Man you bring back memories. I learned to shoot with single shot rifles one of which was a Stevens 32 rimfire. It's a shame CIL burned down. When I was a kid 32/20 and 25/20 m92s and m1894s were still used as tools for varmints and small game. Old "Gun Digest" copies have articles on rejuvenating rook rifles to take modern cartridges or modifying cases to suit old guns. Keep this up.
Single shot rifles are a favorite of mine and the rook rifle is at the top of the list. My meager resources make owning a rook rifle a dream. So I built a "Turkey Rifle": Stevens break action 410 shot gun fitted with a Nagant rifle barrel adapted to fire an assortment of 32 cal pistols rounds. No splinter forend but a rather unique beaver tail piece. On a whole a pleasant little single shot; as with adapting cartridges to fit old firearms where there is a will there is a way. I enjoy your videos Thanks
I purchased a modern (Chiappa) garden gun in 9mm Flobert for my best friend, as a token of appreciation for loaning me his trailer for a few months. I'd love to have a proper vintage model! Great video!
Those are very fine - and you're a great friend - to do that. BTW - I wrote Chiappa about a year ago suggesting they make a copy of a Rook rifle - the H&H actually. As it is - the Chiappa is wonderful. I usually don't hear back from the major manufacturers - but I send my ideas anyway. God Bless.
Man, I thought I know quite a bit about firearms, but every time I watch your videos I realise that I wish you would live forever(and be my uncle that I can come by and actually be allowed to touch some of them guns, under strict supervision, and while listening to your amazing seemingly endless knowledge about the masterpieces)....
Old Martini Cadet actions make a very handsome rook rifle. A gunsmith in St. Louis just finished one for me in 25-20 with half octogen, love it! Thank you for all the work you do!
The form reminds me of my Winchester model 58 Boys rifle; thin, light, simple. But of course so much more work went into these Rook rifles. The elegant simplicity of these are very attractive in an age of complexity and plastic. Henry makes a modern garden gun that is a smooth bore .22. I just wish they would smooth the finish on their barrels.
Beautiful little guns. I had a folding 410 Shotgun with a similar layout to the sidelever. It was light and handy and I loved it. I would have loved one of the rifles.
Thank you for a great video. I bought the 1992 Gun Digest when it came out and have read that article many times. The rook rifles have intrigued me since then but miniature shotguns seem to be more common in my area.
I love all of them! My father was a cartridge collector for most of his life. I have found many of the Rook cartridges that are lead wadcutters inside the brass cases. You have enlightened me on what they are and their use. I love the wood and the way those guns fit together. Thank you for sharing your collection!
My privilege Ron - I'm glad you have those cartridges; plenty of meaning in them - although to look at them one would not at first know. Likely your dad did though : )
Enjoyed your video about Rook rifles, I bought my first rifle in 1960 a Westley Richards Sherwood rook rifle originally in 300 Sherwood cartridge but when I bought it it had changed to .22 rimfire with a tube up the barrel. It is a martini action and in good condition and after looking at your video I must get it out and start shooting it again .
Hi Robin - I tried to buy a Sherwood in near mint condition : what a fine rifle - but the seller changed his mind; which was a good decision. In .22 you're good to go any time and the handling and class are all still there - great buy BTW. All the best to you and good shooting!
By coincidence, i just very recently picked up my first garden gun. It is an Anchutz in 9mm Glatt rimfire. A single shot bolt action with quite an interesting method of extraction. I believe it is less than 4 pounds. Pawn shop find.
Mike, Just when I think I've got a handle on the firearms thing, you bring out a line of guns that show me I've still got more to learn. I've got an idea for a video - what gun model or style has thrown you the biggest curve ball over the years? There's got to be a half dozen guns that just stopped you in your tracks... I'd love to hear those stories in a video. Take care and be well.
What a fantastic subject and it's good of you to share this part of your collection with us. That Holland & Holland could fairly be described as a Masterpiece I think. All of them are nice in their own ways of course. I was not very familiar with the larger calibre versions and didn't realise the type was so relatively common "back in the day" having only really heard about (and seen a couple of examples) the guns that fire Flobert cartridges, those being popular in the UK for pest control around farms and barns and I think there will still be a few farmers around still using them for that purpose, with the air rifle having mostly filled that role these days. A lovely video and presentation, as always. Thanks.
Thank you! These are in a class of their own and are extraordinarily fine to handle, own and shoot. I wish H&H started making them again - I told them they would be surprised how many people would buy. Rooks are so shootable - and don't require Africa or anything fancy. All the best.
Nice rifles for sure .. I have to admit in my 76 years i have never seen one at a gun show or local gun shop .. No shooter showed up at the local range with one either .. I'm not certain when i first heard the term Rook rifle but it was a long time ago, in the 60's i think ..Now i'm going to have to look and see if in fact i can find one .. Thanks this was well done ...
Those are all very nice. I always liked the simplicity of the little single shots that were kept near the back door at the farms I visited with my dad when I was a kid. Seemed like everyone had one handy just in case something needed dispatching. My great grandfather was partial to .22 Hornet and thought .32 Long Colt was getting too hard to find. When he got into his 80s I think he chased off antique dealers more than crows or rabbits.
At the beginning of the video you mentioned a "Garden Gun." That reminded me that Henry currently makes a smooth bore .22 RF LR lever action that they call their "Garden Gun." They have a video on their website that shows it will actually make a tighter pattern than .22 shot rounds will make with a rifled barrel. Perhaps that is somewhat like when Pontiac named one of their cars after a racing circuit in France, (Grand Prix.)
Thanks Bob - I didn't know. For sure the rifling spins out the tiny .22 shot into a very broad and gappy pattern - I've tested before. The smooth bore .22 is a good idea that really works. On rate they move so quick even over bait that sometimes the .22 shot is the only way to go - at least for me - I'm just not quick enough.
Bob - In Great Britain today smoothbore .22's are still widely available and popular. They are still sold and known as garden guns and that is what they are for, they are used to protect gardens. They are easier to own than other guns as they are exempt from some of the onerous British gun laws. Henry calls their's a garden gun because that is exactly what it is.
Another great video, you have an Amazing collection, i so love the old and quirky guns!! I know you say your no expert? But you sure know a lot. Stay safe.
