I have a "James Wilkinson and Son Gunmakers to His Majesty" 16 bore flintlock shotgun made in 1822. Wilkinson's books have survived, so I was able to obtain a copy of the page when the gun was entered into their register. In addition to the date, and a description of the gun, the names of the three primary workers are recorded. Unfortunately, the name of the buyer was not recorded - the gun was probably sold across the counter. Interestingly, of the 15 guns recorded on the page, two thirds are percussion. For many, the buyer is recorded. This is the only London "best" gun I will likely ever own.
