Sporting Rifle Books

The sporting rifle books include any works on rifles from rifle gunsmithing and practical rifle shooting to shooting accuracy issues and history of rifles.

Richard Akehurst

Antique Weapons: For Pleasure And Investment by Richard Akehurst (1969). This richly illustrated book gives basic guidance to those interested in collecting antique weapons. The author gives sound advice on where and how to buy, points that affect values and hints on restoration.

A G Banks

A G's Book Of The Rifle by A G Banks (1940). The author has gone thoroughly into the many refinements which affect the markman's success in attaining accuracy, whatever his weapon and there can be very few who will not find Mr Banks's experience add to their knowledge.

Random Writings On Rifle Shooting by A G Banks (1948) is one of the best books ever written for the mainly small bore rifle man. Four detailed sections deal with military and sporting shooting, techniques of rifle shooting, technical matters and history of the sport. Every aspect of rifle shooting is discussed including calibres, ammunition, equipment, hunting, target shooting, sights and much more.

Captain F F R Burgess

Francis Forsyth Robert Burgess (b.1850) served with the Bengal Staff Corps in India

Sporting Firearms For Bush And Jungle: Or Hints To Intending Griffs And Colonists On The Purchase, Care, And Use Of Fire-arms, With Useful Notes On Sporting Rifles etc by Captain F F R Burgess (1884) describes powder, loads, bullets and suitable guns including types "advantages of express rifles in shooting moving animals", comparisons to the .450 Express and Martini Henry. There is also a chapter on pistols with the final chapter dealing with shooting in India.

Jeff Cooper

The Art Of The Rifle by Jeff Cooper (1997). Riflecraft has been completely ignored since World War II, says Jeff Cooper, America's foremost rifle instructor. To remedy this situation, he took it upon himself to set down the fine art of the rifle before it was lost forever. In his no-holds-barred style, Cooper instructs you in everything you need to know about shooting the rifle, while entertaining you with tales of marksmanship, combat and big-game hunting. Kindle Version

Keith Cunningham and Linda Miller

The Wind Book For Rifle Shooters by Keith Cunningham and Linda Miller (2006). All other factors being equal, it is your ability to read the wind that will make the most difference in your shooting accuracy. The better you understand the behaviour of the wind, the better you will understand the behaviour of your bullet. The book contains straightforward guidance on reading the wind, techniques and tactics used to win matches and the underlying skills that support both. Let these champions show you how to put together a simple wind-reading "toolbox" for calculating wind speed, direction, deflection and drift. Then learn how to use these tools to read flags and mirage, record and interpret your observations and time your shots to compensate for wind. The essential wind-reading basics taught in this book will absolutely improve your shooting skills, whether you are a target shooter, a plinker, a hunter or a shooting professional.

Roy F Dunlap

Gunsmithing: A Manual Of Firearm Design, Construction, Alteration And Remodeling; For Amateur And Professional Gunsmiths And Users Of Modern Firearms by Roy F Dunlap (1950) is a book on firearms and a gunsmithing manual and reference guide. Kindle Version

Steve Ferber

All About Rifle Hunting And Shooting in America by Steve Ferber (Editor) (1977). In this book, fifteen of America's best-known hunters, shooters and all-around riflemen have pooled their considerable knowledge and produced a work that is as informative as it is intriguing. There's information on tackling truly dangerous game such as a grizzly bear, proper ammunition for the game you seek, to secrets of competitive shooting and how to ensure maximum accuracy for your rifle. Some of the listed contents are: Good rifles, good shots, an American heritage, Calibers and Ammunition for Big Game, Rifle Actions for American Hunting, Rifle Accuracy, Shooting Muzzle Loaders, Hunting Whitetails, Mule Deer hunting, Rattling Up Deer, The Indestructible Wapiti, Hunting Dangerous Game, Woodchuck Hunting, Competition Shooting, Concentration and Discipline.

Lieutenant James Forsyth

Lieutenant James Forsyth (1838 - 1871) was a British-born Assistant Conservator of Forests in Central India. Forsyth was attached to the Bengal Staff Corps and made a complete tour of the Central Provinces of India in 1862.

The Sporting Rifle And Its Projectiles by James Forsyth (1867) includes principles of modern gunning, selection of rifle, shell rifles and some hints on sporting matters wherein is described the crucial test of a rifle. Free eBook

Lt James Forsyth also wrote The Highlands Of Central India: Notes On The Forests And Wild Tribes, Natural History And Sports

Thomas Francis Fremantle

Thomas Francis Fremantle, 3rd Baron Cottesloe, 4th Baron Fremantle (1862 - 1956) had a long career in the British armed forces and was an expert shot using the rifle and published three books on the subject. He was also a contributing author in Volume II of The Gun At Home And Abroad by John Millais et al.

