We cannot include nor compare James Purdey or other English makers in this discussion as they established themselves as a 'Best' guns long before the breechloader appeared and, in the case of James Purdey, even longer before they adopted the Beesley action. As the American Indian once said of their English fowlers, which they preferred and craved above all others, "Feel good in the hands and their locks don't freeze in the winter time."
However, folklore tells us when Alfred the Great sought refuge among his serfs after the Danes pushed him out of his kingdom, he proved that he was their king by showing them the quality of his sword. "That's the sword of a King." "I am your King."
People who can afford the 'Best' normally have the 'Best' All the time.
