It’s a grail gun for anyone who might know what I’m talking about, and if you don’t - well, welcome to the club of the relatively recently converted.

My Journey to the Registered Magnum

If my face wasn’t clue enough, I’m a relatively young man and collector. Over the past decade, my focus on collecting and research has been in the world of espionage, both real world and fictional, defensive handguns, and service weapons - specifically in the pursuit of research for both my book LICENSED TROUBLESHOOTER - THE GUNS OF JAMES BOND, and aiding in the research of Jack Carr’s CRY HAVOC.

In the last few years in particular, with my book (at the time) being in the editing phase, I began opening my eyes to other guns and eras I hadn’t familiarized myself with as of yet. Around the same time, my good friend Eli Duckworth, had also become enamored with the wheel gun. If you know Eli at all, that means he went all in, and fast. Around the same time he was acquiring his first grail in the Smith & Wesson line-up - a Triple Lock, I was securing the base gun for a grail of my own, the 2nd Model Hand Ejector that would later become my “Raiders” build.

I remember working in my gun room on the phone with Eli as he told me all about how he had finally locked down a Triple Lock - and I asked him what the next grail would be. It was then he first told me about the Registered Magnum.

We have a shared love of the Pre-War Smith & Wesson long action, and I had already considered them to be some of the best built and shooting guns in the history of the brand. But that day, I was introduced to another level of Smith & Wesson craftsmanship. In nearly hushed tones (hardly believable if you know either of us) Eli and I started talking about the Registered Magnum and its history. I was hooked immediately. We both agreed that these were mythical unicorns that would be crown jewels, something we’d be chasing for years to come. Sometime after he would visit Ken Hackathorn and shoot Ken’s Registered Magnum - a true privilege that only served to make this gun even more of a desired piece after being regaled with its performance.

WATCH - ELI & KEN ON THE REG MAG

As time went on, (and not very much time mind you) he would stumble into his very own 6.5” gun at a local shop on his way to American Fighting Revolver’s RevolverFest. I was meant to be joining him, but had cancelled my tickets due to the publication delays of CRY HAVOC - which was launching the same week - I haven’t missed a Jack Carr book tour since beginning to go with ONLY THE DEAD, and I certainly wasn’t going to miss one as important to me as CRY HAVOC. So, instead of shooting the Registered Magnum that week, I was instead blown up with endless photos and tales of the gun’s absolute beauty and damn-near mythical shooting capabilities in the classes it was immediately fielded in. If I wasn’t gunning for a Registered Magnum before then - I sure as hell was after.

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It would take a minute to find the right gun and timing - auctions are all about sheer, gambling-levels of luck - to get something within my budget, and yet somehow, the gun that did manage to check all of those boxes was just a beautiful, honey of an example - complete with the original matching box, copies of the original invoices and registration receipt, and in a matching 6.5” barrel length.

In a true full-circle moment, I would win my gun at Rock Island Auction alongside Eli and the 1911 Syndicate gang and two friends I grew up behind the gun counter with - Jordan & Drew. Grail guns are cool. But despite the cliche sounding, yearbook signature crap I’m about to say - they’re even cooler when you actually get to experience the victory with friends, immediately handle it with one another afterwards, and go out for a celebratory meal as we all discuss our spoils of war.

I love the auction experience, and it now gets to be part of the history and story of this gun, which began when it was manufactured in 1938. So, that’s the journey - let’s get to the gun.

Brief History of the Smith & Wesson Registered Magnum

At the height of the gangster era in the early 1930’s - lawmen were severely outgunned, finding that their heavily armed outlaw opposition, paired with padded body armor and robust vehicles (peak American manufacturing) were too much to overcome. This kicked off the “cartridge wars” with Colt developing the Super 38 and Smith & Wesson, in conjunction with Elmer Keith and Phil Sharpe developing the first Magnum load and a handgun robust enough to handle it - the .357 Magnum.

The new cartridge was designed in the same diameter as .38 - but with an elongated case to prevent improper loading in models not able to withstand the extreme pressures of .357 - which out of the 8 3/4” factory barrel was lauded as being able to exceed 1,500 fps.

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S&W would use a hand-built and heat treated .38/44 Outdoorsman for initial testing, and would land on the large N frame of that design for their new pistol as well. The recoil was found to be so intense and unpleasant with the thin service stocks that Keith would recommend larger stock panels, which would become standard issue on the Registered Magnum, known as Magna stocks. These are essentially beefed up service stocks in design.

The standard service stocks remained an option and could be paired with a grip adapter, which used two stock plates underneath the service stocks and a rounded centerpiece which affixed to them, neatly filling the gap between the bottom of the trigger guard and the grip itself. This prevents heavy shifting in the hand during the recoiling action of the gun, making the overall shooting experience more pleasurable, in addition to providing more control and faster follow-up shots.

In preparation for the building of their finest production gun of all time, Douglas Wesson hand-picked three of his finest craftsman to bring the Registered Magnum to life. The hand-fitted and devout attention paid to the guns would only be matched by their customization. I know tailors that would be envious of the bespoke options afforded to clients of Smith & Wesson when designing their perfect .357 Magnum revolver. When ordered, nearly the entire gun bespoke process - barrel length, sights, trigger weight, stocks, how the gun was sighted in, with what ammunition, and at what range.

The gun’s official model was simply “The .357 S&W Magnum” - but the firm’s addition of a registration number to the gun - unrelated to the serial number - and a card included with the revolver to send back to the company for an official certificate, led to it being simply known as the “Registered Magnum.” These certificates were personally signed by Douglas Wesson as a presentation quality assurance of quality.

What Smith & Wesson expected was a price-point gun, something that would be aspirational, and limited in ordering - something to say that they did it, a mantle hanging achievement for the firm.

How wrong were they.

The Introduction of the Registered Magnum

The Registered Magnum quickly found favor with a robust marketing launch in 1935 including the above article by Elmer Keith in AMERICAN RIFLEMAN which documented Keith’s initial thoughts on a long-barreled trial pistol sent his way - quickly put to work annihilating the local jack rabbit population.

The Registered Magnum fever was real, with one even being ordered by one Lieutenant Colonel George S. Patton Jr, while stationed in Hawaii in 1935. His gun would be shipped to him in the ahola state the same year and would be marked as Registration No. 506. Patton would modify the gun with custom ivory stocks bearing his initials, and famously dubbed the 3.5” gun his “killing gun” - carrying it in a brace of pistols alongside his Colt’s Single Action Army (also wearing ivory stocks) in WWII.

Colonel Charles Askins Jr. - a self proclaimed “unrepentant sinner” and the man to log the (likely) first kill on record with a .44 Magnum in the jungles of Vietnam also was the proud owner of a Registered Magnum - a stunning engraved example.

