Stalking in the Highlands has not really changed. The terrain remains what it always was, the weather poses the same challenges, the deer merit the same respect. A mature red stag is as close to ‘big game’ as we have on these islands and every felled beast warrants the reverence that sportsmen have traditionally bestowed upon it.
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Commercial imperatives and industrial-scale culling controversies aside, for the lone stalker, pitting his wits and skills against the free-roaming herds on the hill is a timeless occupation; one in which the minutes and hours become blurred with the task in hand, as time, scenery and quest combine to concentrate the senses towards that single goal of grassing your beast.
There is ritual in stalking. Part of that ritual requires the accoutrements of the sacrament; crucial for making everything ‘right’. Becoming familiar with every garment, tool and accessory is part of that comforting routine. Pieces of equipment become old friends and bringing each one to bear is done without thought; a reassuring presence contributing to ultimate success. This is why a sportsman’s rifle is so much more than a tool. Far from being a soulless item of hardware, it is an extension of the stalker’s eye and hand, projecting his will into the heart of the beast.
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At Westley Richards, we build rifles that become much-loved companions for generations. They take the stalker back to the essence of his task, just as his grandfather or great-grandfather might have experienced the hill. We create superbly accurate, breathtakingly beautiful and entirely bespoke masterpieces that will deliver the projectile of choice to its destination with panache and dependability, time after time, year after year.
Be it a classic .275 or a modern .300 Win Mag, our silky-smooth, Mauser-action, best stalking rifles, with hand-struck, match-grade barrels, recessed crowns and beautifully figured walnut stocks function perfectly and offer a degree of timeless beauty and dependability not found elsewhere.
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Handmade in Birmingham, traditional rifle-makers delivering unparalleled performance for generations to come: that is the essence of Westley Richards.
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.