James and Jayne Wigington founded Stratford Armouries in 2006. His family were well-known gun manufacturers based in Bath and Shadwell Street in Birmingham.
James’ great grandfather, Thomas Mabbutt, was the owner of a large factory, The Abingdon Works Co Limited in the 19th Century. The company specialised in Chassepot, Henry, Martini, Snider and Swinburn rifles and actions to the gun trade. Mabbutt bought into Abingdon Works in 1875, bringing with him the rights to supply Snider actions, which he owned jointly with Thomas Batley and Westley Richards & Co Ltd.
