacharias4617]

Your videos are such a wonderful treat! Thankyou sir for another.

[@robinbrown473]

Enjoyed your video about Rook rifles, I bought my first rifle in 1960 a Westley Richards Sherwood rook rifle originally in 300 Sherwood cartridge but when I bought it it had changed to .22 rimfire with a tube up the barrel. It is a martini action and in good condition and after looking at your video I must get it out and start shooting it again .

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Robin - I tried to buy a Sherwood in near mint condition : what a fine rifle - but the seller changed his mind; which was a good decision. In .22 you're good to go any time and the handling and class are all still there - great buy BTW. All the best to you and good shooting!

[@garysmith9818]

So, it basically filled the niche that a .410 would today? Only more elegant...

[@normanmallory2055]

Nice rifles for sure .. I have to admit in my 76 years i have never seen one at a gun show or local gun shop .. No shooter showed up at the local range with one either .. I'm not certain when i first heard the term Rook rifle but it was a long time ago, in the 60's i think ..Now i'm going to have to look and see if in fact i can find one .. Thanks this was well done ...

[@annabeltheunicorn9374]

You would have to be a very rich man to buy some of those old rook rifles new, especially the Holland. Of course the first firearms act of 1927 was the beginning of the end for any bullet gun in the uk. When you needed a police firearms certificate just to own one and a suitable place to use it. The suitability being written permission and a saftey inspection by the police. This is more or less is how uk law is now. I dont think we would be allowed to collect them as antiques as they fire availble ammuition. Thats why you should fight for your second amendment. Just look across the pond to see what could happen if you do not. God bless the Usa

[@regsparkes6507]

I just found that the book Cartridges of the World is available here in Canada too, therefore I will be ordering it as soon as I can now. Thanks for the great video,.always so informative and sometimes surprising, as this one is,... to me at least :)

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I'm so glad Reg. As always, I wish you the very best.

[@regsparkes6507]

@@UnitedStatesOfGunsThank you,.very much!

[@erichuntter2437]

Hi there, that 1st rook rifle your showing there, I have on just like that , in really good condition and am not joking i payed £75 for last year

[@davidgendron1953]

Interest you said!! For sure!! Beautiful elegant and well made light rifles!! Too bad that no ones is making them now a day and affordable would be great!! That Martini is sure one amazing looking rifle, a dream rifle for sure!!!

[@Fred-g6g]

Marlon made a rook rifle or a garden gun it was a 22 single shot with no rifling it had a bead front sight

[@samhannington281]

I've got a rook rifle that's been bored out to .410 shotgun as many were. It's not due to the lack of ammunition, it's because of changes in gun laws starting around 1920 which made it harder to own a rifle, but shotguns were still unrestricted here in the UK until the 70s

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks for the note; now we know. I just bought a "Rook" .410 - still waiting for it to arrive. I have a few - very light and must have been nice as rifles.

[@christopherkingsland4604]

The Martin Mini - cool - Ruger No 1's little brother ?

[@JKLynar]

Another great video! Do you have Colin Greenwood's book "Rook and Rabbit Rifles"in your library? Very good reference, plus a great chapter on ammo options. God bless you for sharing all your cool stuff, and experience, with a broad range of world wide watchers! Keep up the great work!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you J.K - I don't have Greenwood's book - but I used to; I'll find one again. Thanks for your kind words - they mean a lot to me. All the best to you!

[@Thundarr995]

Someone should do a hunting small game with big guns video.🤣🐀

[@reallyreally3629]

The British HBSA (Historical Breechloading Smallarms Association) still run several Rook and Rabbit competitions each year where many of these lovely old rifles are fired by enthusiasts. Most, if not all the ammunition is loaded by hand due to being obsolete. Check out their website, great group of ladies and gentlemen.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you RR - Wonderful association - thanks for the message www.hbsa-uk.org/

[@timfarmer5439]

Burtram in Australia make brass for the 300 Rook & possibly the 300 Sherwood, excellent opportunity to get these wonderful old guns running again

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Tim - thanks for this - I'll contact them or head down there once the bug is gone. Cheers.

[@dalanwanbdiska6542]

Im going to trade my original goose gun 12 gauge for a older stevens 24 22 / 410 over under combo gun. I ordered a selector switch kit for 40 $ and a iron sights and ramp for 10 $ from a good website . It has good wood on the gun and the blueing is really deep blue and looks awsome. Its not too heavy and has the open switch right behind the hammer. It works good still even tho the selector button is just a bolt and nut , i can fix that with the parts i ordered. I got alot of stingers i could use out of this cool little shotgun 22. Has 3 inch chambers for 410. Its a really cool little gun.

[@brandonritchey484]

I just bought a 1962 savage 24 in 22mag 410..shoots great..its gonna get some use for small game an turkey

[@qhazwel]

I was just watching an episode of Hercule Poirot. The rook rifle was used to conceal the murder.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Very interesting Will - I'll look for the movie - thanks for the note

[@jimrowland6089]

Those are all very nice. I always liked the simplicity of the little single shots that were kept near the back door at the farms I visited with my dad when I was a kid. Seemed like everyone had one handy just in case something needed dispatching. My great grandfather was partial to .22 Hornet and thought .32 Long Colt was getting too hard to find. When he got into his 80s I think he chased off antique dealers more than crows or rabbits.

[@flavortown3781]

A company makes a 357 1911, they sell 38 spl mags and springs to convert it for practice, I'd rather like a little bolt gun in 38

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Me too - one of the best rifles I own for fun shooting is the Ruger 77 .357 - fantastic. I use .38 Special in it and it feeds and ejects - no problem.

