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Every apprentice is tasked with making a number of tools during his first year at the factory. Stuart was given a piece of steel bar and a spring clamp, and told to cut and file his own copy of the clamp, using the tools and skills he was learning from his gaffer.
Once he had made it, polished it and hardened it to the satisfaction of his mentor, it became part of his everyday life, compressing the mainsprings of gunlocks in order that the lock may be disassembled or assembled. It is a simple, low-tech but invaluable tool that every gunmaker needs.
Apprentices at Westley Richards today are given technical drawings of a clamp, rather than an old one to copy. They then have to transfer these specifications into the parts required to make the clamp, which they, then assemble and finish.
Each gunmaker will often bring an individual twist to their final spring clamp, whether that be in the component styling or overall finishing. Some have even taken to spotting and colour-case hardening them - bespoke is without doubt in everything our gunsmiths do!
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.
