Shoot History
An Online Magazine Dedicated to Classic Firearms Preservation, Produced & Curated by Turnbull Restoration Learn More About Shoot History and Subscribe
See Restoration in Action
Go behind the scenes of a full Parker BHE 12 gauge side-by-side restoration.
“Should I Restore
My Old Gun?”
Considering a journey to revitalize, or perhaps even resurrect, your classic firearm? Here are the first questions you should ask.
Stewards & Stories Issue #12
Inspirational people doing their part to preserve history, making memories all along the way.
RESTORATION RESOURCES
Helping owners and collectors of classic firearms understand the purpose, traditions and methods of gun restoration.
Do you have questions about gun restoration? Contact us today, or post your questions to our social media pages using hashtag #shoothistory. We’ll do our best to answer them here.
What’s the Best Temperature and Humidity for Gun Storage?
Humidity: it’s the sneaky culprit behind more rusted rifles, pitted pistols, and swollen stocks than just about anything else out there. It doesn’t matter if you’re in the Arizona desert or the backwoods of upstate New York—moisture finds a way.
Shotgun Care Tips: A Guide
When the season wraps up, we take the time to give our shotguns the attention they deserve. Whether it’s a trusted vintage double, a well-used pump, or a modern workhorse, the principles of post-season care remain largely the same. It’s not about reinventing the wheel—just good, basic field maintenance done right.
What are Damascus Barrels?
There’s something almost magical about Damascus barrels. The swirling, layered patterns that dance along the metal are unmistakable, carrying the allure of artistry and old-world craftsmanship.
History of Nitre Bluing on Antique and Classic Firearms
For avid collectors of antique firearms, nitre bluing represents not only an enduring finish but a vivid connection to an era when craftsmanship and aesthetics were as important as functionality. Let’s take a deep dive into the origins, development, and legacy of this iconic metal finish—and perhaps uncover a few surprises along the way.
History of Rust Bluing on Antique and Classic Firearms
If there’s one thing a collector loves, it’s a firearm that tells a story. And when it comes to finish work, few methods speak to the craftsmanship and timeless appeal of the old ways like rust bluing.
STEWARDS & STORIES
Celebrating the history of firearms and the shooting lifestyle, while recognizing the role of each generation in maintaining these legacies.
Have you run across an inspirational story that you think we should include in Stewards & Stories? Share it to your social media feed and use hashtag #shoothistory. Bookmark us to see our latest re-shares.
Showing Some Love for Pump Action 22LR Rifles, and More: Stewards & Stories #12
Issue #12 of Stewards & Stories includes “Showing Some Love for Pump Action 22LR Rifles”, “A Case for Restoration”, and “A John of All Trades: Winchester’s John Olin”.
Stewards & Stories #11
Issue #11 of Stewards & Stories includes “Granddad’s Gun: A Georgia quail hunter keeps a family legacy alive”, “A Firearms Treasure Hidden in Plain Sight”, and “Of Remingtons, Parkers and Old Pats”.
Stewards & Stories #10
Issue #10 of Stewards & Stories includes “Granddaddy’s Gun: A Restored Family Shotgun Gets a New Life Training Fine Bird Dogs”, “We Don’t Own Guns, We Care for Them”, and “Let it Slide”.
Stewards & Stories #9
Issue #9 of Stewards & Stories includes “Celebrating 150 Years of Marlin Firearms”, “Levering Interest”, and “My Father’s Colt”.
Stewards & Stories #8
Issue #8 of Stewards & Stories includes “10 Reasons to Shoot a .22 Rimfire”, “The Light-Bulb Moment: Converting Anti-Gunners to New Enthusiasts”, and “The 5 Guns that Every Hunter Should Own”.
Want to Learn More About Firearms Preservation?
You’ve come to the right place. To us, classic firearms preservation is not only about restoring old guns. It’s about educating folks who want to know more about the purpose, traditions and methods of the craft – and in doing so provide a glimpse into the work of past generation’s masters. It’s also about sharing the stories of today’s writers, organizations, makers, hunters and preservationists of all stripes who are dedicated to firearms history and the shooting lifestyle.
Together, and with your participation, we can help ensure vibrant, fun, enriching, story-filled pastimes with classic firearms for generations to come.
Featured Banner Image
Featured at the top of the page is a fully-restored Parker BHE 12 gauge double. This legendary American side-by-side, dated from 1921, had been returned to its original factory condition by Turnbull Restoration.