@@UnitedStatesOfGuns ...and I guess it all depends on the definition, but I wouldn’t hesitate to refer to you with that word- expert. Definitely way more knowledge about guns than anyone I know. Still hope to (one day) see a video of the whole collection... not sure it’s a good idea with the world we live in, but man! you seemingly keep on pulling new guns from that “modest” collection for every video! I hope your wife does never finds out the real amount of money is “invested” in those amazing toys. Love your knowledge and thank you for sharing!
I just found that the book Cartridges of the World is available here in Canada too, therefore I will be ordering it as soon as I can now. Thanks for the great video,.always so informative and sometimes surprising, as this one is,... to me at least :)
I'm a big fan of these old garden guns and have a few of them. One interesting rifle I have is an FN single shot in 9mm rf, made for the 9mm ball like the BB cap. It is fully rifled and very accurate when fed the proper ammunition, and surprisingly quiet to use. It's in near new condition despite being about one hundred years old. I guess ammo was never common enough for it to see much use on this side of the pond. NA that is. Thanks for the great video.
These small game and pest control rifles generally used rimmed revolver rounds. At first they were rim-fire but later were made in center-fire. A few like the Marlin-Ballard had reversible firing pins on the hammer So they could accept either kinds of ammo. I have one in 38 Long which was the round that converted 1851 Colt revolvers used. First in rim-fires then later in centerfire. Colt had a factory in London so his 32,38 and 44 conversion ammo was quite popular in rabbit and rook rifles. I am working on making 38 long ammo using 38 Spl cases and .380 Colt bullets from an Eras Gone bullet molds.
I just found this video and absolutely love the rifles. I've been refurbishing some Stevens crackshot 16 and favorites. I really appreciate these guns but haven't found any like yours. I'll keep my eyes open for them. Thanks for posting
Really elegant little rifles Sometimes something so simple Will hold more beauty Then something complicated and over engineered Love your videos Have a blessed day
These early cartridge guns used black powder and corrosive primers. Many suffered from insufficient cleaning and the bores ended up pitted or worn. I had one that had been bored out to take a 9mm shot cartridge . So technically I supposed that it was converted from a "rabbit and rook" rifle into a smooth bore "garden gun". I have a Tranter and a Marlin-Ballard Both in 38 long. The bores on both are pretty worn so I am tempted to have them relined to 32 long or 38 spl. Thanks for your videos
The "Rook Gun" I had was a 9mm shotgun rimfire the ammo was manufactured at the time in Canada. The shell had a brass rimfire base with a typical paper shotshell that held the shot, the recoil was very slight.
Century arms has imported into the U.S. . A 8mm rimfire shotgun. A folding single like the Hatfield. It's not selling well. I think they are offering it with 1000 rounds trying to unload them.
I started out with a Daisy Red Ryder. Next came a H&R single shot 410 purchased at Kmart for $50 bucks when I was 9. Then came a Marlin model 60 from grandpa when I was 12. Then came a Savage Springfield 20ga pump, and an ancient single shot Winchester bolt action 22 that was gained in trade for a 5hp Briggs and Stratton engine. When I was 16 I got my 1st job, and then I purchased my 1st rifle with my own money. A pawn shop special Marlin 336 in 30-30 Win. Many have came and went since then, and unfortunately I don't own any of the aforementioned guns anymore due to circumstances beyond my control. My current acquisitions are nicer and more expensive than any of my 1st firearms, but none of them bring me the same pride of ownership as those guns that made a shooter out of me.
Rim fire cartridges were the first cartridges ....made before center fire the Henry rifle was in .44 rim fire and had two firing pins in order to increase the reliability of the rifle. The Stevens falling block action rifles would be similar to the rook rifles. Mine are in .25 RF, and .32 Long RF as well as .22 RF. Thank you for your wonderful video. I really enjoy your enthusiasm and knowledge sharing content.
Interest you said!! For sure!! Beautiful elegant and well made light rifles!! Too bad that no ones is making them now a day and affordable would be great!! That Martini is sure one amazing looking rifle, a dream rifle for sure!!!
I used to see a few of these at auctions. Not so often any more. I always loved the simple clean lines of them but they were almost always some unobtainium calibre. I remember seeing some in 9mm ish type calibre. Knowing what I know now it would be interesting to try and produce home loads for them. I am a fan of 38/357. So easy to reload straight wall cases and very effective in the right circumstances. 32 calibre would also be interesting I think. Thanks for the vid. Enjoyable as always. 😊
Beautiful, elegant and wonderful little rifles, those Rook/garden guns are! I can remember many times hearing my dad say "they just don't make um like they used to!"Now, 70 years later, I couldn't agree more, the materials, the craftsmanship and the artists/craftsmen who made those firearms, are far and few between! My suggestion is, if you have any of these type of beautiful firearms, is to "hold on to them tightly, and never ever sell them!" Pass them down in your family, or gift them to a younger person you know will cherish and appreciate them as you do! Take them out of the gun safe and pamper, clean/protect them, and slobber over them often, and do not hesitate to use them, as they were intended to be shot....and loved!
I went on a search for Rook Rifles for sale and i did find 3 so far.. Westly & Rickards and H&H and one other .. Really i had no idea as in gun magazines and such i never read an article about one .. But like you say they are out there, and a person can find one if you look around .. Very Very interesting rifles , quality is excellent on the two that had lots of pictures of every angle .. Thanks ..
I've got a rook rifle that's been bored out to .410 shotgun as many were. It's not due to the lack of ammunition, it's because of changes in gun laws starting around 1920 which made it harder to own a rifle, but shotguns were still unrestricted here in the UK until the 70s
Thanks for the note; now we know. I just bought a "Rook" .410 - still waiting for it to arrive. I have a few - very light and must have been nice as rifles.
The British HBSA (Historical Breechloading Smallarms Association) still run several Rook and Rabbit competitions each year where many of these lovely old rifles are fired by enthusiasts. Most, if not all the ammunition is loaded by hand due to being obsolete. Check out their website, great group of ladies and gentlemen.
