In the storied world of British gunmaking, there are evenings that transcend the ordinary - and being part of Rigby’s 250th anniversary celebration was one of those unforgettable moments. As Managing Director of Pro-Tactical, the Australian agents for Rigby, I was honoured to be among the 250 invited guests for this once-in-a-lifetime event held aboard HMS Victory and HMS Warrior at Portsmouth’s Historic Dockyard in England.
The evening of the 16th of May 2025 brought together a remarkable cross-section of the international hunting and shooting community. Beneath clear skies and a gentle sea breeze, we mingled among notable public figures such as Donald Trump Jr., MP Nigel Farage, and several Middle Eastern dignitaries. Industry leaders, renowned journalists, and representatives from top gunmaking houses across Britain and Europe all gathered to honour the legacy of John Rigby & Co.
The event opened with a warm welcome from Rigby’s Managing Director Marc Newton, standing in the historic shadow of HMS Victory, Lord Nelson’s famed flagship which was famously used in the Battle of Trafalgar, and is world’s oldest naval vessel still in commission. Coincidentally, HMS Victory, Lord Nelson himself, and founder John Rigby were all born in 1758 — a striking historical echo and a poignant starting point for the evening’s celebrations.
“Twelve years ago, Rigby in the UK was nothing more than some ideas in my head and a box of papers in my car,” Marc reflected. “To see it now… as one unified Rigby family, is without question the proudest moment of my professional career.”
Guests explored the decks of Victory by candlelight, watching Rigby craftsmen demonstrate traditional engraving, stock making, and action filing in a vivid display of the skills that continue to define the brand. It was a genuine highlight to witness these techniques first-hand, a reminder of the craftsmanship at the core of every Rigby rifle — including those we proudly represent back home in Australia.
As the sun set, Melissa Rigby, a direct descendant of founder John Rigby, led a formal procession bearing the company banner, accompanied by the Waterloo Band and Bugles of the 7th Battalion. The newly composed John Rigby’s Gunmakers March by Pipe Major John Calum MacKenzie rang out across the dockyard — a stirring tribute to Rigby’s legacy.
We then transitioned to HMS Warrior, reflecting Rigby’s Victorian-era innovations, including the iconic Rising Bite and the legendary .416 Rigby cartridge. The setting was perfect. As we gathered on deck, two Spitfires roared overhead in a dramatic aerial display — a nod to British engineering excellence and heritage. On board, the Honourable Artillery Company’s Pikemen and Musketeers brought the past to life in full regalia.
Dinner was held below decks — a true celebration of British hospitality: English asparagus with Dorset crab, braised wild fallow shank, and a prune and Armagnac Bakewell tart, expertly paired with fine wines. During the meal, Marc gave his second address, touching on Britain’s role in shaping the modern world during the Victorian period, aligning perfectly with Rigby’s own rise during that era.
Earlier in the week, I had the privilege of attending one of the exclusive VIP dinners in Nelson’s cabin, hosted by Rigby and prepared by game chef Mike Robinson. It was here that the new Victory Edition rifles were unveiled — masterpieces incorporating oak reclaimed from HMS Victory herself. Orders were sealed in true Rigby style: guests signed their name into an official document, commemorating the momentous occasion, followed by shouting “Fire!” through Nelson’s window, triggering a live cannon blast from below deck. Let’s just say the Royal Navy police weren't quite prepared for the enthusiasm.
Each Victory Edition rifle features an inlaid oak ‘V’ for Victory in the forend — timber that once felt the boots of Nelson himself. It’s hard to imagine a more meaningful connection between gunmaking, history, and tradition.
Proceeds from the Victory Edition will support the ongoing restoration of HMS Victory, with 5% of each sale going directly toward preserving this national treasure. As Donald Trump Jr., one of the first to place an order, put it: “What Rigby has accomplished this week isn’t just about celebrating history — it’s about making history.”
Friday’s gala finale was a fitting close to a remarkable week. Throughout the evening, Rigby’s commitment to conservation stood shoulder to shoulder with its craft. Over the past decade, Rigby has contributed more than one million dollars to conservation efforts. That ethos was reflected in the gifts presented to guests: 250 bracelets made from melted snares recovered from the African bush, created in partnership with Blood Origins to support anti-poaching work.
Many guests also left with copies of Rigby Resurrection, the newly released 350-page volume by Marc Newton and firearms historian Diggory Hadoke, documenting the brand’s revival. Limited to just 1,000 numbered copies, it’s a must-have for any Rigby enthusiast.
As a final highlight, guests gathered topside for a stirring performance from the Pipes and Drums of the London Scottish Regiment, complete with cannon fire, musket volleys, and a dramatic fireworks display over Portsmouth Harbour. A fitting tribute to a brand that continues to define excellence in the modern world.
Throughout the event, guests were given an exclusive look at Rigby’s 250th Anniversary Special Edition rifles — a commemorative release limited to only 250 rifles, offered in both .275 Rigby and .416 Rigby. These rifles embody Rigby’s timeless design and craftsmanship, created to honour the anniversary with both historical significance and modern excellence. A rare opportunity for collectors and hunters alike to be a part of this landmark moment by owning their very own piece of Rigby history, something that will be treasured for generations to come – very few of which are still available to order at the time of writing this article.
As Marc Newton said in his final remarks: “This celebration marks not just our past, but the beginning of our next chapter.”
And from where I stood — surrounded by friends, legends of the industry, and the unmistakable pride of British gunmaking — it was clear that Rigby’s best chapters are still being written.