The Gentleman Magazine Issue 20 | April 2020 | Page 88
BUYING YOUR FIRST GUN
One of the greatest British traditions, one that is deeply
rooted in the heritage of our culture, is a day’s shooting in the
countryside. Long walks between drives, as the dogs’ echoing
bark and scent of gunpowder drifts through the crisp cold air,
an occasional bang of a shotgun sends the heart aflutter.
Entering this world can be exciting but daunting. Navigating
the options is a tireless task, each country clothing shop and
gunroom a regular Aladdin’s Cave. Spoiled by choice of tweed,
loden and moleskin, not to mention whether a 12 bore or
20 bore is the right fit, where does one start answering the
inevitable question of the right kit for this intoxicating sport?
The Gentleman Magazine sits down with Alastair Philips,
General Manager of William Evans in London, one of the
leading emporiums for country clothing and shooting supplies.
“I would recommend William Evans as a resource for most
outdoor pursuits requirements across clothing, accessories and
guns,” Philips explains. “We are a full service outfitter in the
heart of London, and thus a brilliant destination for the novice
getting into the sport…not to mention our namesake found
success in reaching an untapped market, so nurturing new
interest is effectively in our DNA.”
Located in St. James, a neighbourhood renowned for heritage
and craft, William Evans first opened its doors on Buckingham
Palace Road. The brand’s namesake had learnt his craft in
the workshops of famed gunsmiths James Purdey and Sons
and Holland and Holland, and with the inherent forsight of
new business opportunities, Evans had the confidence to go
out on his own. Although armed with adequate training from
Purdey and Holland and Holland, Evans set himself apart in
recognising a largely untapped market. Over the first thirteen
years in business, William Evans grew to national recognition
having built an enviable client list, which featured ranking
officers in the Guard’s Regiments who ordered sporting
shotguns and rifles before being posted throughout the Empire.
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By engaging with this clientele, business flourished. In addition
to elite military personnel, William Evans then attracted the
private member’s clubs such as White’s, Brooks and Boodles,
who frequented the neighbourhood. Progress and brand
evolution due to alterior influences and a discerning customer
would secure the success of this brand, and determine how the
gun trade would change over the next 100 years.
The range has continued to expand, now including shooting
accessories and clothing, plus gun storage and servicing. “We
pride ourselves on having the knowledge and variety to cater
for every client and numerous shooting disciplines, and a
personal passion of mine is advising new shooters on finding
the right new piece of kit,” explains Philips.
Alastair Philips bought his first air rifle (a gun that propels
projectiles using pressurized air and involves no chemical
reaction) at age 8 for £64, after washing nearly every car in the
neighbourhood. Born into a family that was enthusiastic about
shooting, Philips launched a career in the gun trade, working as
a valuer in antique firearms before joining the team at William
Evans and hasn’t looked back. “When I was offered the job of
working as a junior in the gunroom thirteen years ago, I said
yes without even knowing the salary! I was very lucky that my
uncle lent me a 20bore William Evans as my first shotgun. So I
have always had a soft spot for the brand.”
Philips explains one of the perks of this job, advising new
customers on buying their first gun. “There is a great level of
satisfaction when you help someone with a sport or pursuit
that they really enjoy. It is a luxury, to be away from the office
and in the field. So when it comes to advising, you are hopefully
adding value to something that they will become thoroughly
passionate about.”
Phillips takes us through the various elements to consider
when buying a first gun.
“The first step is if a client has been shooting with a borrowed
gun, find out what they have been using to date and how do
they feel about it.
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