The engraving instructions are often detailed and precise. So, everything has to match the order. Nothing is too basic to check; is the company name spelled correctly, for example? If English partridge were specified in a game scene, are they clearly English, not French?
Once everyone is satisfied that the engraving brief has been accurately conveyed onto the gun, the entire thing is stripped and re-assembled to check for fit and mechanical function.
If everything is as it should be, the gun is fully stripped and the preparation process begins in earnest. It should be noted that any blemish in, or on, the steel surface will be impossible to remove once hardening has taken place.
Every part of the gun (inside and out) will now be rubbed-down to 2000 grit and then polished with Auto-Sol paste until it is blemish-free and shiny. Only when every detail is perfect will the polished parts be carefully packed and sent for case-hardening.
When they arrive back in the finishing shop after hardening, the colours are rubbed back, if necessary, to the degree agreed with the production manager. This process reveals more of the engraving detail. Some guns will have almost all the colour rubbed off. This is done using Garryson abrasive-infused rubbers.
Post-hardening, every part of the gun also has to be inspected for warping, and any deviation gently relieved by hand. Sharp edges also need to be heated and softened slightly to achieve the correct degree of toughness. Too hard and they can chip when banged on a hard surface, too soft and they can dent. Only when every facet of the gun has been fully assessed, adjusted, polished and inspected will it be re-assembled and tested before embarking on the next stage of its journey.
Whether for the discerning collector or the avid sportsman, Westley Richards firearms represent the epitome of excellence in the world of bespoke gunmaking. Known for the droplock shotgun, over and under shotgun, double barrel rifle and bolt action rifle, the company has achieved an illustrious 200 year history of innovation, craftmanship and artistry. As part of our best gun build, clients can choose from three levels of gun engraving: the house scroll; signature game scenes; and exhibition grade masterpieces. All Westley Richards sporting arms are built at their factory in Birmingham, England. Discover more about the gunmaking journey at our custom rifles and bespoke guns pages.
