British craftsmanship in fieldsports

The enduring legacy of British manufacturing in fieldsports

British-made gear has long been celebrated as some of the finest in the world. But what exactly does it take to succeed as a British manufacturer in the fieldsports industry? Across the UK, exceptional craftsmanship thrives—from gunmakers and cartridge manufacturers to tailors and leather goods specialists. Their secret? A blend of traditional values, clear purpose, and close relationships with discerning customers.

British guns: heritage and innovation combined

British guns remain revered globally, thanks in part to the nation’s rich and often martial history. Legendary makers such as Purdey, known for sniper rifles and army sights in the Great War, maintain their elite status today. Yet newer brands like Longthorne, founded in 2010, demonstrate there is still room for innovation.

Elaine Stewart, co-founder and marketing director of Longthorne, attributes their success to building brand awareness, trust, and identity. Their guns are crafted entirely in England to ensure consistent quality and avoid supply chain issues. Elaine emphasises that importing foreign parts only to brand them as ‘British’ undermines their ethos. Instead, they champion true British manufacturing, a value that more customers appreciate.

Learn more about Longthorne guns: longthorne.co.uk

Fine Shooting Accessories: championing British craftsmanship

For 20 years, Fine Shooting Accessories (FSA) has combined top performance with classic British styling. Director Ashley Shaw highlights how their customer base has grown internationally, reaching places like New Zealand and Tasmania. Yet FSA remains committed to supporting UK artisans, continuously developing products that showcase British talent.

FSA collaborates with Morton Sporting Ltd Fieldsports Agency for rigorous field testing, ensuring each product is robust and practical. This blend of expert craftsmanship and real-world testing results in accessories users can truly rely on.

Explore FSA products: fine-shooting-accessories.co.uk

Croots: heritage leather goods since the 1970s

Since the 1970s, Croots has made canvas and leather cartridge bags and gunslips, all produced in-house. Allistair Croots emphasises the challenge of preserving skilled craftsmanship in leather goods. With no formal college training available, knowledge is passed down internally.

Croots prides itself on personalised customer service and strict quality control, with every staff member committed to maintaining high standards. This approach ensures their products exceed expectations.

Discover Croots leather goods: croots.co.uk

Alan Paine: timeless tweed and knitwear

Alan Paine has dressed sportsmen, explorers, and even a Pope since 1907. Marketing manager Sarah Lloyd explains that the brand draws from a rich archive of timeless designs that appeal to customers valuing tradition and authenticity.

Brits have a unique approach to outdoor dress, especially in driven shoots where tweed is a sign of respect for both host and quarry. Alan Paine balances classic style with modern design to stay relevant globally.

Shop Alan Paine: alanpaine.com

Daystate: leading British air rifle manufacturing

Daystate, the UK’s premier air rifle producer, pioneered pre-charged pneumatic airguns and has stayed at the forefront for nearly 50 years. Business development manager Tony Belas highlights how the British identity adds quality and sophistication.

The Union Jack still carries weight internationally, boosting sales in the Commonwealth and beyond. Though British manufacturers may not compete on scale, their craftsmanship and skill surpass many larger producers.

Explore Daystate air rifles: daystate.com

Why British manufacturing still matters

Smaller British manufacturers thrive by knowing their identity and standing firm on quality. They avoid chasing trends or cutting corners. Their size allows for faster innovation and closer customer relationships. This agility, combined with longevity and dedication to traditional markets, keeps British producers at the forefront.

Provenance remains a powerful influence in purchasing decisions, especially in fieldsports, where trust in your equipment is vital. British-made products not only support local skills and economies but also offer greener, more reliable options.