Books and Manuscripts

London, New York, etc, (1881)-1910. In 10 volumes. Includes the first nine editions (plus an additional copy of the seventh edition, mistakenly stamped as eleventh on spine). First edition from the library of the author, and with his illustrated book-plate on front paste-down. Each volume illustrated with frontispiece and numerous in-text illustrations. Original full green, red, and brown cloth, stamped in gilt, scattered wear and fading to boards and spines, spine ends repaired on ninth edition; all edges trimmed, all edges gilt on first edition; condition varies, scattered wear and soiling; scattered ephemera in some volumes; gift inscription on front free endpaper in second edition; book-plate of Charles H. Milburn on front paste-down of seventh edition. Riling 1088

A complete collection of William Wellington Greener's renowned work on the gun, comprising all nine editions. "Besides Greener's excellent history of fire-arms, each edition contains many pages of foreign sporting notes, as well as advertisements for Greener products. The contents include a history of firearms, with descriptions and illustrations of ancient and modern weapons, manufacturing practices, proof testing, shotgun and rifle ballistics, gun trials, cartridges, powder, explosives, target, shot, and related matters. Instruction in target shooting, wing shooting, game and trap shooting, etc., and the coverage is encyclopaedic. A book of great interest and importance to arms enthusiasts and gun book collectors alike, since it is written in a fashion that pleases." (Riling 1088)

From the library of bibliographer, bookseller, and arms collector, Raymond L.J. Riling (1896-1974), and with his illustrated book-plate on the front paste-down of numerous editions.