Royal rook rifle

In 1900, King Umberto of Italy was gifted a Royal rook rifle but he only owned it for two months before he was killed, writes Donald Dallas

Donald Dallas

NEW SERIES: In this new Shooting Times series, historian Donald Dallas tells us about the remarkable guns he’s encountered of late By the spring of 1900, King Umberto of Italy was eagerly looking forward to his new acquisition, a best double-barrel .295 Royal hammerless ejector rook rifle by Holland & Holland. As the king of Italy, he had previously ordered several Holland & Holland guns and rifles and in 1883 had granted the firm his Royal Warrant. One can only imagine the delight upon King Umberto prising open the crate, in late May 1900, and gazing at his little double Royal rifle in sparkling factory-new condition. It remains in its original condition today and unfortunately there is a very good reason for this. This actual Royal rook rifle came for sale at Holts…

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Shooting Times & Country (Digital) - 1 Issue, 2-Aug-2023

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