Ever wondered what it's like to sell shotguns to rock stars or manage one of Britain's most prestigious gun rooms? Jonathan Ward pulls back the curtain on his remarkable three-decade journey through the elite world of British gunmaking in this captivating conversation with an old school friend.

From his humble beginnings as a "cartridge boy" in his father's shop to working at legendary establishments like Harrods, EJ Churchill, and Holland & Holland, Ward's career tracks the evolution of Britain's gun trade through boom times and challenges. His story is filled with delightful anecdotes—like convincing his employers he was from a "council estate" despite his expensive private education, or hoping to meet "Harrods birds" only to be stationed on the fifth floor away from the glamorous perfume counters.

Perhaps most fascinating are Ward's behind-the-scenes revelations about Holland & Holland's historic Kensal Rise factory—a Victorian building he describes as "hallowed ground" for gun enthusiasts, where handcrafted firearms continue to be made much as they were a century ago. The picture he paints of traditional British gunmaking is both reverent and realistic, acknowledging the pressures facing this heritage craft.

Ward doesn't shy away from addressing the challenges confronting today's shooting world—from the precarious state of small commercial shoots to rising cartridge prices and the potential impact of lead ammunition bans. Yet he also finds hope in the unprecedented unity among gun dealers, who now collaborate through WhatsApp groups to solve problems and support each other's businesses.

Having come full circle to rejoin the family business at Ray Ward Guns, Ward's story ultimately celebrates the enduring appeal of craftsmanship, tradition, and community in an increasingly digital age. Whether you're a shooting enthusiast or simply fascinated by specialized industries, this episode offers rare insights into a world few get to experience firsthand.

https://raywardgunsmith.com/

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