Douglas Wesson so fervently believed in his gun that brought his 8 3/4” Registered Magnum on a world-wide hunting tour where he killed moose, elk, and so much more with it to emphasize its prowess and power.

See Wesson’s gun, alongside Sharpe’s and Keith’s .38/44 presented by my friend Keith Ford and Steve O on the floor of RIAC below. Excellent video on the origins of the cartridge from two savants.

In total, only 5,500 Registered Magnums were manufactured before Smith & Wesson determined the practice of registering the guns to be far too complicated and cumbersome, leading to what is known today as “non-registered” or “non-reg” magnums. These pre-war non-regs are even fewer in quantity, and are heavily sought after by collectors.

The Registered Magnum Checkering

In addition to the fit, finish, and customization afforded to buyers of the Registered Magnum, every gun was built with a hand checkered top strap, with the intent to reduce glare. Whether or not it does is irrelevant - because it’s absolutely gorgeous.

The checkering, which begins at the hammer spur, carries through the frame and across the top strap of the barrel flawlessly. The humpback hammer combined with the fine, roughly 60 lines per inch checkering makes cocking the hammer incredibly easy. Absurdly well hand-fit internals certainly aid in that process as well. I am a massive fan of the Smith & Wesson revolver, and have spent a healthy amount of time firing and dry firing/feeling the action of a DA Smith, and I was absolutely in awe when I first handled a Reg Mag. That feeling is only exponentially increased knowing its the action my son can know from the earliest of ages.

While on the subject of the hammer - according to Ken Hackathorn, what at first glance looks like an aesthetic choice to retain machine marks on the side of the hammer actually is an intentional collection of lightly cut radiant grooves in either side of the hammer meant to retain oil and keep the gun running hard. Quirks of the time, and visually something I really love.

The Registered Magnum Legacy

“The fine Smith & Wesson .357 Magnum is still made and sold at $110.00, representing their finest craftsmanship both in the high bright blue finish and also in the perfect fitting of various parts. It is a superbly made arm, no better existing.”

- Elmer Keith in SIXGUNS, Chapter 1 “History of the Sixgun” published in 1955.

In the post-war years, Smith & Wesson would return to serious production of the .357 Magnum. Above, Keith is discussing these post-war .357 pistols, known now as Pre-Model 27’s, as the numerical naming system would not debut until 1957. Pre-Model 27’s would continue many of the features found on the Registered Magnum, including the checkered top strap on both the frame and barrel, continuing the legacy of the first .357 Magnum after the conclusion of WWII. The legend of the Registered Magnum would live on in the DNA of these guns, but the quality of the guns direct from the factory would become stuff of legend, exciting collectors today, nearly 100 years later, just as much as they did Patton, Askins, Keith, and so many legends of handgunnery upon its debut.

My Registered Magnum

The Specs:

• Registration No. 3477

• 6.5” Barrel

• McGivern Gold Bead Front Sight

• Deep U Notch Rear Sight

• Sighted in at 25 Yards with .357 Magnum Ammunition

• Sighted in for a Dead Center Hold

• 3 1/2 lb Single Action Trigger

• 10 lb Double Action Trigger

• Graded at 95% + on the condition of the original factory bluing

Of the 5,500 Registered Magnums built, mine is one of 1,439 (or one of the 26%) to be built with a 6.5” barrel. Despite there being the option to cut the barrel to any length, certain lengths like this would prove to be popular, data that would be retained and used in the post-war years to dictate the specifications of production guns like the Model 27.

Even with all the paperwork, there’s not too much I know about the life of my gun outside of who originally ordered it, George Worthington Co. in Cleveland, Ohio, and the Mr. Walther who was the proud owner at least by the year 2000 who at the time lettered the gun through Roy Jinks. Otherwise, its past is a mystery.

Its future, however - is bright. This will be a well-loved and respected piece of history, something that will see use on the range, hopefully used to take some game in honor of Keith, and passed down within my family for generations to come.

In the beginning, there was a Beretta. Not a “Walther PPK, 7,65mm…” but a small, unassuming Beretta, chambered in .25 Auto. Sporting eight rounds in the magazine, and some unique customizations, this handgun was the sidearm of choice for 007 when we first meet him in the pages of 1953’s Casino Royale. It’s a preferred weapon that is carried throughout much of the Fleming canon, until its retirement in Dr. No’s second chapter “Choice of Weapons.”

It’s in the eighth chapter of Casino Royale that the compact automatic is first described. Fleming’s prose here is so engaging, as 007 literally dresses to kill.

“After pocketing the thin sheaf of ten-mille notes, he opened a drawer and took out a light chamois leather holster and slipped it over his left shoulder so that it hung about three inches below his arm-pit. He then took from under his shirts in another drawer a very flat .25 Beretta automatic with a skeleton grip, extracted the clip and the single round in the barrel and whipped the action to and fro several times, finally pulling the trigger on the empty chamber. He charged the weapon again, loaded it, put up the safety catch and dropped it into the shallow pouch of the shoulder-holster. He looked carefully round the room to see if anything had been forgotten and slipped his single-breasted dinner-jacket coat over his heavy silk evening shirt. He felt cool and comfortable. He verified in the mirror that there was absolutely no sign of the flat gun under his left arm, gave a final pull at his narrow tie and walked out of the door and locked it.”

- Ian Fleming’s Casino Royale, Chapter 8 - Pink Lights and Champagne

THE HISTORY OF THE BERETTA

Beretta fits the literary Bond for due to their incredible history and heritage. Fleming’s Bond very clearly preferred things that were almost from another lifetime. If we look to his original car for instance, that gorgeous 4,5 Litre Bentley, sporting an Amherst Villiers Supercharger, we find another example of something that almost doesn’t fit anymore. He’s driving a car, one of the last of its kind, from 1930, in 1953. But, Bond simply adores it regardless of its age. And, regardless of its age, this car is all business, working just as well as anything from that era. Bond’s preference for dated items isn’t limited to his vehicles. And what better manufacturer than the oldest recorded gunmaker in history to arm such a man with? This year, 2026, marks 500 years of Beretta’s legacy. In 1526, Mastro Bartolomeo Beretta was paid for the production of 185 barrels for the Republic of Venice’s arsenal. 15 generations later, the Beretta name is still one of the most prominent in the firearm’s industry.

