I agree some H&H and Purdey's can be underwelming, but some can be spectacular. That is why I would prefer to purchase a new gun from stock then ordering one bespoke. You know exactly what your getting from stock. Years ago neither gunmaker would build for stock, both where bespoke gunmakers. They realized that most customers did not want to wait 2-3 years and the guns could easly be altered to fit the new owner. Both sell at least 50% of their new guns from stock today.

I would not want a cold reaction from a shop assistant to influnce me from purchasing the gun I wanted. They are not pushy salesmen, they can't be. There regular customers would not put up with it. Have you ever heard the saying the "butler is more regal then the King"? Don't worry about it. Walk in with your head high with confidence and ask the questions you want. Remember one thing -- the shop assistants can't afford to write that check.

Buy the gun you always wanted, if not you will not be happy.