A lot of the European "Garden guns" which the English often called "Rook rifles" were in 5mm, 7mm and 9mm pinfire and later rimfire, and in their day I believe they were no less reliable than any other cartridge. The cartridges were offered either in "ball" or shot, and sometimes even "Flobert". However a lot of the European guns were proved for Black Powder, and even though some of them chamber a modern round they are NOT SAFE for smokeless cartridges !! (Don't use modern .32 c/f in European guns, and especially NOT modern .44 colt in the thin-walled 410 shotguns. However it's great to see these underrated guns getting some exposure - they're pretty common here in Australia, and I have a few in my collection. Thanks for the video!
To think that if it hadn't been for the pandemic, we would not have been able to enjoy what might be one of my very favorite of your or anyone's videos. The concept of a sleek single shot in a moderate pistol caliber has always intrigued me. Most single shots I've found were either too crude or overkill. I've owned the Ruger No.1 in 6mm, but that's way more gun than I want for use in Illinois woods. I wish Ruger or someone would come out with a scaled down No.1. The Winchester Low Wall is the closest I've seen, but seldom is chambered in something as mild as 32 Long.
Very Nice i have 2 Flobert 22s at the gun smith now one has a raised block with carved forearm the other the block thumbs back i think older with a plain stock looking for 22 shorts for it many thanks for sharing your knowledge
Thanks a lof for an excellent video. I am a big fan of old rook rifles and have been using an old German unmarked rifle for roedeer for years. My German rifle was originally a .22 but I have had it changed to 30.30 which makes it a bit more usable for hunting. This week I bought a Holland & Holland similar to yours from my gunsmith, who is also a rook rifle enthusiast, it needed some tlc and is still with him but I am so looking forward to get it back from him. It is in 6x60R which is an excellent "pencil" type cartridge. The problem with rook rifles is that they seem to multiply in the gun cabinet.
😂😂...."multiply in the gun cabinet" Great idea - re-working into a 30-30 - the Rook rounds are so weak. I'll have to look up 6x60R - very interesting. Thanks for the note and good shooting!
@@UnitedStatesOfGuns No problem and good shooting to you too. The 6x60R is similar to the .243 in power but as it is rimmed it makes perfect sense in this type of rifles or drillings. Extraction always work and the construcion is very simple. I have a hammer drilling where the rifle barrel is in 9,3x72R and I really like the simplicy of the mechanism. As for the 9.3x72R it is a fairly big cartridge originally made for black powder but in the smokeless powder version it is very light in recoil and also excellent for roedeer.
You just can't beat the simplicity of a single shot firearm. Thank you for sharing these unique pieces. A reminder of more simple times in the "firepower crazy" world where we currently reside. Btw...your title made me think that you may be showing us some of the unique and very effective air rifles. Quite a history behind them dating back to well before most would imagine.
@@UnitedStatesOfGuns i don't have any air rifles but am amazed with the information on their development and early use. Most notably their use during the Lewis & Clark expedition 1803.
While watching this video it got me to thinking about what classic American rifle reminded me of the Rook rifles you are showing, and it was an iconic Buffalo rifle that came to my mind. Now how does a Buffalo rifle remind me of a Rook rifle meant to shoot rabbits and other small quarry? The answer to such a question is the Remington Rolling Block Model 4. Thank you for sharing such delightful rifles, and congratulations on acquiring a Model 70 Super Grade.
My 1st real gun was a shotgun 20 ga. single shot break I LOVE THAT GUIN ! In shotguns i dearly love the breaks in single and double barrels and pumps, in rifles and pistols, semi automatics in rifles, and automatic and revolvers in pistols > I dearly love my Derringers to ! The Davis .22 mag and in the 38 round ~ They have never misfired or jammed ~ Automatics and lever action jams to much for me ~ I would choose a bolt action over automatic and lever action
Another great video! Do you have Colin Greenwood's book "Rook and Rabbit Rifles"in your library? Very good reference, plus a great chapter on ammo options. God bless you for sharing all your cool stuff, and experience, with a broad range of world wide watchers! Keep up the great work!
Thank you J.K - I don't have Greenwood's book - but I used to; I'll find one again. Thanks for your kind words - they mean a lot to me. All the best to you!
What a delightful presentation. The falling block, did you sat Martin made them in England? Can you expand on it as I would like more info to see if I can find one and price range.
You're videos are so interesting. I find myself putting on some music and just watching what goes on in the forest - or elsewhere. I'm glad there is a whole "other reality" - with animals and trees, silence - stillness; we humans make such a mess. God Bless and keep filming.
@@UnitedStatesOfGuns thank you! It really is interesting to see what goes on out there. It's turned into a fun little hobby for us. Thanks for your videos too! Always interesting and nicely presented, you are the gentleman of gun channels. 👍👍
I don't think there are Rooks in North America. We have millions of crows here in Florida. I am not aware of anyone hunting them although I have not raised the question. In the Middle Atlantic states hunting Starlings is high sport. Mostly with air rifles, but low speed rim fire cartridges suffice as long as you are careful to avoid shooting beyond the target. The Rook rifles look interesting. I will have to learn more. Great video!
There's just something about the way the old single shot break barrel shotguns and rifles feel that isn't available on the modern market, whether it's the craftsmanship or the nostalgia of a time long past, most modern break barrel shotguns and rifles have a feeling of cheap build quality when you hold them,.whereas many of the old firearms that were taken care of or those used very little and thus remain tight have a certain elegance about them that just isn't available today.
Slightly off topic,..you mentioned "rook rifles " and I instantly thought of a rifle my Father gave me, oh so many years ago, it is called a 'rook file' and the makers name is 'W.R.Pape' as engraved on the receiver.It was a lever operated rifle w when the lever was opened a feed ramp/slide would allow loading of the breech, one cartridge at a time, obviously. I don't have, nor can I find ( here in Canada ) and ammunition for it. From the box of ammunition I did have the caliber was 25-27 centerfire. Have you heard of this make and caliber of rifle before? Now, I wrote this comment/question within the first 3 minutes of your video, so I imagine it's not really that far off topic, is it?
Hi Reg - Nice rifle - I think I had one. Mine was based on the miniature Martini action and the cartridge was 297/250 Rook - I found a way to use .25 ACP in mine. Maybe your rifle is for a different cartridge. Maybe this link will help www.rifleman.org.uk/Westley_Richards_miniature_rifles.html Feel free to send a pic to me at usogbyemail@gmail.com I'll get back to you. I wish you all the best.