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Even in 1953, a Beretta chambered in .25 Auto wouldn’t be the first choice of many for personal defense. However, due to Bond’s history with it (we learn that he carried it for 15 years in Dr. No), there is a certain amount of respect, loyalty and love given to the firearm. Fleming truly shaped Bond in his image, and this firearm is no exception. During his time in Naval Intelligence, Fleming himself reportedly carried a FN Model 1905, likely serial number #257024 (This gun from his personal collection would be sold and imported into the United States after his death). While it is unclear why Fleming elected to use a Beretta rather than his own Browning, the selection of the .25 ACP “mouse gun” brilliantly connect readers directly to Fleming himself. It’s little wonder why, when in Dr. No, Bond’s farewell to the Beretta is so beautifully written. Fleming is bidding farewell to the character as he was originally conceived, a spy, a detective, and a man well modeled after his maker. While the selection of the PPK was entirely Fleming’s own choice (Boothroyd encouraged change but Fleming’s choice was wholly his own - a tale for another time), the Beretta was, undoubtedly, the “Fleming Era” Bond sidearm.

LICENSED TROUBLESHOOTER

BOND’S BERETTA

It should be said here that we don’t formally know which version of the diminutive .25 automatic Beretta 007 carries during the novels. Despite Fleming’s panache for granular naming of everything down to the soaps Bond uses - even just once - he refuses to ever definitively name the model of Beretta (or Colt for that matter) he issues to 007. So, a little bit of liberty has been taken over the years in making that decision, with the common consensus landing on the Beretta 418. The problem is, which one? The 418 is one of many in a long line of pocket .25’s of that design from Beretta, beginning with the 1919, which later evolved into the 318, and then, the 418. It’s a lot. I cover the differences and history in great detail in my book. Here, let’s just accept that the 418 is correct, and get to the brass tacks of the design and philosophy of Bond’s carry gun.

On the whole, the 418 is a quintessential pocket auto. Simple, striker fired, with minimal controls and a micro-gun size, though thankfully it is larger than the Colt 1908 Vest Pocket, and is much easier to shoot as a result.

With snags in mind, the sights are fixed, and are a part of the slide, which allows them to be incredibly small, preventing any sort of snags on the blade of the front sight - something to consider if one was to be carrying this in the pocket as I often do.

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Other notable design choices include the manual safety, which also operates as the slide release/catch. Having one lever fulfill multiple functions also helps limit the snag points, and makes field stripping/cleaning the firearm all the more efficient. Additionally, the pistol features a European style magazine release, found on the base of the grip, further limiting the width of the firearm that would be created by a side-based button release.

As stated, the Beretta 418 went through a variety of cosmetic changes throughout its production history, from minor changes such as grip materials, to major ones, like the inclusion of a striker ready indicator, which is an extension from the firing pin outward, allowing the user to check the condition of the firearm without looking. If one had this pistol in the pocket, they could feel for the protrusion from the rear of the slide, and would immediately know if their gun was primed or not.

Through the novels, we are given glimpses into different modifications Bond has made to this pistol. The first description of the handgun we are given is in the pages of Casino Royale, where Fleming writes, “He then took from under his shirts in another drawer a very flat .25 Beretta automatic with a skeleton grip…” What’s most interesting here is the skeleton grip. The Beretta 418, with its grip panels, is an incredibly flat gun by any standard. Yet Fleming felt the need to remove the panels, exposing the magazine and limiting the control of the firearm.

Later on, in Diamonds are Forever we find out that Bond uses tape on the skeletonized frame. This tape actually serves two purposes. First, it allows Bond to get a better purchase on the firearm. The small gun is difficult to manage without the grip panels, becoming a mess of sharp edges from the hollow frame, and smooth, flat metal otherwise. When firing without the grips, the shooter is confronted with these seemingly contradictory descriptions simultaneously, limiting the accuracy of the firearm greatly. The tape however, covers the blank space created by the missing grips, and creates something tactile to hold onto. Additionally, the tape disengages the rear grip safety.

The grip safety is something that is found on a variety of guns from the early 20th Century, and some modern firearms as well. Essentially, unless a positive grip is present on the firearm, you will not be able to fire the pistol. These safeties are controversial, as some are incredibly picky on what a “good grip” is, rendering the firearm inert unless it is just right. In a firefight, where one may be handling a firearm in less than ideal circumstances, this could be the difference between life and death. On the other hand, many favor this passive safety, as it prevents accidental discharges. Considering that the Beretta 418 also has a manual safety lever, the disengaged grip safety really is a benefit to 007, as no matter what, Bond must disengage the lever prior to firing. Personally however, I have never had any issues with the 418’s grip safety, and find disabling it a moot point.

Another adjustment made to the 418 is the removal of the front sight blade by Bond. As mentioned previously, these sights are incredibly small to prevent any sort of snag, but 007 clearly isn’t one to take chances, and sacrifices his ability to aim for an uninhibited draw. In all fairness to Bond, with the sights being as small as they are, a clean sight picture is difficult to find, and could slow down the shooter if they look for it. This gun is meant for rapid deployment and aggressive shooting to escape whatever situation he may find himself in.

While the 418 certainly is well past its prime, it’s one of those guns that’s neat to have in the collection because of its history and connection with Bond. It’s stunning and surprisingly accurate as well. So, while it is disparaged for being best suited for a lady’s handbag, the Beretta 418 has a unique legacy in the Bond canon, and is core to Fleming’s 007 mythos.

The 418 and its history spanning the 1919, 318, and 418 iterations - and a deep dive into the Bond connection, can be found in my book, LICENSED TROUBLESHOOTER: THE GUNS OF JAMES BOND, available now at Headstamp Publishing. This section is one of my favorite in the book, and includes original reference materials - manuals, illustrations, and advertisements of Bond’s first daily carry sidearm, Fleming’s original choice.

GET THE BOOK

Fleming’s 007 is a man of utility and minimalism in his wardrobing. A man functionally packing for globe-trotting danger, in a role that requires packing up at a moment’s notice - is a man who has little need for a robust wardrobe to slow him down.

His most stalwart companion throughout the novels - a navy single breasted suit paired with a black silk knit tie.

As someone who travels often, and usually needs a suit for one event or another, I’ve been searching for the perfect Fleming and Connery Bond inspired navy suit for the last few years.

If you’ve followed me via Instagram for any duration, you’ll know that I am in fact, the king of Ebay shopping. I’ve found everything from $50 Crockett & Jones shoes in immaculate condition to grail vintage watches like my Gruen Precision for $30, or a vintage Hamilton for $100, and all the secondhand Sunspel one can find for under $50. I’ve built most of my wardrobe this way. As someone who started out doing this in college, and in the rough job market of a 2020 college graduate, I didn’t want to burn unnecessary dollars on vanity, but I really enjoyed these heirloom quality garments and brands - and this was the best route to responsibly provide for my family and fulfilling my goals aesthetically.

That’s all well and good, but I kept coming up short when it came to suiting. Sometimes, you hit gold, like with my 1940’s/50’s tweed jacket that is about as perfect of a match that one can get to the TEMPLE OF DOOM Indy jacket, but finding the perfect navy suit was much, much harder. One way or another, I continued to settle for this detail or that, and the end result was functionally fine, but with the amount of time I had spent analyzing the finer details, and living on Matt Spaiser’s Bond Suits website, I knew I could do better.

