Sporting Guns by Richard Akehurst

Sporting Guns by Richard Akehurst is an illustrated history of the development of sporting firearms and the traditions of hunting and shooting associated with them. Published by Octopus Books in 1972, this 96-page edition traces the evolution of sporting guns from the sixteenth century through to the development of the breech-loader. The book combines historical narrative with an extensive selection of colour and black-and-white illustrations and photographs, making it an attractive reference for collectors, shooting enthusiasts and readers interested in the history of firearms.

Sporting Guns explores the changing technology of sporting guns and the ways in which firearms developed in response to the needs of hunters and sportsmen. Early muzzle-loading guns and rifles receive particular attention, alongside the innovations that gradually transformed loading, firing and handling. The book covers important developments including the wheel-lock, snaphaunce, flintlock, miquelet and Jäger rifle, before moving towards percussion firearms and the various forms of breech-loading gun.

Sporting Guns is also notable for its attention to the craftsmanship and design of historic firearms. Akehurst discusses celebrated gunmakers and makers such as James Purdey, Joseph Manton, Charles Lancaster and W. W. Greener, while considering the technical and artistic qualities that made their sporting arms highly regarded. Particular attention is given to fine engraving, decoration, Damascus steel barrels and the specialised tools and equipment associated with gunmaking.

The historical scope extends beyond Britain, with developments in continental Europe and America also considered. The Kentucky rifle, repeating firearms and other innovations demonstrate how sporting gun design evolved across different traditions and markets. The result is a concise but visually rich survey that places firearms technology within the broader history of hunting and sporting culture.

Sporting Guns is an appealing addition to collections of firearms history, sporting literature, gunmaking and hunting books. Its combination of technical development, historical personalities and detailed imagery makes it particularly interesting for collectors of antique firearms and readers fascinated by the craftsmanship behind traditional sporting arms. This 1972 Octopus Books edition remains a useful and visually engaging introduction to the history of sporting firearms.

Condition: Good – Shelf wear and discolouration on boards.