The Book Of The Rifle by T F Fremantle (1901) contains a great deal of material on ballistics, sighting, range practice and more. A thoroughly excellent work. Free eBook

Notes On The Rifle by T F Fremantle (1896) is a compilation of Fremantle's magazine articles and includes information on early weapons, positions, sighting, powders, bullet spin, bullet's flight, trajectories, velocities and impact.

Evolution Of Guns And Rifles by T F Fremantle (1965) is a reprint of the author's original 1913 work.

Lt Col Peter Hawker

Colonel Peter Hawker (1786 - 1853) was a celebrated diarist, author and sportsman who was known as one of the 'Great Shots' of the 19th Century. Hawker was a friend of gunsmith Joe Manton, not only using Manton's guns but contributing to their design and manufacture. Hawker later designed a military musket and commissioned the manufacture of several prototypes at his own expense. Elements of Hawker's design were incorporated into the final version of the Enfield Rifle Musket.

Instructions To Young Sportsmen In All That Relates To Guns And Shooting by Lt Col Peter Hawker (1924) contains valuable information on wild-fowling with a gunning punt, pheasant, partridge and grouse shooting, fly-fishing and deer-stalking. Free eBook

Ian V Hogg

The Complete Illustrated Encyclopedia Of The World's Firearms by Ian V Hogg (1978) is a complete history of hand and and shoulder weapons. All the great military and sporting guns. A-Z directory of 750 makes and makers. Technical glossary and charts.

Bill Holmes

Master Gunmaker's Guide To Building Bolt-Action Rifles by Bill Holmes (2003). Many people today call themselves gunmakers but very few have actually made a gun. Most buy parts wherever available and simply assemble them. During the past 50 years Bill Holmes has built from scratch countless rifles, shotguns and pistols of amazing artistry, ranging in calibre from .17 to .50. He has mastered the art of custom-making all the component parts himself and earned the right to call himself a gunmaker. In this book the esteemed gunmaker shows you step-by-step how to make (or modify) a custom bolt-action rifle in an inexpensive small shop. By following the simple instructions and mechanic’s drawings, you will discover how to select the design, materials and tools; manufacture the bolt, trigger, safety and sights; fit, chamber, shape and finish the barrel; ensure that your heat-treating is done properly; design, checker and finish the stock; and everything else you need to know to be able to call yourself a gunmaker.

Eric Joly

Legendary Sporting Guns by Eric Joly (1998). A combination of superb craftsmanship, elegant design, and lethal power, the best hunting guns occupy a unique place in the pantheon of sporting equipment. Highly prized by hunter and non-hunter alike, the guns and their history are explored fully in this remarkable work. The author combines the lore of the hunt with the story behind the creation and refinement of sporting guns, emphasizing their use in the field. He examines the finer points of the greatest guns in current production, providing specifications on action, barrels, engraving weight, stock, and calibre, along with illustrations featuring both the complete gun in profile and a detailed view of the action.

The Perfect Life Of Hunters by Eric Joly (2001). Covers hunting game from woodcock to elephant and much in between. Hunting areas around the world are presented - North America, Spain, Africa, France, Ireland and others.

Hunting: Legendary Rifles by Eric Joly (2015) combines the hunting with the rifles' rich past, from creation and refinement of each rifle to examples of its use. A brand-by-brand catalogue completes the account, offering specifications and detailed illustrations. This book expertly details the story of the rifles and the world of hunting, relating anecdotes of expeditions in different countries and exploring various traditions.

Norbert Klups

Norbert Klups works for several German-language hunting and weapon magazines and writes test reports on weapons, ammunition, hunting optics and equipment. He is also the author of 15 books about firearms, most of which are in German.

Double Barrel by Norbert Klups (2007) explores the fascination of a traditionally built, double-barreled gun for a passionate hunter. From the synopsis ... "The double-barreled gun is part of hunting, and when you hold an old English gun in your hand, your mind's eye almost automatically conjures up visions of elephants, buffalos, or lions, great antelopes in the African scrub or rain forest, even if you are just hunting deer or wild boar back home. With the detailed engraving, beautiful grain, checkered stocks, and high finishes of many double-barreled guns, they are ideal for your hunting or dreaming".

The Drilling by Norbert Klups (2007) covers the history, use and technology of a 'combination' hunting firearm. "These guns were originally designed for the German and Austria forests where there was an advantage to carrying one gun with multiple loads when hunting the dense forests filled with various types of game, from deer, to wild boar and fowl. The option of quickly choosing a specific caliber enabled the hunter to be ready for whatever came out of the woods."

