The Stewart family’s story is one of passion, precision, and heritage—a legacy of craftsmanship that spans decades. Originally from Lancashire, England, their journey in engineering began over fourty years ago and was enriched by a decade of experience in Australia. But it was upon returning to the UK that a spark of innovation ignited. A simple conversation with a friend planted the idea that would revolutionize the art of English shotgun making.
Nestled in the charming village of Hesketh Bank, Lancashire, England, James’s workshop was a hidden sanctuary of creativity and dedication. Behind the family home, this humble space became the birthplace of Longthorne Gunmakers. With relentless determination, James invested millions in state-of-the-art engineering equipment, driven by a vision to create a shotgun of unmatched elegance and performance. His groundbreaking achievements culminated in 2010 with the unveiling of the first Longthorne shotgun at the prestigious CLA Game Fair at Ragley Hall—a moment that firmly placed Longthorne on the world stage.
The Stewarts’ dedication to artistry and innovation is a family endeavour. In 2008, their daughter Chloe brought her creative flair to the company, becoming an integral part of Longthorne’s legacy. Guided by two of the UK’s most revered engravers, Chloe has flourished as the designer behind the brand’s distinctive and timeless engraving patterns. Each exquisite flourish she creates is a tribute to Longthorne’s dedication to bespoke luxury.
James’s wife, Elaine, with her expertise in marketing and technical sales, serves as the company’s Marketing Director. Her keen eye for branding and storytelling has amplified Longthorne’s presence, ensuring its name is synonymous with quality and elegance across the globe.
The evolution of Longthorne continued in 2015 with the establishment of a world-class factory in Northampton—a symbol of the company’s growth and commitment to innovation. This modern space is where artisans and engineers work side by side, guided by James’s vision. Here, each shotgun is meticulously crafted, embodying the perfect harmony of tradition and technology.
Longthorne’s reputation for bespoke luxury has attracted esteemed commissions. In 2011, the Duchess of Rutland entrusted Longthorne to craft four exquisite shotguns celebrating the heritage of Belvoir Castle. Adorned with the Manners family crest, ducal coronet, and symbolic peacock motifs, these remarkable firearms were a testament to the brand’s artistry. The Duchess herself paid homage to Longthorne in her book "Shooting, A Season of Discovery" and was accompanied by Elaine Stewart on a book launch tour across New York and Dallas.
A commitment to pushing the boundaries of firearm technology has also defined Longthorne’s legacy. Securing its first UK patent in 2015 for its revolutionary barrel technology, followed by a first US patent in 2016, to date the company have a total of 28 patents worldwide. the company continues to pioneer advancements. In October 2021, Longthorne achieved a world-first, introducing titanium barrels machined from a single piece of titanium—an unparalleled achievement in the world of firearms.
The Stewart family’s dedication to innovation also led to the development of new models, including the prestigious ‘Round Action’ shotgun in 2019 and the cutting-edge trigger plate shotgun in 2021. The year 2022 marked yet another milestone, with Longthorne unveiling its first line of pistols at the Dallas Safari Club Convention and introducing an integral machined ‘fin’ on its barrels for enhanced versatility.
In 2025, Longthorne once again set a new standard with the launch of their 'Peregrine' barrels. Engineered with an innovative redistribution of weight, these barrels concentrate more mass towards the breech end, making the muzzle end significantly lighter. This groundbreaking advancement enhances the overall balance of the shotgun, allowing for smoother handling, greater stability, and improved swing dynamics. Inspired by the speed and agility of the peregrine falcon, the 'Peregrine' barrels embody precision, control, and effortless performance, catering to shooters who demand the ultimate in refinement and functionality.
With each new chapter, the Stewart family continues to uphold the essence of Longthorne—a brand built on heritage, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Every Longthorne shotgun is not just a firearm; it is a legacy, a work of art, and a testament to the enduring spirit of British craftsmanship.
