A study of the various German targeted arms reveals a vast and little understood subject. Oddly, no books in either Germany or the United States have been written on this subject in over 80 years. This eBay listing includes all three volumes in new, unopened condition as we received them from the publisher. Shipping in the USA is included. We also offer the books individually for those looking to complete a set.

This series was originally started by Jesse Thompson and after several trips to Germany and years of work he asked Tom Rowe to complete the series. To accomplish the task, Tom enlisted the aid of coauthors and has had wonderful cooperation from collectors in Germany, Austria, Portugal, Canada and the United Kingdom as well as the United States. Three years accumulating information and photographs have just scratched the surface. The history, techniques and famous shooters of the time are extremely elusive. Furthermore, the German gunsmiths were all inventive and many had a better design: endless variations, new models, and improvements are the result.

The first volume covers the history of German target shooting from the early middle ages to just before World War II, and the early rifles from matchlock to percussion. Also covered are the Bundesschliessen (state or national shoots) and associated memorabilia. American shooters at the Bindesschliessen, Vogelbuschen and the Aydt, Badar, Bornmuller and Buchel Schutzen rifles.

The second volume concludes the Scheibenbuchsen (Schuetzen Rifles), many wonderful examples are shown from some of the best collections in the world. There are chapters on both the Kleinkaliber (.22 caliber match rifles) and Wehrmannsbuchse (militiaman’s rifle). Information in these chapters will dispel many of erroneous facts about them. Also included is a Directly of Makers from the center of German gun manufacturing – Zella – Wehlis and Suhl.

The third volume starts with a substantial section on indoor target shooting, i.e. Zimmerstutzen. Rifles, pistols, targets, and accessories are shown and discussed. The second section covers Scheiben Pistolen. Section 3 is all about Memorabilia which includes steins, spoons, ribbons and medals, posters and other ephemera, and a variety of other items. The final section, 4, covers accessories where we find cartridges and loading tools, bullets, pulvers, bullet seaters, sundry hand tools, sights, dipter disks, gun cases and much more.

Crunruh offers quality books on antiques, fine art, and collectibles for all types of collectors. The books are brand new and nicely discounted. Some may be steeply discounted thanks to publishers overstocks and remainders. Others may be hard to find.

I work hard to keep my customers happy by presenting the best books at the best prices. Customer service is a priority and my thousands of my Ebay and website customers seem to agree. I hope to hear from you soon.