W r Pape was a very famous quality British gunmaker, right up with the best .He entered in many trials competitions against the likes of H@H ,WW Greener ,Purdey etc held by the Famous Field magazine .This magazine is still published to this this day , I believe it still holds the title of longest unbroken publication in the U K .I can highly recommend you treat yourself to one . They are a monthly quality publication . PS .my best wishes to the Colony's ,regards from old Blighty .
@@geraldswain3259 Actually, my W.R.Pape Rook rifle was bought in Newfoundland long before it became a province of Canada, prior to that we flew the Union Jack here. So Greetings back at you 'brother'. Oh, thanks for the information on Pape.
@@regsparkes6507 Hi Reg ,thanks for the reply ,much appreciated !..may I suggest if you are interested , to invest in a second hand copy off the the net of WW Greener's book title The Gun , it is a fabulous book on English gunmakers crammed with information , One can be purchased very cheaply in a 5th or 6th editition. If you read it you will soon realise the British were responsible for 95% of the patents on the modern shotgun as we know it today . Regards from old Blighty .
Pape was a very famous maker of "best" guns of the highest quality. He is sometimes credited with the invention of choke boring but that is not correct. I think that he had the first British patent for choke boring but the concept and use are much older.
My 1st real gun was a shotgun 20 ga. single shot break I LOVE THAT GUIN ! In shotguns i dearly love the breaks in single and double barrels and pumps, in rifles and pistols, semi automatics in rifles, and automatic and revolvers in pistols > I dearly love my Derringers to ! The Davis .22 mag and in the 38 round ~ Automatics and lever action jams to much for me ~ I would choose a bolt action over automatic and lever action
Hi Mike ,I did mention it on a previous occasion .Please go and treat yourself to the comparatively recent publication British Rook and Rabbit rifles , it is a absolute must to the collector of fine rifles , crammed with so much information .It includes a modern reloading section for them in all the original calibre . Incidentally a lot of them ran (300 cal ) with a heeled bullet . My Regards from the Empire , Gerald the old sage !.
Gerald! Keeper of the Realm! Always glad to hear from you. I'm going to get the book - I'm so slow. That H&H has a perfect "hang" to it - so steady. I checked and rook numbers are high - good news. All the best to you!
A few days ago I bought a 4-5 pound bag of assorted ammo. In it were 19 rounds of .32 rimfire birdshot. It has wooden bullets holding the shot. I haven't opened one yet to confirm that though.
@Art Anson It is a case like a .22 with a wooden bullet. The cases are copper colored with a U head stamp. There is some green corrosion at the base of the wooden bullet. I saw a box of them in a post on, I believe, the Rim Fire Central site. I didn't expect to actually see any of the rounds but these turned up.
@Art Anson Thanks for all of this Art! I'm in my 70s and retired as well so I have time to delve into arcane subjects. Being an old guy I appreciate old firearms, the odder the better. Thanks for the links, I will follow them. I just spent over $500 on .25 and .32 rimfire ammo, that's how hopeless I am on this stuff, I don't even have a .25 firearm. Looking at the .25 Stevens ammo I can't help but wonder what it would be like necked to .22, perhaps a cheaper rival to .22 Hornet, the cases are a few hundredths shorter than .22 Magnum. In a couple days I will be going back to a local gun shop to take a hard look at a Winchester Hotchkiss Model 1883 rifle, five rounds of 45-70 goodness stored in a tubular magazine in the butt stock. If the bore is decent I'll buy it. Forgotten Weapons has a good video on it.
USOG, little random, ever had a .500 or .450 Black powder express? Just finished reading a book about Jim Corbett and the Champawat man-eater. The .500BPE seems to be a great efficient cartridge for even deer and bear.
Great video brother thank you for your knowledge and expertise I am a new subscriber and I look forward to gleaning over your knowledge and expertise 🎚🇺🇲👍
Reminds me of the old " Boys Rifle" that was made by Remington many years ago, chambered in several small-bore rounds. Very nice.
Man you bring back memories.
I learned to shoot with single shot rifles one of which was a Stevens 32 rimfire. It's a shame CIL burned down.
When I was a kid 32/20 and 25/20 m92s and m1894s were still used as tools for varmints and small game.
Old "Gun Digest" copies have articles on rejuvenating rook rifles to take modern cartridges or modifying cases to suit old guns.
Keep this up.
The French use 9 mm and 14 mm shotguns ....they came from Europe and are still around !!
Of all the gun channels I sub to, this and Paul's channel are my favorites. Thank-you.
Same here. Never miss one.
Single shot rifles are a favorite of mine and the rook rifle is at the top of the list. My meager resources make owning a rook rifle a dream. So I built a "Turkey Rifle": Stevens break action 410 shot gun fitted with a Nagant rifle barrel adapted to fire an assortment of 32 cal pistols rounds. No splinter forend but a rather unique beaver tail piece. On a whole a pleasant little single shot; as with adapting cartridges to fit old firearms where there is a will there is a way. I enjoy your videos Thanks
I personally prefer the Falling Blocks..! Great Action..!
I purchased a modern (Chiappa) garden gun in 9mm Flobert for my best friend, as a token of appreciation for loaning me his trailer for a few months. I'd love to have a proper vintage model! Great video!
Those are very fine - and you're a great friend - to do that. BTW - I wrote Chiappa about a year ago suggesting they make a copy of a Rook rifle - the H&H actually. As it is - the Chiappa is wonderful. I usually don't hear back from the major manufacturers - but I send my ideas anyway. God Bless.
Man, I thought I know quite a bit about firearms, but every time I watch your videos I realise that I wish you would live forever(and be my uncle that I can come by and actually be allowed to touch some of them guns, under strict supervision, and while listening to your amazing seemingly endless knowledge about the masterpieces)....
Old Martini Cadet actions make a very handsome rook rifle. A gunsmith in St. Louis just finished one for me in 25-20 with half octogen, love it!
Thank you for all the work you do!
I love that falling block!
Its called a rolling block and if its 410 ga its a shotgun not a rifle i have about 13 of them in diff gauges
The form reminds me of my Winchester model 58 Boys rifle; thin, light, simple.
But of course so much more work went into these Rook rifles.
The elegant simplicity of these are very attractive in an age of complexity and plastic.
Henry makes a modern garden gun that is a smooth bore .22.
I just wish they would smooth the finish on their barrels.
