Not sure if it was the case in England, but, a gun that was broken or unusable, circa 1930-1938 might have put a rural family that much closer to starvation here in the states. “Farmstead Repairs” were a thing, and the owner probably didn’t care if the screw slot was perfect when he got the gun back together, as long as it worked, and might provide a bunny or two to supplement his larder.
My Dad had chores that involved pan fishing and squirrel hunting several times a week. They were not negotiable. It was expected. Squirrels could be sold at the farmers market, a dressed pair brought two bits. Fur had to be on the tree rats, as unscrupulous folk would slip a house cat in to the mix.
Things were much closer to the bone, in that era.
Best,
Ted
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