SHOOTING IMPRESSIONS

There are few things I enjoy more than shooting a gun in the company of Holland & Holland’s chief instructor, Chris Bird. We have similar ideas on shooting technique and our conversations combined with actual shooting of great guns – often made by his firm – are always memorable. These Royals attracted my attention initially because they are of a vintage and form I admire. Happily, the one I shot with Chris, the No 2 gun (on a rather grim day weather-wise) was superb. Its 30in

barrels made it pointable, a slightly rearwards balance allowed it to remain lively, and there was sufficient weight to maintain momentum in the swing and ensure comfortable felt recoil. Clever and ergonomically efficient stock shapes were part of the most desirable package.

It was so impressive that I am now looking for a similar single gun. These test Royals define the best London gun

in its golden era.