Beautiful little guns. I had a folding 410 Shotgun with a similar layout to the sidelever. It was light and handy and I loved it. I would have loved one of the rifles.
Thank you for a great video. I bought the 1992 Gun Digest when it came out and have read that article many times. The rook rifles have intrigued me since then but miniature shotguns seem to be more common in my area.
That 223 is gorgeous!
Thanks Matt - one of my best without a doubt.
Just found a Flobert rifle the other day at the local gun shop. It fits and fires a 357 magnum case, which I load like a small shotshell.
It's got to be like the rock island auction house around your house. You always have some magnificent firearms. I love the old guns.
Wow I love it no plastic !
Exceptionally interesting episode. My 1st introduction to the Rook Rifle.
I love that falling block
These are very nice little rifles hunting with them is a very interesting thing to do it takes us back to a different time.
Thanks Flint. Amazing what the past holds. These are so unique. Stay safe.
Your videos are such a wonderful treat! Thankyou sir for another.
I love all of them! My father was a cartridge collector for most of his life. I have found many of the Rook cartridges that are lead wadcutters inside the brass cases. You have enlightened me on what they are and their use. I love the wood and the way those guns fit together. Thank you for sharing your collection!
My privilege Ron - I'm glad you have those cartridges; plenty of meaning in them - although to look at them one would not at first know. Likely your dad did though : )
Enjoyed your video about Rook rifles, I bought my first rifle in 1960 a Westley Richards Sherwood rook rifle originally in 300 Sherwood cartridge but when I bought it it had changed to .22 rimfire with a tube up the barrel. It is a martini action and in good condition and after looking at your video I must get it out and start shooting it again
.
Hi Robin - I tried to buy a Sherwood in near mint condition : what a fine rifle - but the seller changed his mind; which was a good decision. In .22 you're good to go any time and the handling and class are all still there - great buy BTW. All the best to you and good shooting!
I really enjoy your videos because of the old vintage guns that's gone forever now those old guns had a personality may God bless you
Hey Mike. What Beautiful little Rifles, very elegantly made. That standard of workmanship costs a fortune these days. Stay safe..
You have such elegant rifles. The stocks, and the way they fit the rifles are so beautiful. They must be a real joy to shoot.
By coincidence, i just very recently picked up my first garden gun. It is an Anchutz in 9mm Glatt rimfire. A single shot bolt action with quite an interesting method of extraction. I believe it is less than 4 pounds. Pawn shop find.
Small caliber single shot rifles are nicely streamlined a real pleasure to carry and bueatiful when elegantly made. Well done video.
Mike, Just when I think I've got a handle on the firearms thing, you bring out a line of guns that show me I've still got more to learn.
I've got an idea for a video - what gun model or style has thrown you the biggest curve ball over the years? There's got to be a half dozen guns that just stopped you in your tracks... I'd love to hear those stories in a video.
Take care and be well.
I would love a video about that!
Will do Paul - thank you for the idea : )
What a fantastic subject and it's good of you to share this part of your collection with us. That Holland & Holland could fairly be described as a Masterpiece I think. All of them are nice in their own ways of course. I was not very familiar with the larger calibre versions and didn't realise the type was so relatively common "back in the day" having only really heard about (and seen a couple of examples) the guns that fire Flobert cartridges, those being popular in the UK for pest control around farms and barns and I think there will still be a few farmers around still using them for that purpose, with the air rifle having mostly filled that role these days.
A lovely video and presentation, as always. Thanks.
Thank you! These are in a class of their own and are extraordinarily fine to handle, own and shoot. I wish H&H started making them again - I told them they would be surprised how many people would buy. Rooks are so shootable - and don't require Africa or anything fancy. All the best.
Nice rifles for sure .. I have to admit in my 76 years i have never seen one at a gun show or local gun shop .. No shooter showed up at the local range with one either .. I'm not certain when i first heard the term Rook rifle but it was a long time ago, in the 60's i think ..Now i'm going to have to look and see if in fact i can find one .. Thanks this was well done ...
I swear you always showcase some of the most beautiful rifles and shotguns I've ever seen‼️
Those are all very nice. I always liked the simplicity of the little single shots that were kept near the back door at the farms I visited with my dad when I was a kid. Seemed like everyone had one handy just in case something needed dispatching. My great grandfather was partial to .22 Hornet and thought .32 Long Colt was getting too hard to find. When he got into his 80s I think he chased off antique dealers more than crows or rabbits.
At the beginning of the video you mentioned a "Garden Gun." That reminded me that Henry currently makes a smooth bore .22 RF LR lever action that they call their "Garden Gun." They have a video on their website that shows it will actually make a tighter pattern than .22 shot rounds will make with a rifled barrel.
Perhaps that is somewhat like when Pontiac named one of their cars after a racing circuit in France, (Grand Prix.)
Thanks Bob - I didn't know. For sure the rifling spins out the tiny .22 shot into a very broad and gappy pattern - I've tested before. The smooth bore .22 is a good idea that really works. On rate they move so quick even over bait that sometimes the .22 shot is the only way to go - at least for me - I'm just not quick enough.
Bob - In Great Britain today smoothbore .22's are still widely available and popular. They are still sold and known as garden guns and that is what they are for, they are used to protect gardens. They are easier to own than other guns as they are exempt from some of the onerous British gun laws. Henry calls their's a garden gun because that is exactly what it is.
Another great video, you have an Amazing collection, i so love the old and quirky guns!! I know you say your no expert? But you sure know a lot. Stay safe.
Thank you Robert - I am encouraged by your words. God Bless.
@@UnitedStatesOfGuns ...and I guess it all depends on the definition, but I wouldn’t hesitate to refer to you with that word- expert.
Definitely way more knowledge about guns than anyone I know.
Still hope to (one day) see a video of the whole collection... not sure it’s a good idea with the world we live in, but man! you seemingly keep on pulling new guns from that “modest” collection for every video!
I hope your wife does never finds out the real amount of money is “invested” in those amazing toys.
Love your knowledge and thank you for sharing!
you have the most fantastic rifles. so many different, so man special. thank you.
A beautiful collection. Thank you.
Thank you Marcelo!
I just found that the book Cartridges of the World is available here in Canada too, therefore I will be ordering it as soon as I can now.
