Hi J.B. Grulla is on of the finest makers in Spain. They have a reputation of quality that's hard to beat. The top end guns are some of the best in the world. They are still a small shop where every gun is hand made and fitted. I think the average production is about 250 guns per year.
The company was formed in 1932 when some craftsman left Victor Sarasqueta to start their own firm. It was known as Union Armera. They made several different models, both BL and SL guns. These guns were not any of the cheap imports that everyone knows about that came over here. Their guns at that time where for the Spanish and european market (plus a few for over here). In 1983 the company was renamed Grulla and began to market their guns world wide.
I have a 12ga Union Armera 215E. It's a wonderful gun with great wood, wonderful engraving weighing in at 6lbs 4 oz. The internal parts are all gold plated. This is a quality gun!
Prices on good quality Spanish gus are on the rise so now is the time to buy. They are not cheap new also, starting out at about $7000 for the 209 (the basic model) and of course going up.
It's hard to rate the Spanish makers, but this is my take on the top quality makers:
1) Arrizabalaga
2) Garbi
3) Grulla
4) Arrieta
5) AyA
Of cousre this varies with the different models.
All I can say is I've never heard or seen a bad Grulla.
Good luck!!
Greg
