This set a new standard of excellence for the competition among English gunmakers. In 1883, Holland & Holland entered the trials organized by the magazine The Field and won all of the rifle categories. This start makes him very unusual among the London Best makers, as others such as Purdey, Boss, Lang and Lancaster had apprenticed with Joseph Manton, while others such as Beesley, Grant and Atkin apprenticed with Purdey or Boss. It is not known when Harris Holland started his own manufacturing, but it is estimated to be in the 1850s. Īt first, the guns bore the inscription H.Holland, without an address, and it is probable that these were built in the trade to his design. Although Henry was a full partner, Harris kept strict control and was the only one who could sign a cheque until he died in 1896. In 1867 Henry became a partner and in 1876 the name changed to Holland & Holland. Having no children of his own, he took on his nephew Henry Holland as an apprentice in 1861. He was successful, and was often seen at various pigeon shoots at important London clubs, as well as leasing a grouse moor in Yorkshire.

Although accounts of his background are somewhat sketchy, it is believed that his father was an organ builder, while Harris had a tobacco wholesale business in London. Harris Holland was born in 1806 in London.

Hampm holland