The Bird Hunters Guide to Buying a Vintage Shotgun

GUN DOG digital editor Chris Ingram links up with Lars Jacob of Wild Surroundings to learn how to confidently shop for a vintage shotgun.

Lars Jacob began his career as an outdoorsman in 1973, working for a family owned and operated wingshooting and fishing lodge in Tabusintac, New Brunswick. Lars went on to run Old Jake Products, a small game-call manufacturing company, and Jacob Underhammer, where he produced fine, handmade muzzleloader rifles and guns. In the 90’s, Lars worked for The Orvis Company of Manchester, Vermont as a shooting instructor, flyfishing instructor, and later as their gun department manager and chief gun-fitter. Lars also coached wingshooting and flyfishing for Upland Outfitters in Winhall, Vermont. In 2009, Lars founded Covey and Nye, a fine gun and outdoor lifestyle company in Manchester. Simultaneously, Lars directed shoots at the Dutch River Club, a private shooting preserve in Salem, New York.

Lars has been extolled in the following magazines and publications: Covey Rise, Sporting Classics, Upland Almanac, Strung, Shooting Sportsman, New England Game and Fish, and Sports Afield. Lars has also published articles on shooting technique in USA Today Hunt and Fish, Skydancer, Sporting Classics Daily, and Shotgun Life.