Thanks for the great video,.always so informative and sometimes surprising, as this one is,... to me at least :)
I'm so glad Reg. As always, I wish you the very best.
@@UnitedStatesOfGunsThank you,.very much!
Thank you for sharing your beautiful collection!
I'm a big fan of these old garden guns and have a few of them. One interesting rifle I have is an FN single shot in 9mm rf, made for the 9mm ball like the BB cap. It is fully rifled and very accurate when fed the proper ammunition, and surprisingly quiet to use. It's in near new condition despite being about one hundred years old. I guess ammo was never common enough for it to see much use on this side of the pond. NA that is. Thanks for the great video.
These small game and pest control rifles generally used rimmed revolver rounds. At first they were rim-fire but later were made in center-fire.
A few like the Marlin-Ballard had reversible firing pins on the hammer
So they could accept either kinds of ammo.
I have one in 38 Long which was the round that converted 1851 Colt revolvers used. First in rim-fires then later in centerfire.
Colt had a factory in London so his 32,38 and 44 conversion ammo was quite popular in rabbit and rook rifles.
I am working on making 38 long ammo using 38 Spl cases and .380 Colt bullets from an Eras Gone bullet molds.
I just found this video and absolutely love the rifles. I've been refurbishing some Stevens crackshot 16 and favorites. I really appreciate these guns but haven't found any like yours. I'll keep my eyes open for them. Thanks for posting
Nice video. Beautiful rifles . Love the falling block.
Thanks Tim - and that little rifle really is astonishing.
Really elegant little rifles
Sometimes something so simple
Will hold more beauty
Then something complicated and over engineered
Love your videos
Have a blessed day
Perfect words and thank you. God Bless.
Those small single shot, falling block or break open rifles are so simple yet elegant. I guess the Ruger No. 1 is a relative.
Learning More Each Time...
Bless
These early cartridge guns used black powder and corrosive primers.
Many suffered from insufficient cleaning and the bores ended up pitted or worn.
I had one that had been bored out to take a 9mm shot cartridge . So technically I supposed that it was converted from a "rabbit and rook" rifle into a smooth bore "garden gun".
I have a Tranter and a Marlin-Ballard
Both in 38 long. The bores on both are pretty worn so I am tempted to have them relined to 32 long or 38 spl.
Thanks for your videos
Wow, what a wealth of knowledge, I'm so pleased I found your channel !!
That Hagen is gorgeous!
Tremendously interesting and educational as usual. Thank you sir.
Thank you!
The "Rook Gun" I had was a 9mm shotgun rimfire the ammo was manufactured at the time in Canada. The shell had a brass rimfire base with a typical paper shotshell that held the shot, the recoil was very slight.
That sounds like what is known in the uk as a garden gun. Very different to a rook rifle.
Century arms has imported into the U.S. . A 8mm rimfire shotgun. A folding single like the Hatfield. It's not selling well. I think they are offering it with 1000 rounds trying to unload them.
Do you have a link?
I bought my son a Hatfield .410 for his first gun last Christmas and it's a fun little shotty to play with, .410 shells are so damn expensive though.
Probably a 9mm Flobert, not 8mm? They're fairly popular in Europe still, I have a Chiappa Little Badger in 9mm Rimfire (and one in .22LR).
@@ApurtureSci Your right. I miss spoke.
I started out with a Daisy Red Ryder. Next came a H&R single shot 410 purchased at Kmart for $50 bucks when I was 9. Then came a Marlin model 60 from grandpa when I was 12. Then came a Savage Springfield 20ga pump, and an ancient single shot Winchester bolt action 22 that was gained in trade for a 5hp Briggs and Stratton engine. When I was 16 I got my 1st job, and then I purchased my 1st rifle with my own money. A pawn shop special Marlin 336 in 30-30 Win. Many have came and went since then, and unfortunately I don't own any of the aforementioned guns anymore due to circumstances beyond my control. My current acquisitions are nicer and more expensive than any of my 1st firearms, but none of them bring me the same pride of ownership as those guns that made a shooter out of me.
I very much enjoy your videos. I find them very informative. Thank you.
Rim fire cartridges were the first cartridges ....made before center fire the Henry rifle was in .44 rim fire and had two firing pins in order to increase the reliability of the rifle.
The Stevens falling block action rifles would be similar to the rook rifles. Mine are in .25 RF,
and .32 Long RF as well as .22 RF. Thank you for your wonderful video. I really enjoy your enthusiasm and knowledge sharing content.
Beautiful rifles!
Interest you said!! For sure!! Beautiful elegant and well made light rifles!! Too bad that no ones is making them now a day and affordable would be great!! That Martini is sure one amazing looking rifle, a dream rifle for sure!!!
What bueatful guns your sharing today.
Thank you
the poms make the best classic rifles & guns, fly reels & also the best classic cars...
It's true CRE - the poms, on their island(s) - seem to think a little differently. Things that are classic and last. Good things.
My grandfather is rather fond 9f their motorcycles
Simply spectacular!
I used to see a few of these at auctions. Not so often any more. I always loved the simple clean lines of them but they were almost always some unobtainium calibre. I remember seeing some in 9mm ish type calibre. Knowing what I know now it would be interesting to try and produce home loads for them. I am a fan of 38/357. So easy to reload straight wall cases and very effective in the right circumstances. 32 calibre would also be interesting I think. Thanks for the vid. Enjoyable as always. 😊
Another awsome video.
Beautiful little rifles/shotguns. Thanks for sharing.
Beautiful, elegant and wonderful little rifles, those Rook/garden guns are! I can remember many times hearing my dad say "they just don't make um like they used to!"Now, 70 years later, I couldn't agree more, the materials, the craftsmanship and the artists/craftsmen who made those firearms, are far and few between! My suggestion is, if you have any of these type of beautiful firearms, is to "hold on to them tightly, and never ever sell them!" Pass them down in your family, or gift them to a younger person you know will cherish and appreciate them as you do! Take them out of the gun safe and pamper, clean/protect them, and slobber over them often, and do not hesitate to use them, as they were intended to be shot....and loved!
Liked to have seen you fire one or two of them especially the Holland and Holland, bet it grouped on a tanner
Wonderful video thanks
Another great video thanks for the info 😃👍
I went on a search for Rook Rifles for sale and i did find 3 so far.. Westly & Rickards and H&H and one other .. Really i had no idea as in gun magazines and such i never read an article about one ..