As I have adopted the Fleming uniform as my own - I love the texture of a silk knit tie and the simplicity of the black, blue, and white combination - I knew this suit was the first plunge I would have to take when working with my friends at Shepherd’s, a made-to-measure clothier I’ve mentioned in previous articles. Now, let’s get onto how we built this “uniform” suit, pulling from both Fleming and the Connery Bond aesthetics as inspiration.

The Conduit Cut

Connery’s famed “Conduit Cut” by Anthony Sinclair remains my favorite way to build a suit. Sinclair’s concept for a suit that could functionally be lived in, while retaining its silhouette, and providing ample room for a shoulder holster is, in my mind, the perfect cut of a suit. The chest has a lovely extra bit of room that gives you that requisite space to conceal a handgun without printing, but the waist is nipped in at a slightly lower than standard button height, retaining the “V” that one expects from a suit jacket while adding in that functionality.

There’s no trend chasing about it - no oversized draping trousers of the modern flavor or the skin tight aesthetic of Skyfall - it’s a suit that when done right can and should be worn for a lifetime, and if taken care of well, passed down without anyone thinking anything of the fitment. In short, it’s timeless, functional, and effortless when on the body.

The Details

THE CLOTH

• Dugdale New Fine Worsted NFW038

• 300gr, 10.5oz, 100% Wool

• Huddersfield, England

THE JACKET

• Roped sleeve heads

• Lowered button stance

• Conduit Cut chest & waist

• Horn buttons, four button surgeon cuffs

• Hacking cut pockets with third ticket pocket

• Wider, traditionally styled lapels

THE TROUSERS

• Side seam pockets

• Single-pleat trousers

• Higher, natural waist height cut

• Tab adjusters & brace buttons

THE SHIRT

• Thomas Mason Pinpoint

• Italian Woven

• 100% Cotton, 120gr

• Body and texture of a very thin oxford cloth, visual interest better than poplin

• Long point (85mm) spread collar

• Cocktail cuff

THE SUIT IN PHOTOS

THE SUIT

Let me start by saying that I’m in love with this suit. I’ve wanted a from the ground up English inspired suit for daily wear for a very, very long time. I had a beautiful suit from Grayman & Company for a few years in a gray glen plaid that followed much of this blueprint, but tragically I sized out of it in the chest over the last few years. Not a bad thing, aside from the hit to the wardrobe. To quote Moore’s Bond and Holly Goodhead in MOONRAKER, “Holly Goodhead: Have you broken something? James Bond: Only my tailor’s heart.” So, I had to start over, and began with as I say, the uniform - the navy suit.

Here, I was given the chance to start anew with a local, Catholic shop, and once again, I gravitated to Dugdale Bros & Co. for the cloth. They’re a quintessential name in the business and one of the oldest, and now proudly the last remaining privately held firm in the storied region of Huddersfield.

Their cloth is the ultimate in English style suiting, and with my affinity for those details and cut as mentioned above, a year-round cloth from Dugdale was the only choice.

Everything here, from the details to the way this suit wears, looking marvelous while being incredibly functional in its range of motion and ability to conceal a handgun either with my shoulder holsters or IWB (the high waist seems to defeat my usual concern of double vents exposing the firearm!) this will truly be my new uniform suit, as intended.

For a first made-to-measure suit from Shepherd’s, this came out very well indeed! Like anything, there’s always tweaks and iterations I’d like to make on follow up garments - perhaps lowering the button stance even further and adding more body to the chest for additional Connery styling - but that’s only to make my good friend Nathan sigh a bit - and frankly, when you know the firm, that’s just half the fun.

If you’re inclined to check out Shepherd’s, you can find them here to book a fitting be it in person in Kansas City or Dallas, or using their remote service. I hang out in the KC shop far too often, so perhaps I’ll see you there or in Dallas during my travels to Rock Island Auction, where anymore, I end up at the Shepherd’s shop to hang with friends and enjoy their comfortable backyard for a cocktail and cigar after a long day of classic small arms. It’s a hard life, truly.

For years I stuck to darker or medium wash denim. I liked the more formal nature of the fabric in those colorways and hardly strayed from them. At the time I was still working in an office and dressed the jeans up - after all - while I was in an office, I was working in the corporate team of a firearms retail chain, so my marketing work ended up putting me forward of the firing line to take photos, assembling guns, or whatnot. I loved my chinos but just didn’t feel like they fit the role well, so didn’t wear them often. Dark denim - that served the role.

At one point, after moving on and beginning to work from home, my wife told me I looked good in lighter jeans, and that they suited me better for daily wear. That, combined with my discovery of MAGNUM P.I. thanks to Jack Carr (as an aside, I still can’t believe my parents never once mentioned Magnum to their kid who watched M*A*S*H and THE A-TEAM religiously) was enough prompting to give lighter denim a serious go.

I never really looked back.

My Denim Dilemma

The light wash denim became the base of every single day. Sunspel polos, field shirts, knitwear, whatever. It all just was a top layer to the denim below. Inevitably, I began trying to find a “good” pair of jeans to fill the role, I was wearing them literally every single day, and tearing the cheaper pairs of Levi’s to shreds in a matter of months, walking the dog and later my son, for miles daily in between tasks.

For a while, I was relatively happy with the Levi’s 501ST. It was a light wash, pure cotton jean that was a lightly tapered 501 cut. But even those wore out too quickly, rubbing threadbare in the seat or in other high friction areas, despite sizing up as all Levi’s wearers do and ensuring that the thighs weren’t tight. After two expensive pairs fell apart, I went my most traditional route with Ebay, sourcing near mint 1990’s, made in Mexico 501’s. These have held up reasonably well, forming holes around the pocket seams, nothing I can’t patch easily and conceal, but the vintage denim market is a hellscape thanks to the poor offerings on the market today, and I don’t really want to spend my free time looking for jeans nonstop.

Nor am I a denim junkie that wants to spend the better part of a few years wearing in my jeans to the perfect fade. I just want a pair I can buy and wear, and call it a day.

My friends over at Triple Aught Design recently launched the next two iterations of their jeans with updated fits, fabrics, and washes, and, knowing my struggle to find a good pair, were kind enough to send both along for me to try out. In the bottom half of this article, I have my objective review of the first pair, including modifications made to one set to better fit my wash preferences.

I’ve worn an assortment of TAD pieces over the last three years since seeing them in one of Jack Carr’s novels, and I’ve loved every piece. Few brands are doing real American made things anymore, so that being combined with quality construction and good fabrics has made them one of my go-to brands for shopping recently. But aside from an older pair of their jeans, I hadn’t taken the plunge on their trousers really, I’ve traditionally worn their field shirts, jackets, and knitwear. But these new jeans were a chance to try to add TAD to my daily wardrobe in a new manner.

