Verney Carron going under!

[Hunter-Habib]

Unfortunately, I predict that more sporting arms companies (mostly European but also a few American) will close their doors within the next five years or so. Or at least significantly trim down their production lines. The strongest ones will probably be the last ones standing. Verney Carron wasn’t perfect. But I’m still incredibly sad to see them go. I think that the only remaining French manufacturer of double rifles now, is Chapuis if I’m not mistaken. And they offer nothing bigger than a .470 Nitro Express.

On a related subject, I was quite depressed to recently learn that Browning has discontinued the X Bolt series. This was (in recent years) Browning’s only rifle line that included a big bore chambering (.375 Holland & Holland Magnum). Now, Browning doesn’t make rifles in any Magnum calibers except 7mm Remington Magnum and .300 Winchester Magnum.

 

[matt85]

I was very impressed with the VC rifles I've handled and it saddens me to hear they are going under.

 

[Altitude sickness]

I posted mid year and at the end of 2024 that I thought now will be remembered as a great time to buy these rifles. New and especially preowned.

Materials and labor costs are never going back to pre Covid times. Many companies have been absorbing those costs. Some have either been incrementally raised. Or will need a drastic increase reset to survive. If you look at the books. Most are upside down and are being subsidized by another profitable entity.

Then when fewer new rifles enter the market. The used market will increase in value.
Buy, Buy, Buy

(If the African hunting model continues as is.)

 

[AZDAVE]

Sad to hear this news. I have owned a couple VC's.