Manor & Co .22 revolving carbine

A curious, almost Bondesque creation, this gun certainly catches the eye but what is the story behind its conception and how does it perform?

- Michael Yardley

THIS MONTH'S test gun is a bespoke Manor & Co .22 revolving carbine — a most unusual (but repeatable) custom creation. It is built on a centrefire-sized frame with interchangeable .22 Long Rifle (LR) and .22 Magnum cylinders (in .22 LR the cylinder capacity is nine shots; in .22 Magnum, eight). The gun weighs in at just under 4½lb with a 19 /sin barrel (overall length is a handy 36in). While the Manor carbine has open sights, the rear element can be swapped for a rail suiting Weaver-type scope mounts. [Legally, this long-barrelled revolver is a Section 1 firearm and may be held on a firearm certificate.]

The aesthetics of the Manor carbine are excellent, with London finish and striking wood (Turkish walnut). It was displayed at the World Gunmakers' Evening at the Savoy earlier in the year and generated much interest. Elegantly stocked and re-engineered by British craftsmen, this most curious, almost Bondesque creation could not fail to attract attention. The action is not blued but ceramic finished, with the barrel conventionally blacked, while the butt has exceptional figure and well-conceived shapes, with more than average drop at heel. Though short and slim, the fore-end is comfortable and offers some extra purchase (because of the position forward of the cylinder, wearing a protective glove on the front hand is still advisable).