Both pairs are dramatically different in fabric and style. The first were the closest to what I had been searching for - a light wash pair of cotton jeans, although they’d take a little modification to get to the color I was after. While I’ll cover both pairs in the future, this article will discuss the lighter weight Kurabo denim, which is now my summer-weight companion jean after my changes discussed below.

The TAD Intercept Kurabo Denim SE Pant

SPECS

• Japanese Kurabo Indigo 11oz Denim

• 99% Cotton / 1% Elastane

• Lariat Blue, Western inspired dyed denim

• TAD Intercept pockets - standard five pocket design plus two rear yoke pockets & additional coin pocket in front for CCW

• Construction - Triple and Double Needle Top Stitching

• Link - https://tripleaughtdesign.com/products/intercept-se-pant-kurabo-11oz-indigo

As mentioned above, I have a previous pair of the Intercept jeans from a few years back, and found these to be a dramatically improved fit. My older pair, a great set that I’ve used in my shop for gunsmithing projects - the weight of the pant is such that it keeps metal flakes out of my legs - were fitted in the thigh but dramatically looser in the lower leg. I loved the construction and triple seam design, and didn’t expect any local seamstress to be able to replicate it - so these got relegated to hard use vs daily wear.

This new pair fit much more like the 501 classic style I like, a reasonably fitted thigh with a relaxed and straight lower leg, without any stacking. The lighter weight, 11oz denim suits my year round preferences as well.

THE JEANS

I also have to say, the TAD pocket layout is my favorite I’ve ever encountered on denim. The upper rear pockets carry my cell phone and wallet well, and high enough on my seat that I’m not sitting directly on either. That also means both of the larger rear patch pockets remain open. I typically carry a Field Notes journal in a leather cover with a Parker Jotter pen, and in the same back pocket as my wallet, making accessing the wallet less than efficient at times. I appreciate the separation. On the front end, the two larger coin pockets do similar things - my keys rest in one and my Swiss Army Knife (or a lighter if I’m out with friends for a cigar) in the other, again, leaving the main body pockets open and available.

It was the wash I struggled with. My wife, upon first try on, called me Sheriff Woody. It’s a fair assessment, after all, the color, “Lariat Blue” was specifically chosen as a nod to the classic western style jeans many enjoy, wear hard, and break in. But the bright, electrifying blue wasn’t something I thought I could make work on me, least of all because everytime I looked at them I started whistling Woody’s Roundup. Part of me wanted to keep them this blue, after all, it’s a timeless American look - but I don’t think I’ll ever be rocking these with “playing with the boys” blasting on the beach with my wingman. If the opportunity arises, I know where to go for the standard wash.

So, with that, I turned to modification.

Making my Light Wash Jeans

I began by first washing and attempting to use a diluted bleach solution (1/4 cup of bleach to 1 gallon of cold water). The DIY article from Clorox and my research on denim forums seemed to say the wash would lighten in 2 minutes, with serious changes happening over MAYBE a 10 minute period. But the tightly woven Japanese denim refused to release any of its color after a full 30 minutes. So, I pulled them from the solution, hung them outside, and hosed them off to ensure the solution was removed from the fabric, and began the next option - sun fading the jeans.

After two full weeks on my back deck, being flipped over once daily to give both sides ample chance to fade, no serious changes had been made. The hope, in addition to potentially fading the jeans, was softening the fabric to make another bleach bath more successful. It should also be established that I let them get poured on a good half dozen times in heavy summer storms, leaving them out after to be air dried.

To add to nature’s efforts, I finally took to sandpaper about a week in to soften and distress the jeans with a 220 grit paper. That seemed to help slightly, and I decided that after another wash I’d go ahead and hit them again with the bleach.

And yet, they persisted. I made up 2 gallons of water and half a cup of bleach, soaked the jeans, and saw no change in the first 10 minutes. After two weeks of light modifications and gentle adjustments, I did the only thing I could do. Like a mechanic finally giving in to a stubborn bolt by taking the heat to the damn thing, I filled my five gallon bucket to its maximum, and dumped the full thing of bleach, 1.25 quarts, into the mixture. A full 45 minutes went by, with me drawing the denim out every five minutes or so to shuffle them around, and provide a more even application of the mixture, and finally, FINALLY, the Japanese denim was defeated and my preferred color was achieved. They were quickly hung, hosed down, and air dried before being machine washed one last time.

I’m terribly happy with the results. I love the TAD construction, the robust nature of their garments make them ones you enjoy using, because you know full well they’ll last. And I really loves seeing those details accented in a classic light wash. I’m only a few days deep into these, breaking them in during a heavy heat wave in the Midwest, but the fibers are loosening nicely after all that washing, drying, rain, and hosing, and are breaking into a soft and comfortable pair of jeans.

Perhaps someday I’ll succeed in convincing them that a light wash would be a legendary offering. Until then, always the tinkerer, I’m delighted to have these on hand.

The CRKT Sting is one of my favorite EDC items, and it appears in a blink and you’ll definitely miss it moment in one of my favorite Bond films, QUANTUM OF SOLACE.

Finding the Knife

A little backstory: In college I was getting frustrated that I had limited access to defensive tools due to rules and regulations. I had lost my preferred folding knife in the last move from campus to home, and so I began looking for a blade that could fill the role as a daily defensive companion, and well as an occasional tool as needed. It didn’t take long for me to do what I always did when I needed something new: that is, refer to the Bond franchise and all of the wonderful tools issued by Q Branch to fulfill my needs.

So, here I was, determined to find a new blade, and I decided to watch QUANTUM OF SOLACE. I was intently focused on the movie, and lazily scrolling on my phone here and there looking for something to fill my need. Suddenly, I saw it, the CRKT Sting. Literally, in the same day I decided to finally bunker down and find a knife, QUANTUM delivered the immediate answer.

To say I saw the knife is really not fair. I saw the incredibly brief moment where Bond pulls the knife and sheath from his waistband to hand it over to MI6, in the moments after Fields’ body is discovered. We see Bond flippantly holding the knife in the air, and then it gets at once wrenched from his hands. In the elevator fight that quickly follows 007 recovers the knife and uses it to cut his bonds.

The next few hours were spent online, searching forums trying to determine the exact make/model of this knife. After finally feeling confident that it was in fact the Sting, I found the SKU number and immediately sent it over to my friends in purchasing at the gun shop I was working for at the time to get one ordered promptly.

