Traditionally based in Scotland, the MacNab idea has since been expanded to other territories and extended to encompass other species native to the locality. Thus, it is possible to go for an African MacNab (a brace of sand grouse, a tiger fish and an impala) or a Southern MacNab (a couple of snipe, a sea trout and a roe buck), among other variations on the theme.
This year, Westley Richards proudly sponsored the centennial MacNab Challenge (1925-2025) promoted by The Field to revive enthusiasm for this most sporting test of mettle, which requires a range of competencies be displayed on the river-bank, on the hill and amongst the heather. Casting, stalking and wing-shooting, under pressure from time and the elements, truly exposes a sportsman’s weaknesses or allows his skills to shine.
The result of a year of planning and exertion, success and frustration, exhilaration and disappointment, led to a most memorable dinner at London’s Saville Club, on 5th February 2026, where twenty beaming MacNabbers met in black-tie to enjoy a fine meal and re-tell the stories of their successful foray with rod, rifle and gun.
The evening saw around sixty guests with a great deal in common, re-living their exploits and enjoying the company of those who had also met the challenge. Dozens of others had tried and failed. For some it was a first attempt, for most the pinnacle of a quest that had ended in failure on multiple previous occasions.
Feature in The Field - April 2026
Among the attendees were representatives of the three teams brought to Scotland by American outfitter Delaney & Sons in search of a MacNab, a surprising number of whom were successful at the first attempt.
"Westley Richards was represented at the dinner by creative Director Stephen Humphries, who reflected on a hugely successful and entertaining evening, which helped a diverse group of MacNabbers bond and form friendships over their common cause."
Westley Richards remains committed to supporting The Field MacNab Challenge and we are all looking forward to the 2026 event. It supports sporting tourism in Scotland, which aids conservation efforts and promotes appreciation for the incredible and unique Scottish countryside, its hills, moors and rivers.
For those hoping to try for a 2026 MacNab, booking early with your estate of choice is advised. You will need a bit of luck, a lot of effort and some good advice from your stalker and ghillie.
We think the ultimate Westley Richards MacNab would be to seek out a vintage Westley Richards salmon reel, pack a 1920s Westley Richards .318 magazine rifle and a classic Westley Richards ‘drop-lock’ shotgun and do it in true vintage fashion, clad in our traditional tweeds, and taking to the hill in a fashion that John Buchan’s heroes would have recognized and appreciated.
If anyone manages that, let us know.
The Explora Blog is the world’s premier online journal for field sports enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, conservationists and admirers of bespoke gunmaking, fine leather goods and timeless safari clothes. Each month Westley Richards publishes up to 8 blog posts on a range of topics with an avid readership totalling 500,000+ page views per year.
