If you ever consider ordering a bespoke shotgun for yourself read Mr Hughes book which is full of vital information and will help you get the gun you desire

Steven Hughes presents a fine overview of the making of a fine side-by-side shotgun. The chapters are logically laid out and the writing is straight forward and easy to read. The photography is, for the most part, excellent and adds to the narrative. However, the book is a prime example of why editors should not rely on a word processor's spellcheck. There are numerous spelling errors and typos, especially in the first half of the book. The chapter on wood finishing repeatedly refers to filling the "pours" of the wood. An otherwise fine book, written by someone who is obviously meticulous in his work. He should not have allowed his book to be published with so many distracting errors in it.

If you have any interest in what it takes to build a custom gun, or are contemplating having one built this book is a must read, once you start you cannot put it down.

The book is very well written and easy to read. Mr Hughes describes the workmanship involved in producing fine quality double barrel shotguns from picking wood for stocks, metal work, to engraving. The book contains numerous fine photographs of various guns in the process of being worked on. There are also many examples of fine engraving and case colors that can be compared. He details the time involved to make and checker stocks, metalsmith actions and cut engraving for a Fox gun he made for himself. Although he goes into detail on certain processes like checkering and wood finish, he omits much detail on metal working the interior of the shotgun for liability reasons, and as he states 'this is not a "how to book"'. From this book one will get a very good idea of the time and exacting detail that is involved by makers of fine guns to craft a work of art. This book is a must read for any shotgun enthusiast and a welcome addition to any gun library.