How to Modify the CRKT Sting for Daily Carry

When the Sting arrived, I noticed that the sheath was nothing like Bond’s. The back was covered in a myriad of straps meant for ankle or horizontal small of back carry, while Bond’s had none of these options, and was clearly carried inside the waistband, and vertically. Regardless, I was set on carrying the knife like Bond, so I fell back on a childhood of the A-Team, MacGyver, and Q Branch, and began modifying the sheath to best suit my needs.

Step 1: Lose the Straps

First thing’s first. The straps meant for ankle carry were super easy to remove, and they just fed through two Velcro straps on the back (these two are the ones meant for small of back carry). Once I got those two out of the way, I proceeded to cut the two Velcro straps (which run horizontally across the back of the sheath) off at the base on either side. After that, I burned the excess down and fused it as much as possible with a lighter. As the backside of the sheath is what runs against your body, be sure to fuse whatever you can’t trim off with a lighter. It makes it so much more comfortable; I can assure you.

Step 2: The Clip

The sheath sans straps is really the screen accurate look. It’s clear to me from my **many** viewing of Quantum that they most likely jammed it into Craig’s waistband just so he could pull it out and give it to the MI6 agent with M. It became very clear to me that the prop master was unfortunately not nearly as concerned about the practical application of this kit as I, the obsessive sophomore in college (at the time) was. This did little to deter me, however. As I mentioned above, I grew up with BA Baracus and Desmond Llewelyn’s Q—I wanted to make this work! So, I found this fantastic piece of equipment on the sales floor at work (Frontier Justice) called the UltiClip. At the time it was the only one offered, but now for reference the model I purchased is called “The Classic.”

These clips are meant to replace the oversized polymer clips that come with the majority of the kydex holsters on the market. The larger clips frequently make concealment very difficult, as they print under a variety of clothing. Printing, as a reminder, is when the outline of the firearm or holster is noticeably visible from underneath the piece of clothing meant to conceal it. Rather defeats the idea of “concealed” carry. Anyway, the folks over at UltiClip had the amazing idea to produce an ultra thin and low visibility metal clip to take the place of these burdensome polymer ones.

As I wanted this knife to be a deep carry and incredibly concealed item, this product leapt out at me. Unfortunately, the clip was designed to attach with a screw, like the original clip it would be replacing on the holster, and the CRKT Sting sheath had no such connection point. So, I modified the clip too.

Step 3: Modifying & Attaching the Clip

Using a sanding wheel, I cut the UltiClip off just before its ridge, rounding it off on either side. I then used some sandpaper to take any rough edges off. Next I had to attach it.

I initially had a variety of ideas, including JB Weld, brackets or superglue, but found the simplest idea of all to also be the most practical and functional. Using the blade of the knife, I separated the nylon exterior from the front of the sheath, creating an opening just enough to wiggle the clip into. Friction alone has held my clip steadfastly in place over the past five plus years. Over time it’s loosened now and again, but on the whole the simple modification continues to work well.

Carrying the Sting

When I am carrying the PPK on the appendix, I carry the Sting inside the waistband at my 9 o’clock. I selected my weak side so that, in the event of having my dominant hand pinned, I could still potentially draw the blade with my left hand to create distance. When I am carrying in my shoulder holster, and the gun is on my left side, or when I am unable to carry a firearm due to where I am, I place the Sting on my strong side, at the three o’clock position.

As the knife is perfectly straight, it happens to conceal perfectly in these positions. I have carried it underneath a tucked in, fitted white dress shirt, without a jacket, on numerous occasions without incident. No matter the time of year or attire, it works so well. I’ve hiked, ran, and gone through my daily routines for the past two years with this knife literally right at my side!

The CRKT Sting: My Favorite Blade

Overall, I can’t say enough good things about this knife. It’s a simple, durable, and fantastic daily companion. I’m not much of a knife man, blade people are often an entirely different breed, but I found this to fill the role I needed very well, and paired with a folding knife for functional use, it rounds out my EDC nicely. Over the years I’ve waned in my hard carrying of dual blades on the body, but have found that the UltiClip does well to retain the sheath to the inside of my camera bag or backpack as well. They’re an inexpensive and classically styled blade, and I certainly recommend tracking one down if you’re looking to add a bit of Bond to your EDC.

If you’ve followed my Instagram for the last few years, or watch any 1911 Syndicate or more recently The Bond Experience, you’ve likely seen plenty of our misadventures at Rock Island Auction’s Bedford, Texas facility. Before I get too far along in here, I also want to point out that a lot of the very, very difficult to find small arms inside of Licensed Troubleshooter: The Guns of James Bond came directly from the RIA archives. There’s some seriously amazing stuff that comes through their doors.

This weekend, on June 27th - I’m returning with David of TBE and a group of friends to experience the America 250 Sale in person!

ROCK ISLAND AUCTION DETAILS

The lots are incredible. We’re talking everything from personal correspondence and signatures from George Washington to General Stormin’ Norman’s personal GO Beretta M9. It’s a highly curated collection of American history spanning our Revolution to the Global War on Terror. There’s history to be held, a brilliant venue to behold, a bar, BBQ, and great company to boot.

If you’re in the Texas area, or like me and David, keen to board a flight, I’d encourage you to descend upon Rock Island Auction this Saturday. Bar opens at 2pm, and the auction itself at 5!

In the event that you are planning on joining - please hit me via DM on here, and I’ll add you to our VIP list. Just say “Commando Bond” when you go in and your entrance into the hall will be seamless.

Check out the catalog here.

Rock Island Auction Company has been a haven for me the last two years, a place to discover and handle so many incredible pieces of small arms history. It’s an unrivaled experience that’s genuinely made better with people, so I hope you consider making your way out!

RIA AUCTION DETAILS

Now live on YouTube, an extensive discussion with David of The Bond Experience on our travels to Rock Island Auction Company, and what transpired after he shot out of town!

We go through my success in winning my first custom pistol, the surprise history that I discovered after succeeding, and the long road ahead as a steward of this icon.

Expect a long form article here about this gun at some point, but for now, be sure to tune into this video!

Watch the Video

For those keen on travel, David and I will be returning to Rock Island Auction for their incredible, one night only America Sale, celebrating 250 years of liberty with incredible lots spanning the Revolutionary War to modern day. We’ll be there to drink in the history (and whiskey) and hope to see you there!

Find details here.

Cheers!

Caleb

It wasn’t the first of its genre, instead it pulled from the nostalgia of Spielberg and Lucas, inspired by serial adventures of the 1930’s and 40’s that made an impact on their lives. They revitalized the genre, and created a generation defining piece of cinema that has spawned four sequels, video games, comic books, and paperback novels among so many other forms of media.

Today, we celebrate that legacy, and here, in the way we do best - through Indy’s sidearm. By sheer fate, my RAIDERS Smith & Wesson revolver received its finishing touch only yesterday, its holster designed for daily carry. So today, while carrying the RAIDERS revolver, I wanted to share even more of this gun’s history, what makes it specifically so incredible, the process in building the gun, and how it is to be carried in the modern world, 111 years after it was first built.

