The Brits value originality in an old English gun far less than we do. A old gun which hasn’t been serviced over time would be seen as neglected. Adjusting a fine gun for modern LOP is generally not considered to harm a gun’s value. While they do prefer a checkered butt, a well-done leather covered pad on a Purdey is normal and acceptable. I wouldn’t send a Purdey to anyone but Dewey Vicknair.

Though I have never owned one, I think finely done leather covered pads are beautiful on a fine doublegun. I would never devalue a gun because it wasn't originally made with one, if it was done right.

I have a very nicely fitted leather covered pad on my DH 20 with 28” Damascus barrels. It is the Admiral Thomas Perry gun you’ve all seen.





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I don't know how hard it is to get Tony Galazan to do odd work, but my Galazan Inverness has about the nicest leather covered pad I have ever owned. The second best is one done by a stockmaker on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. It is a beautiful square cornered leather cover over a Silver pad with very nice leather covered plugs. Unfortunately, he does not do such work any more.