Smith & Torok .410

THIS month’s test gun is a London-made 30in .410 side-by-side sidelock by Smith & Torok. It is made on the Purdey-Beesley self-opening system with a rounded action bar. Maker Alex Torok is one of a team of ex-Purdey men who set up independently in 2013. Sadly, Mike Smith died four years ago but Torok continues under the joint name in tribute to his friend and former bench colleague.

First impressions are of an elegant small-bore finished to highest London standard. This attractive but not over-gaudy little gun weighs 5 1/2lb. It balances on the hinge pin. It feels