Rummaging around in an old Georgian bureau that now stores my shooting knick-knacks, I came across an ancient pair of Millarmitts. They were pretty much standard issue for the keen sportsman last century. Their fingerless design allowed total connection with trigger or reel and the freedom to roll up an Old Holborn cigarette when the ducks weren’t flighting or the fish sullen — which was most of the time.
Despite the lack of finger covering, they still kept your hands warm thanks to the waterproof wool handcrotcheted on the backs and cuffs, while a sure grip on a slippy fore-end was guaranteed by the palms made from string-like cotton. What’s more, they could be easily hand-washed when muddy, unlike the far posher silk-lined, leather shooting