By about WW1, there were no makers in America building guns that compared to the best stuff coming out of London (or out of Birmingham). If anyone came close, it was Lefever.
Were any American makers at that time capable of doing it? Who knows? They didn't do it.
I've handled two of the Parker Invincibles, plus some A-1 Specials and other top American stuff. Some were good, but nice, original Bosses, Purdeys and Woodwards are better.
Notice that Thomas says the Dickson "... yields nothing.." He doesn't say it exceeds. And he is referring to "...thoroughbred lines..."
Burrard liked Dicksons, too. He thought they were strong and beautifully made, but he also said "I do not see it (the round action design) is any better than a bar action sidelock, but it is certainly as good."
Darnes? Come on. I've handles those fancy ones and owned lesser ones. They were all PITA. A mediocre design is always mediocre, regardless of how fancy looking the gun is. Quirky doesn't equal quality.
DMBs are the most overrated guns made today. So incredibly underwhelming (other than in their ads). I'd rather own a Perazzi.
And the Italian-made Purdeys are not Best guns. They're just overpriced OUs for people desperate to own something that says Purdey on it. Again, a Perazzi is a better.
OWD
Last edited by obsessed-with-doubles; 06/05/15 09:09 PM.
