Two PHs I met used BRNO 375 bolt actions.
Now an experience with the so called "totally hand built, bespoke" shotgun.
Years ago I asked a UK firm for a quote. Their SXS ejector, engraved, sold for 7900 sterling. I asked if they could build one with monobloc Boehler barrels supplied by me to their specs, non ejector, with stock supplied by me, left unfinished and uncheckered. The action to be left plain, no engraving at all.
Yes they could, they said, but "the specifications would force radical changes from their production line" so there would be a surcharge that came to about 50 per cent if memory serves.
"Production line" in a bespoke gun! Surcharge for supplying the barrels and stock wood and alleviating them of the need to engrave the action and finish the stock?
Instead of paying 10 000 plus sterling I had the thing built in Italy for about 1000 dollars in six months, not three years. The maker hired an engraver for limited extent signed engraving, and put on a good piece of wood because he did not like his guns to appear "undressed" as he put it. It is still going strong 30 years later.
After the above and some other experiences I am a little cynical with the whole "best" thing, and definitely put off by the "hand made" myth. Hand finished yes, totally hand made, I don't buy it.