[@jonnyjones4347]

About 20 years ago I saw a pistol version of a rook rifle, in 410 calibre that was handed in for destruction under one of the UK’s firearm ‘amnesties’ . It was a beautiful piece with a fine finish, and such a sad waste of craftsmanship and tradition.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you Jonny - that must have been a special gun - I wish I could find one. Sad how things are going. A single shot .410 antique fit for a museum : destroyed. I can't find the sense in it.

[@SmiTTyy-sh8nc]

Wow, what a wealth of knowledge, I'm so pleased I found your channel !!

[@pauls466]

How about the 9mm flobert rim . for varmin and rabbits

[@Stigstigster]

What a fantastic subject and it's good of you to share this part of your collection with us. That Holland & Holland could fairly be described as a Masterpiece I think. All of them are nice in their own ways of course. I was not very familiar with the larger calibre versions and didn't realise the type was so relatively common "back in the day" having only really heard about (and seen a couple of examples) the guns that fire Flobert cartridges, those being popular in the UK for pest control around farms and barns and I think there will still be a few farmers around still using them for that purpose, with the air rifle having mostly filled that role these days. A lovely video and presentation, as always. Thanks.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you! These are in a class of their own and are extraordinarily fine to handle, own and shoot. I wish H&H started making them again - I told them they would be surprised how many people would buy. Rooks are so shootable - and don't require Africa or anything fancy. All the best.

[@paulfewings2688]

Learning More Each Time... Bless

[@bowhunter2439]

sweet

[@frankf7858]

What bueatful guns your sharing today. Thank you

[@justinkeller9187]

I just found this video and absolutely love the rifles. I've been refurbishing some Stevens crackshot 16 and favorites. I really appreciate these guns but haven't found any like yours. I'll keep my eyes open for them. Thanks for posting

[@stevenhall9349]

Are used to own a Smith and Wesson 32 S&W It was a pistol, and I sure wish I would’ve kept it

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Those are sweet to own and shoot - hope you get another!

[@k1j2f30]

Beautiful, elegant and wonderful little rifles, those Rook/garden guns are! I can remember many times hearing my dad say "they just don't make um like they used to!"Now, 70 years later, I couldn't agree more, the materials, the craftsmanship and the artists/craftsmen who made those firearms, are far and few between! My suggestion is, if you have any of these type of beautiful firearms, is to "hold on to them tightly, and never ever sell them!" Pass them down in your family, or gift them to a younger person you know will cherish and appreciate them as you do! Take them out of the gun safe and pamper, clean/protect them, and slobber over them often, and do not hesitate to use them, as they were intended to be shot....and loved!

[@426superbee4]

My 1st real gun was a shotgun 20 ga. single shot break I LOVE THAT GUIN ! In shotguns i dearly love the breaks in single and double barrels and pumps, in rifles and pistols, semi automatics in rifles, and automatic and revolvers in pistols > I dearly love my Derringers to ! The Davis .22 mag and in the 38 round ~ They have never misfired or jammed ~ Automatics and lever action jams to much for me ~ I would choose a bolt action over automatic and lever action

[@426superbee4]

My 1st real gun was a shotgun 20 ga. single shot break I LOVE THAT GUIN ! In shotguns i dearly love the breaks in single and double barrels and pumps, in rifles and pistols, semi automatics in rifles, and automatic and revolvers in pistols > I dearly love my Derringers to ! The Davis .22 mag and in the 38 round ~ Automatics and lever action jams to much for me ~ I would choose a bolt action over automatic and lever action

[@smartacus88]

I started out with a Daisy Red Ryder. Next came a H&R single shot 410 purchased at Kmart for $50 bucks when I was 9. Then came a Marlin model 60 from grandpa when I was 12. Then came a Savage Springfield 20ga pump, and an ancient single shot Winchester bolt action 22 that was gained in trade for a 5hp Briggs and Stratton engine. When I was 16 I got my 1st job, and then I purchased my 1st rifle with my own money. A pawn shop special Marlin 336 in 30-30 Win. Many have came and went since then, and unfortunately I don't own any of the aforementioned guns anymore due to circumstances beyond my control. My current acquisitions are nicer and more expensive than any of my 1st firearms, but none of them bring me the same pride of ownership as those guns that made a shooter out of me.

[@timvest8141]

Nice video. Beautiful rifles . Love the falling block.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Tim - and that little rifle really is astonishing.

[@tomritter493]

Fantastic video ... only had an opportunity to fire one once . If have too books you'd love . One is a complete works of 22 cal . And 22 cal digest ..

[@forge20]

.223 not a rook cartridge? You clearly have not seen the guy in New Zealand taking crows with a .223 from 600 yds. Perfect. Nice little guns.

[@johnndavis7647]

These small game and pest control rifles generally used rimmed revolver rounds. At first they were rim-fire but later were made in center-fire. A few like the Marlin-Ballard had reversible firing pins on the hammer So they could accept either kinds of ammo. I have one in 38 Long which was the round that converted 1851 Colt revolvers used. First in rim-fires then later in centerfire. Colt had a factory in London so his 32,38 and 44 conversion ammo was quite popular in rabbit and rook rifles. I am working on making 38 long ammo using 38 Spl cases and .380 Colt bullets from an Eras Gone bullet molds.

[@burnsboysaresoldiers]

USOG, little random, ever had a .500 or .450 Black powder express? Just finished reading a book about Jim Corbett and the Champawat man-eater. The .500BPE seems to be a great efficient cartridge for even deer and bear.