Jaroslav Lugs

Firearms Past And Present: A Complete Review Of Firearm Systems And Their Histories by Jaroslav Lugs (1973) in 2 volumes.

A History of Shooting by Jaroslav Lugs (1968). The development of target guns, shooting ranges and rifle associations. A history of duelling and exhibition shooting, magic and superstition. A most informative well-illustrated title covering all aspects of shooting. A must for every shooting enthusiasts library.

Robin Marshall-Ball

The Sporting Rifle: A User's Handbook by Robin Marshall-Ball (1986) is a comprehensive survey of sporting rifle shooting today covering history, types and choice of weapons, range of calibres, bullets and sights, their availability and suitability for different game and circumstances. A detailed analysis of rifle sport today.

M L McPherson

Accurizing The Factory Rifle by M L McPherson (1999). Learn how to vastly improve the accuracy of your favourite rifle, whether it's a bolt action, lever action, pump or single shot. Through more than 400 photos and clear illustrations, master gunsmith M L McPherson starts you with the primary steps and brings you through the very latest techniques for transforming your new or used rifle from one that shoots 2-inch groups to a half-minute of angle tack driver. By following McPherson's step-by-step instruction in improving a rifle's barrel, stock, receiver, trigger, bolt and sights, you can do the work of a professional gunsmith yourself and dramatically enhance the performance of your gun.

Tony Noblitt and Warren Gabrilska

Dead On: The Long-Range Marksman's Guide To Extreme Accuracy by Tony Noblitt and Warren Gabrilska (1998). This hands-on manual walks the shooter through every step required to become a true long-range marksman, from understanding minute-of-angle principles and selecting a rifle, calibre and cartridge to mounting and zeroing a scope, estimating wind values, dealing with mirage, understanding bore sighting, selecting and using iron sights, shooting with a variety of slings, performing preventive maintenance on your rifle and using range finders. Kindle Version

Scott Olmsted

Make Every Shot Count!: Get The Most Out Of Your Hunting Rifle Under Field Conditions by Scott Olmsted (2013). The author is a former Marine rifleman and rifle instructor. This book contains all his personal knowledge and that of other experts to present an authoritative approach aimed at making any hunter a better shooter. All the aspects of shooting a rifle quickly and accurately, under real-life hunting conditions, are covered in this well-researched and illustrated book.

John Olson

John Olson's Book Of The Rifle by John Olson (1974) is a rifles 'A-Z' - barrels, actions, stocks, calibers, cartridges, ballistics, scopes, mounts, sights, handloading, gunsmithing and muzzle-loading.

Roger Phillips & Jerome J Knap

Sir Charles Henry Augustus Frederick Lockhart Ross, 9th Baronet (1872 - 1942) was an inventor and commercial entrepreneur who invented the often controversial straight-pull actioned Ross Rifle. Ross became a lieutenant in the 3rd Battallion, the Seaforth Highlanders and served in the Second Anglo-Boer War. He designed the Ross rifle, which was initially used by his own Machine Gun Battery during the Boer War. He was a captain in Lovat Scouts Yeomanry from 1904 to 1913 and an advisor on small arms to the Canadian Government. During World War I the Ross rifle was mass-produced for the Canadian army. Sporting rifles bearing the Ross name were also popular for a time after the First World War, as was the .280 Ross sporting rifle cartridge.

Sir Charles Ross And His Rifle by Roger Phillips & Jerome J Knap (1969) is a well-illustrated and authoritative booklet covering the Ross rifle and its inventor.

Layne Simpson

Rifles And Cartridges For Large Game: From Deer To Bear - Advice On The Choice Of A Rifle by Layne Simpson (2003) draws from his hunting experiences on five continents to tell you what rifles, cartridges, bullets, loads, and scopes are best for various applications and he explains why in plain English.

Layne Simpson's Shooter's Handbook: 500 Questions Answered by Layne Simpson (2005) is organized into 6 categories - rifles, handguns, cartridges, shotguns, reloading and optics - the book features more than 500 questions from active shooters and hunters on a huge range of topics, as well as over 100 photos to help illustrate key points.

Shotguns And Shotgunning by Layne Simpson (2003) is an excellent resource for shooters, gun hunters and firearms collectors. This comprehensive guide covers the technical aspects of shotguns, hunting with shotguns and the evolution of shotguns.

Walter H Smith and Joseph E Smith

The Book Of Rifles by Walter H Smith and Joseph E Smith (1963) contains facts about any military or sporting shoulder arm from any of 54 countries.