I’ve also imbedded my first piece on the gun here. That piece is a detailed history of the RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK screen used gun, and the journey in getting it built, and how to get started on your own.

THE HISTORY OF MY WWI RAIDERS REVOLVER

When I first got this base gun, I knew a few things about it. For instance, the age and proof marks easily confirmed that it was a World War I Lend-Lease gun, and the lack of proof marks on the cylinder helped confirm it had likely been shaved. The stocks seemed original, and the finish was in amazing shape. But that’s really where the trail ended - a neat historical gun picked up for the express purpose of this end result, because it had already been modified.

The history of my particular build was recently fleshed out further upon meeting Michael Helms (Mike), an incredible wealth of knowledge on Smith & Wesson history. I told him about the build, and expressed interest in knowing more about the actual history of the gun itself. Mike was gracious enough to help me along, and provided this page from the Smith & Wesson Archives Shipping Book for .455 Hand Ejectors. My revolver, serial number 8480 is highlighted above. Despite the small amount of information on this singular line, we discovered something incredible about my gun - it is a first year manufactured model.

Shipped on July 22, 1915 to “REM A UMC” which stands for Remington Arms Union Metallic Cartridge. Per Mike, the firm’s New York City office acted as the purchasing agents for the British government during this era. My gun would be one of the first Second Model Hand Ejectors sent across the pond to aid in the war effort.

I’ve lived in Kansas City all my life, and the Great War is such a cornerstone of our community. We are home of the National World War I Museum and Memorial, a site that was entirely built by philanthropic efforts in the post-war era by citizens who saw, through the Heart of America that we are here in Kansas City, the young men who were shipped off to fight, and the wounded and crippled who came home. The city witnessed, from the comfort of middle America, the horrors of the war, and decided to act.

Soon after the conclusion of the war, citizens founded the Liberty Memorial Association. In just 10 days in 1919, the organization raised nearly $2.5 million - roughly $49 million today. In 1926, President Calvin Coolidge dedicated the memorial, taking the podium to offer these words:

“It [The Liberty Memorial] has not been raised to commemorate war and victory, but rather the results of war and victory which are embodied in peace and liberty…. Today I return in order that I may place the official sanction of the national government upon one of the most elaborate and impressive memorials that adorn our country. The magnitude of this memorial, and the broad base of popular support on which it rests, can scarcely fail to excite national wonder and admiration.” November 11, 1926

Learn more at the National World War I Museum and Memorial Website.

2026 marks 100 years of this history in my city. I’m proud to call it home. It makes carrying this revolver, built 111 years ago, and rebuilt in 2026 for daily carry all the more special. It’s history in the holster, a gun that’s traveled the world with stories one can’t hardly begin to imagine. A gun that came home, was modified by a local gunsmith to fit the consumer preferences of the post-war American, .45ACP, and later, acquired, further modified, and complete now as a historical and as a family heirloom.

It’s never just a piece of steel. Instead, it’s a memory of now 45 years of film, 111 years of American exceptionalism in manufacturing, and a gun and holster that were both built in their final form in the 250th year of American liberty.

Now, let’s get to how this thing is going to be carried.

CARRYING THE RAIDERS REVOLVER

IWB - Milt Sparks Summer Special 2

As my build came to its final days, I went ahead and did something I should have done much earlier and called Nick Harvey at Milt Sparks to order a daily carry holster for the gun. Galco had graciously sent along a holster to try, and it works well at the 3 o’clock position but too high and canted for concealment at the appendix position. Unsurprisingly, not many people (if any) offer a 4” N Frame AIWB holster, and certainly not one that would pair adequately with my build. So, I rang up Nick, and we talked through the holster. While the typical pattern for a revolver doesn’t allow for a straight drop, he said they would figure something out, and the end result is perfect.

Rather than the typical Summer Special 2 belt loop which is two loops connected as a single piece of leather, this holster has two separate loops to accommodate the custom pattern and spacing of hardware. The benefit for me here is that I can carry the gun at the appendix with both loops in the straight drop as ordered, or, if needed, one loop can be removed, giving me the ability to cant the holster, allowing for carry at the 3 o’clock position with a cover garment like my new safari jacket in the summer months or my vintage tweed in the cooler weather. For a gun I intend to carry often, the versatility is really brilliant.

The holster was built my Jim Wood, an absolute legendary holster maker and shooter. He rang just before building the holster to confirm that it was in fact for a 4” 1917 pattern revolver. Considering the gun was shipped with a 5.5” or 6” barrel in the case of my base gun, it was a more than fair question.

It was great having the chance to talk to Jim Wood, I’ve heard amazing stories about him and his work through Eli (@1776_duck). I discovered on our call that Jim is a massive fan of the 1917 platform, and I had a blast sharing the story of this build, and my upcoming Stembridge style build, when discussing my holster and what it meant to me to finally have it in hand. My thanks to Jim for listening to my rambling nonsense and chatting 1917’s.

Few companies are truly old-school anymore, but that’s exactly how Milt Sparks operates. Ordering can only be done over the phone, talking to a real person about exactly what you need. It gives a holster that same feeling as going to have your first custom piece of tailoring made. There’s a genuine conversation with a craftsman, which culminates in a piece made just for you being produced. Like all good things, there’s a waiting process involved. It was pure serendipity that this holster arrived in time for the 45th Anniversary of RAIDERS. My thanks to Nick and Jim and everyone at Milt Sparks for another exceptional piece in the collection. It will be used!

As I write this on the RAIDERS anniversary just a full 24 hours after receiving the holster, it is being worn, AIWB, underneath a 1980’s Banana Republic field shirt, made in “the British Crown Colony of Hong Kong.”

OWB - Alfonso’s of Hollywood

Part of building this gun was to have a solid trail gun that would comfortably transition from an OWB rig on a hike to IWB in the city. I’ve done as much with my Alchemy Prime, and fully intend to continue doing so, but a revolver has a certain feeling to it while hiking that can’t be denied. Plus, there’s always the benefit of bumping up to my 29-2 4” in the same holster if I end up in serious bear country. It’s a classic thumb break holster that is also friendly for carrying with my son, when hiking and whatnot I like the idea of having additional retention over just a tension screw when dealing with the grabby hands of a toddler.

It’s also a fitting rig given this gun’s provenance as a movie gun, and Alfonso’s of Hollywood being known for their cinematic holsters. Pretty rad to see “Hollywood” emblazoned on the leather meant to carry this gun.

