The History of Paradox Guns

Introduction

Paradox guns are a fascinating hybrid firearm design that combines the rifled and smoothbore barrel concepts, allowing them to fire both solid projectiles and shot effectively. Invented in the late 19th century, they were designed primarily for big-game hunting in colonial settings, particularly in British India and Africa. Their name, "Paradox," stems from their seemingly contradictory ability to perform well with both types of ammunition.

Origins and Invention

The Paradox gun was patented in 1885 by Colonel George Vincent Fosbery, a British officer and firearms designer. Fosbery is best known for creating the Webley-Fosbery automatic revolver, but his contributions to sporting firearms were equally significant.

At the time, hunters in colonial territories often faced the challenge of needing two types of firearms—shotguns for birds and small game, and rifles for large, dangerous animals. Carrying both was impractical, especially when hunting in remote areas. Fosbery sought to create a single weapon that could perform both functions.

He developed the Paradox barrel, a smoothbore shotgun barrel with the last few inches (typically around 1.5 to 3 inches) rifled. This design allowed the gun to fire shot loads like a conventional shotgun but also imparted spin to a solid projectile, increasing accuracy and range when using slugs or specially designed bullets.

Adoption and Use

The British gunmaker Holland & Holland acquired Fosbery’s patent and began producing Paradox guns in the late 19th century. They were primarily marketed to British sportsmen and colonial officers who required versatility in their firearms.

Key Features:

• Hybrid Barrel: The smoothbore section allows effective use of shot, while the rifled portion stabilizes bullets.
• Large Calibres: Most Paradox guns were built in larger calibres such as 12-bore and 10-bore, ensuring stopping power against dangerous game.
• Break-Action Design: Many were built as side-by-side break-action shotguns, making them robust and reliable.
• Custom-Made Ammunition: Special Paradox bullets, often featuring a hollow base and hardened lead construction, were developed to work efficiently with the rifling.

Performance and Effectiveness

Paradox guns proved to be highly effective, particularly for big-game hunters in India and Africa. They allowed hunters to take down animals like tigers, lions, and elephants while still being practical for shooting birds or small game for food.

Hunters such as Frederick Courteney Selous and Jim Corbett, famous for their exploits in Africa and India, respectively, used or praised the concept of Paradox firearms. The combination of power and versatility made them an essential tool in the colonial hunting world.

Decline and Modern Interest

With advancements in firearm technology, particularly the development of modern rifled barrels, magazine-fed rifles, and improved shotgun slug technology, the necessity for Paradox guns declined by the mid-20th century. The ability to carry lighter, more efficient firearms reduced their practical advantage.

However, in recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in Paradox guns among collectors, shooting enthusiasts, and those involved in safari hunting. Some high-end British gunmakers, such as Holland & Holland and Westley Richards, still produce custom Paradox-style guns for niche markets.

Conclusion

Paradox guns represent a unique and ingenious solution to a historical problem faced by hunters in the colonial era. While their popularity waned with the rise of more specialised firearms, they remain a remarkable example of firearm innovation. Their legacy endures among collectors, and their hybrid design continues to inspire modern interpretations in shotgun-rifle combinations.