But like you say they are out there, and a person can find one if you look around .. Very Very interesting rifles , quality is excellent on the two that had lots of pictures of every angle .. Thanks ..
I've got a rook rifle that's been bored out to .410 shotgun as many were. It's not due to the lack of ammunition, it's because of changes in gun laws starting around 1920 which made it harder to own a rifle, but shotguns were still unrestricted here in the UK until the 70s
Thanks for the note; now we know. I just bought a "Rook" .410 - still waiting for it to arrive. I have a few - very light and must have been nice as rifles.
The British HBSA (Historical Breechloading Smallarms Association) still run several Rook and Rabbit competitions each year where many of these lovely old rifles are fired by enthusiasts. Most, if not all the ammunition is loaded by hand due to being obsolete. Check out their website, great group of ladies and gentlemen.
Thank you RR - Wonderful association - thanks for the message
www.hbsa-uk.org/
Those would be very usefull around a farm, not overly loud but more power than a 22
beautiful rifles!
A lot of the European "Garden guns" which the English often called "Rook rifles" were in 5mm, 7mm and 9mm pinfire and later rimfire, and in their day I believe they were no less reliable than any other cartridge. The cartridges were offered either in "ball" or shot, and sometimes even "Flobert". However a lot of the European guns were proved for Black Powder, and even though some of them chamber a modern round they are NOT SAFE for smokeless cartridges !!
(Don't use modern .32 c/f in European guns, and especially NOT modern .44 colt in the thin-walled 410 shotguns. However it's great to see these underrated guns getting some exposure - they're pretty common here in Australia, and I have a few in my collection. Thanks for the video!
Burtram in Australia make brass for the 300 Rook & possibly the 300 Sherwood, excellent opportunity to get these wonderful old guns running again
Hi Tim - thanks for this - I'll contact them or head down there once the bug is gone. Cheers.
Sad that such firearms are not common today .
To think that if it hadn't been for the pandemic, we would not have been able to enjoy what might be one of my very favorite of your or anyone's videos. The concept of a sleek single shot in a moderate pistol caliber has always intrigued me. Most single shots I've found were either too crude or overkill. I've owned the Ruger No.1 in 6mm, but that's way more gun than I want for use in Illinois woods. I wish Ruger or someone would come out with a scaled down No.1. The Winchester Low Wall is the closest I've seen, but seldom is chambered in something as mild as 32 Long.
Very Nice i have 2 Flobert 22s at the gun smith now one has a raised block with carved forearm the other the block thumbs back i think older with a plain stock looking for 22 shorts for it many thanks for sharing your knowledge
Thanks a lof for an excellent video. I am a big fan of old rook rifles and have been using an old German unmarked rifle for roedeer for years. My German rifle was originally a .22 but I have had it changed to 30.30 which makes it a bit more usable for hunting. This week I bought a Holland & Holland similar to yours from my gunsmith, who is also a rook rifle enthusiast, it needed some tlc and is still with him but I am so looking forward to get it back from him. It is in 6x60R which is an excellent "pencil" type cartridge. The problem with rook rifles is that they seem to multiply in the gun cabinet.
😂😂...."multiply in the gun cabinet" Great idea - re-working into a 30-30 - the Rook rounds are so weak. I'll have to look up 6x60R - very interesting. Thanks for the note and good shooting!
@@UnitedStatesOfGuns No problem and good shooting to you too. The 6x60R is similar to the .243 in power but as it is rimmed it makes perfect sense in this type of rifles or drillings. Extraction always work and the construcion is very simple. I have a hammer drilling where the rifle barrel is in 9,3x72R and I really like the simplicy of the mechanism. As for the 9.3x72R it is a fairly big cartridge originally made for black powder but in the smokeless powder version it is very light in recoil and also excellent for roedeer.
Thanks for caring thanks for sharing. ❤ your videos. !
You just can't beat the simplicity of a single shot firearm. Thank you for sharing these unique pieces. A reminder of more simple times in the "firepower crazy" world where we currently reside. Btw...your title made me think that you may be showing us some of the unique and very effective air rifles. Quite a history behind them dating back to well before most would imagine.
I have to get more air rifles! : )
@@UnitedStatesOfGuns i don't have any air rifles but am amazed with the information on their development and early use. Most notably their use during the Lewis & Clark expedition 1803.
Looks like Browning sort of styled their 22 semi-automatic after those rifles.
While watching this video it got me to thinking about what classic American rifle reminded me of the Rook rifles you are showing, and it was an iconic Buffalo rifle that came to my mind. Now how does a Buffalo rifle remind me of a Rook rifle meant to shoot rabbits and other small quarry? The answer to such a question is the Remington Rolling Block Model 4.
Thank you for sharing such delightful rifles, and congratulations on acquiring a Model 70 Super Grade.
Fantastic video ... only had an opportunity to fire one once . If have too books you'd love . One is a complete works of 22 cal . And 22 cal digest ..
my 2 1/2 pound synthetic stocked rossi 410 with a 38 cal rifled insert would be the modern version and works quite well
My 1st real gun was a shotgun 20 ga. single shot break I LOVE THAT GUIN ! In shotguns i dearly love the breaks in single and double barrels and pumps, in rifles and pistols, semi automatics in rifles, and automatic and revolvers in pistols > I dearly love my Derringers to ! The Davis .22 mag and in the 38 round ~ They have never misfired or jammed ~ Automatics and lever action jams to much for me ~ I would choose a bolt action over automatic and lever action
Another great video! Do you have Colin Greenwood's book "Rook and Rabbit Rifles"in your library? Very good reference, plus a great chapter on ammo options. God bless you for sharing all your cool stuff, and experience, with a broad range of world wide watchers! Keep up the great work!
Thank you J.K - I don't have Greenwood's book - but I used to; I'll find one again. Thanks for your kind words - they mean a lot to me. All the best to you!
What a delightful presentation. The falling block, did you sat Martin made them in England? Can you expand on it as I would like more info to see if I can find one and price range.
Such beautiful things! Elegant indeed, thanks for sharing!
You're videos are so interesting. I find myself putting on some music and just watching what goes on in the forest - or elsewhere. I'm glad there is a whole "other reality" - with animals and trees, silence - stillness; we humans make such a mess. God Bless and keep filming.
