Interview with Sam Garfield, an apprentice at T.R. White Ltd.

What made you want to become a gunmaker?

I always struggled to sit at a desk or computer throughout school, so I was always destined to do something practical. A gunmaking apprenticeship seemed the perfect job for me as it is all handwork, and there is such a variety of jobs within it.

How long have you been involved in the trade?

It has been just over three years since I joined.

Do you have a family background in the gun world? If not, how did you get into gunmaking?

I do not come from a shooting family or have any background or previous involvement in the gun world. I almost fell into it with luck. The gun world wasn’t in my field of vision until I started working in the coffee shop, which just happened to be opposite the T R White Gunmakers workshop. This is where I got to know Tony and Matthew White, who realised I was not satisfied in my work and gave me the amazing opportunity to start an apprenticeship with them.

What area of gunmaking interests you?

The job of a ‘Finisher’ interests me as it covers a wide range of skilled jobs from the woodwork to the inner mechanics of the action.

Why did you choose to join T R White & Son, Gunmakers?

I chose to join them for multiple reasons. One being that I could tell straightaway how passionate both Matthew and Tony are with their work, and it shows in what they produce. I knew I would be learning under some of the best in the world.

What have you enjoyed most since being with T R White & Son, Gunmakers?

One thing I have greatly enjoyed is attending the different shooting shows and game fairs as it is an opportunity to meet other people in the trade and to get involved.

Are you learning a specific craft, or are you using newer technology?

Under my foreman, Matthew, I am learning to become a ‘Finisher’. Passed-down techniques and tools are still used to create an excellent standard, which I like as I feel it keeps tradition.

What is the most difficult gun making task you have undertaken?

I would say the most difficult so far would be consistently producing a flawless oil re-finish on a gun. Each stock can be different in terms of shape, style, and wood quality, so keeping the profiles when sanding can be tricky as well as producing a quality finish with with the oils.

Who has been the biggest influence on your career so far?

My biggest influence would be Matthew my foreman. His high level of standards, good teaching and strive for excellence is what is shaping me to be the best gunmaker I can be.

What do you think you will be doing in five years’ time?

In five years’ time I see myself building more relationships within the gun trade and being a very valued member of the team at T R White & Son, Gunmaker.