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ATKIN, GRANT & LANG, gunmakers since 1821, has passed into the hands of a new owner. Me! I took operational control of the firm at Windmill Road, Markyate, St Albans, on 5th September. Ken Duglan stays on in an advisory capacity for as long as necessary to ensure a smooth transition. I have great plans for developing the business and a fantastic team of gunmakers and administrators to help me do it. Fear not, I retain vintageguns.co.uk and will split my time between Markyate and London. Onwards and upwards for both companies!

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At Atkin, Grant & Lang we are working on a 'Colonial' grade double rifle. It is to be a long-bar top-lever boxlock with Purdey bolts and a third grip (possibly a Purdey concealed bite).

Stock will be pistol grip with cap and cheek-piece, forend probably Anson pushrod or maybe Gibbs grip catch. Double triggers. Border engraving only with engraved pins.

Iron leaf sights and ramp foresight.

The intention is to produce a rifle that Professional Hunters and regular tourist hunters who want a classic handling and looking British DR but can't afford one.

We aim to hit the US market at around $25,000.

We intend an initial model in .470 NE and a scaled down version in .375.

Discussions at present are:
1. Do we use .375 H&H rimless or .375 flanged?
2. Is there a market for a .450 calibre as well?
3. Would American buyers be interested in 9.3x74R?
4. Will anyone buy it? (We think so as there is a gap in this range right now)

Any contributions to these discussions most gratefully received.

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"Colonial" model, ha ha.

The price IMO looks like a feasible price (for the buyer) and competitive against some of the "standard" models of the better continental gunmakers. If of equivalent quality or better, an "English name" will certainly help sales.

Introducing a .470 is a no brainer for the American market.

I agree with Mick, a .450 is also sellable. I would buy a .450 anyday over a .470. Just my preferences, but a number of makers now have a .450 in their standard lineup.

.375 Mag vs Flanged? Tough call. I would prefer to buy a Flanged myself anyday over a Magnum version. But would reload anyway, as basically next to no Aussies buy big bore factory ammo in any quantities. For the American market, factory ammo is more important. I think the Magnum version will be more marketable, but the Flanged rifle appeal more to knowledgeable purists. I think this question is better left to our American members. Flanged for me personally though.

9.3x74R, as suggested if in a lighter and possibly cheaper rifle, it would be a great medium calibre double and be able to handle anything in North America. Also have a market on the continent for driven game hunting and battue.

A .450/400. A chambering to definitely consider as well. Growing in popularity for good reason.

Yes I think it will definitely sell.

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John aka NitroX

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Govt get out of our lives NOW!
"I love the smell of cordite in the morning."
"A Sharp spear needs no polish"

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