Patrick Sweeney

Gunsmithing: Rifles by Patrick Sweeney (1999) is a good introductory text for those who do not have or do not wish to invest in gunsmithing equipment. Topics covered are largely mundane and include: scope mounting, bedding, boresighting, etc. It is a superb book for the neophyte or someone who simply wishes to be an informed consumer of gunsmithing services. Kindle Version

Henry Tegner

The Sporting Rifle And It's Use In Britain by Henry Tegner (1962) covers rifles for deer-stalking and small game in Britain.

Game For The Sporting Rifle by Henry Tegner (1963) is a book about the game that is quarry for the hunter in the British Isles. The types of game considered are all types of deer, wood-pigeons, grouse, hares and rabbits.

S R Truesdell

The Rifle: It's Development For Big-game Hunting by S R Truesdell (1947). A retired US Army officer, Truesdell consulted numerous authorities in this work on big game hunting rifles. While the information covers Asia and North America, there is considerable note of proper rifles to use in Africa with plenty of written support garnered from the likes of Denis Lyell, Frederick Selous, Powell-Cotton and others. There is also an excellent bibliography of big game hunting books and valuable appendices detailing calibres and rifle actions for various game. The development of the big game rifle from 1834 to 1946 - the large smooth bores, the breech-loading medium bores and the high velocity small bores.

Tom Turpin

Modern Custom Guns: Walnut, Steel And Uncommon Artistry by Tom Turpin (1997). The world's greatest firearms, by the top gunmakers. Exotic woods, masterful engravings, delicate inlays and the perfect polish - all harmonized into powerful weapons. These are the Rembrandts of modern guns - the pinnacle of the gunmaker's art. Every pistol, every rifle, every shotgun, every firearm in 'Modern Custom Guns' is crafted with care and designed to perfection. Individual profiles of master craftsmen and women. Custom work of the major manufacturers. An in-depth look back at custom firearms and makers from the past.

Wayne Van Zwoll

Hunters Guide To Long Range Shooting by Wayne Van Zwoll (2006) includes tips on range estimation, rangefinders and wind-droping and how temperature and elevation influence bullet travel. Chapters on the history of shooting and sections on technical subjects such as ballistics are written in plain English. The book gives a detailed overview of rifles and ammunition, sights and scopes, and includes extensive ballistics tables with data on cartridges for deer and elk at various distances.

Modern Sporting Rifle Cartridges by Wayne Van Zwoll (1998) includes the history of rifle bullets and cartridges with descriptions of most American-made cartridges and ballistics tables.

Harold Vaughn

Rifle Accuracy Facts by Harold Vaughn (2000) is the definitive study, made over a number of years, by a leading research scientist, on the subject of why some rifles shoot very well, some shoot fairly well and others shoot poorly.

John Walter

Rifles Of The World by John Walter (1998) is "The definitive Illustrated guide to the world's centerfire and rimfire rifles."

Charles F Waterman

The Treasury Of Sporting Guns by Charles F Waterman (1979). Ten lively chapters explain how sportmen's shotguns and rifles have evolved from their primitive beginnings to today's superlatively efficient, accurate and beautiful firearms.

Walter Winans

Walter W Winans (1852 - 1920) was an American marksman, game hunter, horse breeder, sculptor and painter who participated in the 1908 and 1912 Summer Olympic Games. He won a gold medal in 1908 and a silver in 1912 for shooting.

Practical Rifle Shooting by Walter Winans (1906) is a scarce and excellent book on rifle shooting by a very well known authority. Deals with static and moving targets, rook and rabbit shooting, roe and fallow stalking and wild boar shooting.

The Sporting Rifle: The Shooting Of Big And Little Game, Together With A Description Of The Principal Classes Of Sporting Weapons by Walter Winans (1908). The author describes the process of shooting from stalking to dressing correctly to the best gun for the game. He covers rook, rabbit, hare, deer and wild boar. His writing is based on personal experience. He contrasts target and practical shooting and the best methods for both.

Hints On Revolver Shooting by Walter Winans (1904) is a fascinating read for any gun enthusiast or historian, with much of the information and advice still useful and practical today.

The Art Of Revolver Shooting by Walter Winans (1901). "Together With All Information Concerning The Automatic And Single Shot Pistols And How to Handle Them To The Best Advantage."

Gregor Woods

Rifles For Africa: Practical Advice On Rifles And Ammunition For An African Safari by Gregor Woods (2002) contains a detailed discussion of ballistics and of cartridges and rifles for African game. The author has 40 years experiences in hunting and covers guns from .22 up to the big bore rifles.