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About J. Roberts & Son

Founded in 1959 by Joseph 'Pip' Roberts, J. Roberts & Son has established itself as a premier British gunmaker, renowned for its dedication to traditional craftsmanship and bespoke firearms. The company operates from West Sussex, England, and is led by Paul Roberts, who has continued the family legacy of excellence in gunmaking. J. Roberts & Son is celebrated for producing high-quality double rifles, bolt-action rifles, and best grade shotguns, often crafted to order for discerning sportsmen and collectors worldwide. Their workshop combines time-honored techniques with select modern improvements, ensuring each firearm is both a work of art and a reliable tool. The company also offers restoration, repair, and custom fitting services, maintaining a strong reputation for quality and personal service. With deep historical ties to legendary names like John Rigby & Co and W.J. Jeffery & Co, J. Roberts & Son remains a symbol of British gunmaking heritage and innovation.

The story of J. Roberts & Son begins in 1959, when Joseph 'Pip' Roberts founded the company in London’s West End, driven by a passion for fine firearms and a commitment to traditional British gunmaking. His son, Paul Roberts, joined the business at a young age, quickly developing expertise that would shape the company’s future. Throughout the 1960s and 70s, J. Roberts & Son expanded from dealing in pre-owned guns to manufacturing new rifles and shotguns, with their first .300 rifle marking a significant milestone. The company’s reputation grew through collaborations with iconic brands such as John Rigby & Co and W.J. Jeffery & Co, with Paul Roberts eventually acquiring Rigby and producing classic big-game rifles. Despite industry changes and the sale of the Rigby name, J. Roberts & Son maintained its focus on bespoke craftsmanship, producing over 1,500 new firearms and restoring tens of thousands more. Today, the company operates from purpose-built premises in West Sussex, where a small team of skilled craftsmen continues to uphold the values of quality, tradition, and personal service. The legacy of J. Roberts & Son is defined by resilience, innovation, and a deep respect for the art of gunmaking, ensuring its place among the great names of British firearms history.

J. Roberts & Son Innovations That Changed the Industry

J. Roberts & Son is recognized for preserving and advancing the art of traditional British gunmaking, particularly in the production of bespoke double rifles and bolt-action rifles for big-game hunting. The company has maintained original design patterns and handcrafting techniques, while selectively incorporating modern materials and methods to enhance reliability and performance. Their collaboration with John Rigby & Co and W.J. Jeffery & Co led to the revival and continued production of classic calibers such as the .416 Rigby and .404 Jeffery. J. Roberts & Son’s workshop is also known for its expertise in restoration and repair, often returning vintage firearms to their original condition using period-correct methods. This blend of heritage and innovation has set industry standards for quality and authenticity in bespoke sporting firearms.

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Contact Information

1762868508
admin@jroberts-gunmakers.co.uk
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Quick Facts

Founded1959
CountryUnited Kingdom
CompanyJ. Roberts & Son
Company Sizesmall
Employees10
Specializes InShotguns, Rifles
Price Rangeluxury
Models Produced20
Marketscivilian, sporting, collectors

Sources

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Information sourced from official brand materials and verified sources.

Brand Insights

Reputation & Stereotypes

J. Roberts & Son is widely regarded as a maker of luxury, bespoke firearms with exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail. The brand is associated with traditional British gunmaking, exclusivity, and a personal approach to customer service. Users often praise the quality, reliability, and artistry of their rifles and shotguns, though the high price point places their products firmly in the luxury segment.

Vs Competition

Compared to other British gunmakers such as John Rigby & Co and W.J. Jeffery & Co, J. Roberts & Son distinguishes itself through its small-scale, highly personalized approach and dedication to traditional handcrafting. While Rigby and Jeffery have larger operations and broader international recognition, J. Roberts & Son offers a more bespoke experience, with each firearm tailored to the client’s specifications. Their expertise in restoration and custom builds is also a unique selling point, appealing to collectors and enthusiasts seeking authenticity and heritage.

Warranty & Service

J. Roberts & Son is known for providing attentive, personalized customer service, including comprehensive after-sales support, repairs, and restoration. Warranty terms are tailored to the bespoke nature of each firearm, with a strong emphasis on long-term client relationships and satisfaction.

Manufacturing & Quality

The company is renowned for its meticulous build quality, with most work performed by hand by experienced craftsmen. Quality control is rigorous, ensuring each firearm meets the highest standards of reliability, durability, and aesthetic excellence. Their adherence to traditional methods, combined with selective modern enhancements, results in firearms that are both functional and collectible.

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