Gun Stories Presented by MidwayUSA Season 8 Episode 10 Larry Potterfield's Matched Purdey Shotguns

Larry Potterfield's Matched Purdey Shotguns is the tenth episode of season eight of Gun Stories Presented by MidwayUSA. In this episode, host Joe Mantegna explores the history and craftsmanship behind a pair of matched Purdey shotguns commissioned by Larry Potterfield, the founder of MidwayUSA.

The episode begins with a brief overview of the Purdey company, which is one of the most renowned gunmakers in the world. Founded in 1814 by James Purdey, the company has a long history of creating some of the most exquisite and reliable firearms available. Mantegna explains that Purdey shotguns are considered the epitome of English gunmaking and are highly sought-after by collectors and hunters alike.

Mantegna then introduces Larry Potterfield, who commissioned a pair of matched Purdey shotguns in 2014 to celebrate the company's bicentennial. Potterfield, a lifelong hunter and gun enthusiast, wanted to create a unique and valuable set of guns that would become a treasured family heirloom.

The episode delves into the process of creating the matched Purdey shotguns, which involved a team of skilled craftsmen working together to create two identical guns. Mantegna explains that Purdey shotguns are built using traditional techniques, including hand-forging the barrels and hand-checkering the stocks. The result is a beautiful shotgun that not only looks stunning but also functions flawlessly.

Mantegna also highlights the features of the matched Purdey shotguns, including the intricate engravings on the barrels and receiver, as well as the custom-fitted stocks and forearms. Potterfield explains that he wanted the guns to be as functional as they were beautiful, which is why he chose to have adjustable chokes installed.

Throughout the episode, Mantegna and Potterfield discuss the history of Purdey shotguns and their importance in the world of hunting and gun collecting. They explore the different types of Purdey shotguns, including the sidelock, the self-opening mechanism, and the round-body.

The episode also features interviews with other experts in the field of gunmaking, who provide additional insights into the creation and value of Purdey shotguns. These experts explain that Purdey shotguns are among the most valuable firearms in the world and are highly sought-after by collectors and hunters alike.

As the episode comes to a close, Mantegna and Potterfield reflect on the beauty and craftsmanship of the matched Purdey shotguns. They both express their satisfaction with the final product and their hopes that the guns will be passed down through generations of Potterfield's family.

Overall, Larry Potterfield's Matched Purdey Shotguns is a fascinating exploration of the history and craftsmanship behind one of the world's most extraordinary shotguns. The episode provides valuable insights into the techniques used by Purdey gunmakers and highlights the importance of preserving traditional gunmaking methods.