I don't think this is an accurate picture. Many Brit makers did slow down after the first war, but others increased production during the 'roaring twenties' and early thirties. Don't discount the importance of the continuing high demand from Indian royalty either.

Although dealing mainly with shot-guns, a check of the annual serial number ranges of a few of the main DR makers in Nigel Brown's 'British Gunmakers' will paint both sides of the picture. Sadly, many records are missing.

John Wilkes, for example, made +/- 100 guns per year 1900 to 1914, then made up to 500 guns in some years during the 20s, and around 1500 guns per year 1930 to 1932. Then back to about 40 per year during the 30s. Interesting stuff.

I don't know where to look for actual numbers made in Europe each year. Any suggestions?