Buying a hand-built gun is a journey best made with an experienced guide, such as Ian Andrews. Andrews has helped customers find the right thoroughbred shotguns and rifles for 23 years and now has started his own business, The Sporting Consultancy, to offer that discreet service to private individuals.
“Buying a classic gun is both a pleasure and a challenge,” Andrews said. “Each British gunmaker has his own style, and my job is to match the client’s wishes with the right maker and then guide him through the intricacies to ensure his perfect gun is created. This can be complex. Some are primarily concerned with the gun’s shooting abilities while others focus more on engraving and the walnut’s figure. My view is that the client should have it all—a shotgun that’s both beautiful and a first-class performer in the field.”
Andrews has the deep, inside knowledge of the trade to achieve that. In 1997 he joined the gun department of Bonham auctioneers, and then in 2001 moved to James Purdey & Sons, where he worked with the head of gun sales. In 2006 he moved back into the gun-auction world as international head of gun sales for Christie’s before returning to Purdey’s as head of gun sales. His final position before starting his own company was head of gun sales for William & Son.
Andrews also can use his experience to advise clients buying at auction or retail as well as those looking for driven shooting at famed estates and unique items to grace their gunrooms.
“My aim is to provide the best for those who really appreciate it,” he said.
For more information, visit the-sportingconsultancy.com.
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