The Legacy of Holland & Holland: A Journey Through Excellence in Gunmaking

And The Holland & Holland Royal SXS .410 Gauge

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The Legacy of Holland & Holland: A Journey Through Excellence in Gunmaking

Holland & Holland, one of the most celebrated names in British gunmaking, has a history that spans nearly two centuries. Known for its handcrafted sporting rifles and shotguns, the company’s commitment to innovation and artistry has earned it a place at the pinnacle of luxury firearms. In this two-part essay, we explore both the rich history of Holland & Holland and one of its finest creations, the Royal SXS .410 Gauge. This exploration sheds light on how the company has maintained its legacy of excellence and how individual models encapsulate that enduring quality.

Part 1: The History of Holland & Holland Gunmaking

Founded in 1835 by Harris Holland, a tobacco merchant turned avid sportsman, Holland & Holland began as a small yet ambitious gunmaking business. Harris, who was often seen at prestigious pigeon shoots and field events, brought his passion for shooting into his designs. In 1867, his nephew, Henry Holland, joined the firm, leading to the official renaming of the company to Holland & Holland. While Henry played a key role in the firm’s operations, Harris remained in strict control until his death in 1896.

Unlike many of its competitors, Holland & Holland did not start with the apprenticeship of its founder under a prominent London gunmaker. Instead, Harris Holland's passion and eye for quality allowed the company to grow organically. Despite this unconventional path, Holland & Holland quickly rose to prominence, thanks in part to the firm’s early success in the 1883 competitive rifle trials organized by The Field magazine, where it won every category. This victory set a new standard for English gunmaking, and the name Holland & Holland became synonymous with superior rifles and shotguns.

The company’s success was built on a series of groundbreaking innovations. In 1885, they introduced the Paradox gun, which featured rifling in the last two inches of the barrel, allowing it to shoot both shot and bullet with accuracy—an innovative hybrid that quickly became a favorite among sportsmen. In 1908, Holland & Holland patented the detachable lock for sidelock shotguns, making maintenance easier without sacrificing performance or elegance. However, the 1922 patent for the self-opening Royal sidelock shotgun solidified their reputation as a leader in gunmaking. The gun’s flawless action and mechanical precision have influenced gunmakers around the world, making it one of the most admired double-barreled shotguns ever produced.