The Worshipful Company of

GUNMAKERS

Established by Royal Charter in 1637

The Worshipful Company of Gunmakers is an ancient Livery of the City of London that ensures the safety of firearms, upholds the best standards of British gunmaking and furthers good fellowship among an exclusive and active membership

Chelsea Pensioners’ Visit 2025

August 19, 2025
153 years of military service paraded at The Proof House when eight In-Pensioners from The Royal Hospital Chelsea visited on Tuesday 12 August 2025. Despite the 31°C they looked magnificent in their ‘Scarlets’ (never ‘Reds’) and their gleaming medals, so much so that the Master matched them in fighting off a chill by donning his […] The post Chelsea Pensioners’ Visit 2025 appeared first on Worshipful Company of Gunmakers.

Restoration of the Gunmakers’ Charter

By John Allen • August 18, 2025
As our Clerk announces every year at the Nomination Dinner for the new Master, the organisation and operation of our Company is governed by two documents: our Charter, granted by King Charles I in 1637; and the Ordinances granted by his son, King Charles II, in 1670. Both are illuminated documents, inscribed on vellum, which […] The post Restoration of the Gunmakers’ Charter appeared first on Worshipful Company of Gunmakers.

Strengthening Ties with West Ham Sea Cadets

By John Allen • August 2, 2025
On 22 May, we were delighted to formalise our affiliation with the West Ham Sea Cadet Unit in a ceremony at their Canning Town HQ. The Master presented an affiliation certificate, a naval cannon trophy for future competitions, and a £500 donation on behalf of our Charity, the Gunmakers Trust. A follow-up visit to the Proof […] The post Strengthening Ties with West Ham Sea Cadets appeared first on Worshipful Company of Gunmakers.

The Livery of the Worshipful Company of Gunmakers

Founded by Royal Charter in 1637, during the reign of King Charles I, the Worshipful Company of Gunmakers is one of the ancient Livery Companies of the City of London. Established to uphold the safety and quality of firearms through the process of proof. The Company continues to carry out this vital statutory role today at its headquarters, the historic grade II listed London Proof House.


The Gunmakers’ Livery is both a working body and a fellowship. It brings together professionals from across the gun trade, alongside members from many walks of life who share an interest in heritage, craftsmanship, apprenticeships, philanthropy and public service. Guided by its traditions yet engaged with the present, the Company combines three key purposes:


  • Proof & Safety – Ensuring every firearm sold in the UK meets exacting standards of safety and strength, through testing at the London Proof House.


  • Heritage & Craftsmanship – Preserving nearly 400 years of living history, celebrating the art, craft and mystery of British gun making. Supporting apprentices, accrediting gunmakers and Master gunmakers. And through the Heritage & Collections Committee, safeguarding the Company’s unique collection and archives.


  • Fellowship – Welcoming individuals from all backgrounds but with a shared passion for the art, craft, mystery and heritage of gun making while enjoying a full calendar of social events.


As with all Livery Companies, the Gunmakers play an active part in the life of the City of London, supporting the Mayoralty, City Corporation, wider civic duties, engaging in charitable endeavours, and maintaining traditions that stretch back centuries.


At its heart, the Worshipful Company of Gunmakers exists to protect the public, sustain the highest standards of craftsmanship, and uphold a proud legacy within the fabric of the City.

Gunmakers Livery

Whilst we are an exclusive livery we are also inclusive, in that we always consider applications from those who have a genuine love of what we represent and do, and are willing to help us actively.

Fellowship

The Gunmakers Livery is a family of likeminded people creating bonds that last a lifetime among an exclusive membership.

Events

Our Clerks Office organise over sixty events a year with a single guiding principal: Events that money can't buy.

City of London

As a Livery of the City of London we participate in a number of Civic duties including the election of the Lord Mayor of London.

The Proof House

One of only two ancient working Livery in the City of London. The Worshipful Company of Gunmakers still runs the London Proof House.

Our Military Affiliations