1906 William Read & Sons Catalogue

"Highest Quality" Wesley Richards with single trigger - $595
W.W. Greener "Imperial" - $500
W&C Scott "Premier" - $375
W&C Scott "Imperial Premier" - price on application
Purdey - 89 pounds 5 shillings sterling
"Highest Quality" sidelock ejector Joseph Lang & Son - 65 guineas
Parker Bros. AAHE - net price of $318.75
Lefever Optimus - $280
Remington Special - $750

Not listed but in 1908 the maker's suggested retail price
Parker A1 Special $525
Smith A3 $740
Smith A2 $400

These guns stand TOGETHER at the pinnacle of gunmaker's artistry, engineering, and function. Arguing superiority of one over another is entirely subjective, entertaining, occasionally nationalistically unpleasant AND SILLY.

Our current row started (again) because an occasional correspondent to this forum, who peddles English guns to Americans, thought it clever to issue a global put down of one American gunmaker.

Dr Jim and I have prepared an article which will appear in DGJ, the 'Farm Implement Grade Smiths', the gist of which is that no, an 00 Smith is no Purdey, had/has a stock design flaw, but did it's job on a farm in Neb. at the turn of the century, and can still be used and enjoyed long after the other farm implements have either worn out or been replaced by better tools.

No one made more effective tools for breaking clay targets at the traps than American makers 1895-1915. Times changed and as Larry said, many of the top guns went to Single Barrel Traps. And no one is in the GAH shoot off today using a Knick.

The most effective tool for harvesting waterfowl is probably an A5 or M11 with an extended magazine. That does not make it a best gun. Nor is a punt gun.

The most effective tool for rough shooting may be a British game gun.

The most effective tool at the pigeon ring today is likely an Italian OU.

Everyone has an opinion...which is just that...and should be supported by facts. But arrogance is hard to take.


Last edited by Drew Hause; 04/15/13 10:43 AM.