Our History
Ray Ward Gunmakers was founded in Redhill in 1961 by Ray Ward and soon became an established name in the shooting world.
Ray’s son, John Ward, took over the business in 1985 and continued to build its reputation for expert advice, carefully selected guns and personal service. The business later expanded into London, with outlets in Knightsbridge and at the West London Shooting School.
In 2008, Ray Ward began making its own guns, fulfilling a long-held ambition and creating a fitting legacy for the founder.
John later opened Northall Guns in Fletching, East Sussex, before bringing Ray Ward Gunmakers and Haywards Guns back together in 2020. In 2021, Ray Ward Gunsmith opened at Bluebell Business Estate.
Today, the business brings together the experience and reputation of all three names, with John and the team continuing to offer practical advice, strong stock and proper knowledge built over decades.
The story so far
Was an exciting year for the business as, along with Dr Hay’s backing, Ray Ward Gunsmith started to make their own guns. This was a dream for both John and Dr Hay as a legacy for Ray Ward, the founder.
Haywards Guns was opened in West Sussex and was managed by John’s son, Jonathan, keeping it very much in the family.
Sadly, in 2013, Ray Ward passed away.
John moved away from Ray Ward Gunmakers and opened Northall Guns in Fletching, East Sussex. In January 2020, John obtained Ray Ward Gunmakers back from JMH Lifestyles along with Haywards Guns.
Due to the growing business at Northall Guns, John opened another outlet called Ray Ward Gunsmith at Bluebell Railway Industrial Estate in March 2021 and the business continued to go from strength to strength.
3 Years in and John spoke about his passion for the new outlet as it allowed him to go back to his roots and with the merge of the three businesses, he continues to be confident in being able to provide all customers, new and old, a wealth of knowledge and experience for all your shooting needs.
John Ward
John Ward has spent over 50 years in the gun trade and brings a huge amount of knowledge and experience to Ray Ward Gunsmith.
His expertise covers both game and sporting guns, with particular knowledge in gun fitting and design. He is recognised as one of the country’s top game shots and has been shooting clay disciplines since the age of 16.
Over the years, John has also worked with some of the biggest names in shooting, including multi-world champion George Digweed and Olympic gold medallist Richard Faulds.
That level of experience is central to the advice customers receive at Ray Ward Gunsmith. Whether you are choosing your first gun, looking for something specific, or need guidance on fit, suitability or performance, John and the team can help you make the right choice.
First class and very personal customer service. Jonathan was very keen to ensure I was super happy with everything and I (as with all his customers) have a life time open invitation to use the on-site shooting range at any time. Absolutely perfect service and perfect experience.
Graeme, Google Review
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A destination for shooters
Many customers travel to visit us because Ray Ward Gunsmith is more than a shop.
We have a well-stocked gunroom, country clothing, shooting accessories and an onsite 19-metre air rifle range, giving customers the chance to try selected air rifles and pistols before buying.
You can visit, browse, handle the guns, compare options and get advice from people who understand what they are selling.
Alongside sales, we also offer gun fitting, repairs and gun storage.
If you are looking for something specific, or have seen a gun listed on our website, contact us or visit the showroom. We will be happy to talk it through.