@@UnitedStatesOfGuns thank you! It really is interesting to see what goes on out there. It's turned into a fun little hobby for us. Thanks for your videos too! Always interesting and nicely presented, you are the gentleman of gun channels. 👍👍
I don't think there are Rooks in North America. We have millions of crows here in Florida. I am not aware of anyone hunting them although I have not raised the question. In the Middle Atlantic states hunting Starlings is high sport. Mostly with air rifles, but low speed rim fire cartridges suffice as long as you are careful to avoid shooting beyond the target. The Rook rifles look interesting. I will have to learn more. Great video!
There's just something about the way the old single shot break barrel shotguns and rifles feel that isn't available on the modern market, whether it's the craftsmanship or the nostalgia of a time long past, most modern break barrel shotguns and rifles have a feeling of cheap build quality when you hold them,.whereas many of the old firearms that were taken care of or those used very little and thus remain tight have a certain elegance about them that just isn't available today.
Slightly off topic,..you mentioned "rook rifles " and I instantly thought of a rifle my Father gave me, oh so many years ago, it is called a 'rook file' and the makers name is 'W.R.Pape' as engraved on the receiver.It was a lever operated rifle w when the lever was opened a feed ramp/slide would allow loading of the breech, one cartridge at a time, obviously.
I don't have, nor can I find ( here in Canada ) and ammunition for it. From the box of ammunition I did have the caliber was 25-27 centerfire.
Have you heard of this make and caliber of rifle before?
Now, I wrote this comment/question within the first 3 minutes of your video, so I imagine it's not really that far off topic, is it?
Hi Reg - Nice rifle - I think I had one. Mine was based on the miniature Martini action and the cartridge was 297/250 Rook - I found a way to use .25 ACP in mine. Maybe your rifle is for a different cartridge. Maybe this link will help www.rifleman.org.uk/Westley_Richards_miniature_rifles.html
Feel free to send a pic to me at usogbyemail@gmail.com
I'll get back to you. I wish you all the best.
W r Pape was a very famous quality British gunmaker, right up with the best .He entered in many trials competitions against the likes of H@H ,WW Greener ,Purdey etc held by the Famous Field magazine .This magazine is still published to this this day , I believe it still holds the title of longest unbroken publication in the U K .I can highly recommend you treat yourself to one . They are a monthly quality publication . PS .my best wishes to the Colony's ,regards from old Blighty .
@@geraldswain3259 Actually, my W.R.Pape Rook rifle was bought in Newfoundland long before it became a province of Canada, prior to that we flew the Union Jack here.
So Greetings back at you 'brother'.
Oh, thanks for the information on Pape.
@@regsparkes6507 Hi Reg ,thanks for the reply ,much appreciated !..may I suggest if you are interested , to invest in a second hand copy off the the net of WW Greener's book title The Gun , it is a fabulous book on English gunmakers crammed with information , One can be purchased very cheaply in a 5th or 6th editition. If you read it you will soon realise the British were responsible for 95% of the patents on the modern shotgun as we know it today . Regards from old Blighty .
Pape was a very famous maker of "best" guns of the highest quality. He is sometimes credited with the invention of choke boring but that is not correct. I think that he had the first British patent for choke boring but the concept and use are much older.
Marlon made a rook rifle or a garden gun it was a 22 single shot with no rifling it had a bead front sight
My 1st real gun was a shotgun 20 ga. single shot break I LOVE THAT GUIN ! In shotguns i dearly love the breaks in single and double barrels and pumps, in rifles and pistols, semi automatics in rifles, and automatic and revolvers in pistols > I dearly love my Derringers to ! The Davis .22 mag and in the 38 round ~ Automatics and lever action jams to much for me ~ I would choose a bolt action over automatic and lever action
I would have an heart attack just by visiting your collection Sir...
🖖🏻🇫🇷😎🇫🇷😇🇫🇷🖖🏻
Neat little rifle.
Hi Mike ,I did mention it on a previous occasion .Please go and treat yourself to the comparatively recent publication British Rook and Rabbit rifles , it is a absolute must to the collector of fine rifles , crammed with so much information .It includes a modern reloading section for them in all the original calibre . Incidentally a lot of them ran (300 cal ) with a heeled bullet . My Regards from the Empire , Gerald the old sage !.
Gerald! Keeper of the Realm! Always glad to hear from you. I'm going to get the book - I'm so slow. That H&H has a perfect "hang" to it - so steady. I checked and rook numbers are high - good news. All the best to you!
A few days ago I bought a 4-5 pound bag of assorted ammo. In it were 19 rounds of .32 rimfire birdshot. It has wooden bullets holding the shot. I haven't opened one yet to confirm that though.
@Art Anson It is a case like a .22 with a wooden bullet. The cases are copper colored with a U head stamp. There is some green corrosion at the base of the wooden bullet. I saw a box of them in a post on, I believe, the Rim Fire Central site. I didn't expect to actually see any of the rounds but these turned up.
@Art Anson Thanks for all of this Art! I'm in my 70s and retired as well so I have time to delve into arcane subjects. Being an old guy I appreciate old firearms, the odder the better. Thanks for the links, I will follow them. I just spent over $500 on .25 and .32 rimfire ammo, that's how hopeless I am on this stuff, I don't even have a .25 firearm. Looking at the .25 Stevens ammo I can't help but wonder what it would be like necked to .22, perhaps a cheaper rival to .22 Hornet, the cases are a few hundredths shorter than .22 Magnum.
In a couple days I will be going back to a local gun shop to take a hard look at a Winchester Hotchkiss Model 1883 rifle, five rounds of 45-70 goodness stored in a tubular magazine in the butt stock. If the bore is decent I'll buy it. Forgotten Weapons has a good video on it.
Hi there, that 1st rook rifle your showing there, I have on just like that , in really good condition and am not joking i payed £75 for last year
USOG, little random, ever had a .500 or .450 Black powder express? Just finished reading a book about Jim Corbett and the Champawat man-eater. The .500BPE seems to be a great efficient cartridge for even deer and bear.
.32 S&W seems like a perfect round for such applications.
You're right - ideal : )
Great video brother thank you for your knowledge and expertise I am a new subscriber and I look forward to gleaning over your knowledge and expertise 🎚🇺🇲👍