PURDEY'S: THE GUNS AND THE FAMILY. By Richard Beaumont.

(1984) 1991 reprint. Large 8vo (160 x 240mm). Pp248. Colour and b/w photographs, illustrations, decorative endpapers. Black cloth, spine titled in gilt.

"James Purdey and Sons Ltd. Gun and Rifle Makers of South Audley Street, London, is a truly remarkable firm. For 170 years Purdey's has built a limited number of 'best' guns and, since 1814 when James Purdey I opened his first shop just off Leicester Square, the name of Purdey has become synonymous with quality throughout the shooting world. ...Purdey's influence on the shooting world was, and still is, impressive; former customers include Charles Darwin, Queen Victoria, Nikita Khrushchev, the Czars of Russia, W.G. Grace, Bing Crosby, and the great shots of the Edwardian era such as Lord Ripon and Lord Walsingham. The craftsmen are not forgotten, either, and there are detailed accounts of how the guns were (and still are) built, and of life in the factory. ...This fascinating book, the result of the present Chairman's meticulous research into the firm's records, ledgers, letters and agreements, brings to life the colourful characters of the five generations of the Purdey family and follows the fortunes of the firm from 1814 to the present day". * This sixth impression of 1991 has the words "Sixth Impression" printed on the front panel of the dust-wrapper.