Frank Malin was ahead of the curve,today its OK; for Purdey to import actions and barrels from Italy, finish same and Market them as a Purdey!My how perspective changes over time.
I first met Frank Malin 1978-9 at that time he was manager of a gun shop in Woodstock, Ontario,named, "Ontario Gun Sports." The store was owned by Frank,s brother; who was unfortunately killed in a U.K. car accident.
Following the death of his brother, Frank established a gun making busines in Melbourne, Ontario.He was joined in the business by Ron Collings a very talented english engraver.
Frank imported actions and barrels, In the white, from the U.K. and Europe. the guns were completely finished at the Melborne location.U.K. proof testing was an optional extra. By this time Frank had hired from the U.K.
Tony Tomlinson, actioner, ex; Churchill *
David Catchpole,stocker,ex; Holland & Holland and Gallyons*
Peter Cook,engraver and actioner.
[*both sadly deceased]
The guns produced were in the best English style and sold for 50% of the cost of English guns of the period.
Frank ever the business promoter, decided to make agun as a wedding present for H.R.H Prince Charles.[A 16 G.sidelock ejector built to the Prince,s specifications.}
By this time I had high hopes for the Malin business. I introduced Frank to my late friend Geoffrey Boothroyd.The result was an article in the British magazine," Shooting Times" reviewing the business and the gun built for the Prince.
It was about this time that Arthur Troth,stocker and metal working wizard and Nick Mackinson master barrel and gunmaker became associated with the business.
Shortly there after things took a Turn for the worse,likely due to over expansion. The result was the business was sold to Barnett international[A Cross Bow manufacture].Following the sale, Frank was named Production Manager and the business was relocated to London ,Ontario.[The book,"Game Gun" by Richard Grozik,contains many pictures of the Malin shop in London and the craftsmen Employed].
The next chapter is a grey area! The business was relocated to Florida and the company name was changed to Saxon Arms.It was at this time I believe that some guns were made that carried the name, Charles Boswell.
Whilst in this transition the Ontario Provincial police charged Malin with 23 counts of fraud and one count of theft.Frank was was found guilty on only two counts of fraud. These charges were related to deposits on guns that were not delivered.
I was to be called as an expert witness, this never occured. The police found that with two minor exceptions the charges were without foundation.
Malin Guns represent excellent value. If you happen to own a boxlock with the Malin name I can attest to the fact that it was made by W.& C. Scott.
Frank Malin passed away on March 8 2006 at the age of 63, God rest his soul.