Parting Shots

This build has been a dream my whole life, and rather consuming one the moment this base gun came into my hands. It’s now done, but we’re just getting started. This is a gun I intend to shoot, carry, pass down, and make memories with the rest of my life. It’s a gun that I know my children’s children and beyond will be able to appreciate, paired with an affinity for the history that is behind it, and the stories that inspired the build. That’s the transcendent nature of these sorts of things. I said it at the top, it’s never just a piece of steel. We’ll be starting to make those memories today alongside a VHS copy of the film, I hope you do the same!

Sunspel Riviera

This polo continues to be the basis for a million looks. I now have the Riviera in an assortment of colors, from the classic navy in both short and long sleeve to black, green, and a DR. NO light blue, with another 3-5 colorways calling to me with their siren’s song. Few garments fit as well from the unboxing as Sunspel. Help dad elevate his polo game from the golf technical fabrics into something with a bit of texture, but is just as breathable and functional in the summer heat as he’s expecting.

Sunspel Riviera

Triple Aught Design Axiom S2

My daily companion. Not to knock the dad pack, but raise your hand if your dad’s only backpack for the last 20 years has been labeled by some past employer and is just a standard issue black bag. It’s probably functionally fine, but it’s nothing to write home about and he carries it around literally every single day, so why not up the game a bit. I’m not really a backpack guy, but out of necessity having one for a personal bag while traveling, and this waxed cotton pack not only looks the business, but it’s insanely functional as well. Love that it’s a fabric that ages and improves further with use.

Triple Aught Design

Alchemy Custom Weaponry & Cabot Guns

Cabot Guns

I’ve had the honor of being a member of the Cabot Guns and ACW family the last few years. There’s nothing like real American steel in classic designs. Consider these the heirloom grade items on this list. But please don’t be mistaken by that nomenclature. These are meant to be shot and used, and then passed on to the next generation. My Alchemy Custom Weaponry Prime is one of my most cherished pieces in the collection and when I look at it, I see my son and his son someday carrying and shooting it, carrying on an American legacy that in my family, began with the Revolutionary War. These guns, being handfit and built to order, do take time, so consider booking this with Dad this Father’s Day to shoot together when they’re complete. On ACW, that’s a 7-9 month lead time, and on Cabot, 12-15. What’s better than a 1911 to celebrate Dad in the 250th year of American Liberty?

ACW

And, if that’s a bit too extreme, this mug is a favorite as well.

Cabot Shield Mug

Vaultek LifePod XE

Vaultek LifePod XE

I mean, it’s literally a biometric attache case. A modern, TSA friendly, FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE nod. I’ll be using mine as a dedicated travel safe indefinitely. For a man on the move, having a safe that can be cable tied off, has a backup key, and is well set up for firearms and beyond, is an excellent investment.

Parker Jotter

Parker Jotter

Yes, a pen. But the best pen you can buy for $15, and a gorgeous one at that. Huge fan of the style, of course most notable for Bond fans for its use in 1995’s GOLDENEYE. I’ve carried one daily for the last 10 years plus and it never fails to be a great companion and a much nicer writing instrument than the generic fare. There’s something nice about a good steel pen, and I love the arrow on the clip, it looks excellent when clipped off to the inside of a suit jacket or a Field Notes journal. Mine is carried in the back pocket daily with a simple leather Field Notes journal cover.

Watches of Espionage Jedburgh 2.0

Watches of Espionage

I love a good leather band on a watch, especially on a diver where some feel it doesn’t belong. The Jedburgh is an iconic design inspired and named for the Jedburgh teams of WWII espionage fame. I love the WOE mission and this strap deserves all the use in the world. I’ve daily worn mine for years.

Mayflower Cigars

Mayflower Cigars

I’m a recent convert to the cigar game, and I’m so glad I jumped in. Mayflower is a solid smoke, well made, but since I’m all of 10-15 cigars deep maximum, I’ll talk more about why I support the company. Aside from not getting sick upon smoking them as a first cigar (apparently a win) they align heavily with my values, being owned and founded by Michael Knowles of the Daily Wire. I enjoy his work and optimistic Catholicism, and his products, while standing on their own in regards to quality, are lovely to support for those reasons as well. Like a good coffee, there’s something nice about a cigar shared between friends, and I’m thankful to have taken the plunge.

Hooten Young Gothic Serpent Rye

Hooten Young

I might be new to cigars, but I am a well educated by experience fan of rye whiskey. My grandfather loves the stuff and I’ve been drinking a few fingers of barrel strength Templeton or whatever he might have on hand. Hooten Young’s Gothic Serpent Anniversary rye is a 2026 Tasting Alliance/San Francisco World Spirits Competition Double Gold winner, meaning every judge in a blind tasting unanimously awarded it with a gold rating. Hooten Young, founded by Norm Hooten of Gothic Serpent/Blackhawk Down fame, is crushing it, and this rye has been a favorite to share with friends since receiving my first bottle. For the Dad who loves history and a stiff one, add this to the bar cart.

Fortitude Coffee Company

Fortitude Coffee Company

My life is one fuelled heavily by caffeine. Coffee companies crop up everyday, so finding one that’s good and values aligned can be a trick. I found Fortitude through Jack Carr and have very much enjoyed their roasts, including a recent Hooten Young collaboration, often, and always through my Chemex. Consider pairing that classic coffee maker with some killer beans this year. That coffee, especially the Jack Carr Blend, pairs well with a Carr mug. I’m rather fond of this ceramic one.

Kona Coffee via The Coffee Store

The Coffee Store

I’m a massive, massive fan of Kona coffee. My grandparents are very fond of Hawaii, and I’ve joined them there three times in my life. From the first visit onward I’ve been obsessed with pure Kona coffee. Like Bond’s preferred Blue Mountain, it’s an excellent island grown and roasted bean. The Coffee Store in Maui usually has excellent deals and a variety of blends. My life was changed when I discovered their dark roast to run through my espresso machine. If Dad is a Magnum fan, what’s better than a little Hawaii in the mug?

READING

Signet Paperbacks

Signet Paperbacks - Ebay

Kicking it retro and via Ebay here. The new Bond paperbacks aren’t worth their weight in kindling as they’ve been sanitized by sensitivity readers. But, Fleming’s novels are a gift that always deserve to be given, and you can consistently find vintage, 1960’s paperbacks relatively fairly priced on Ebay, often in lots of 5-10 books, if not the whole collection. These have been my favorite to gift to friends new and old forever, and I can’t recommend them enough. Small enough to slip into the back pocket and gorgeous enough to display - every man needs some Bond reading in their life.

The Jack Carr Collection

The Jack Carr Collection

James Reece is the modern, American answer to James Bond. I’ve said it before and will repeat that statement here, one that I’m thrilled to say has been blurbed by Jack on a few of his books - too cool! Aside from being an amazing friend and mentor, Jack is the best modern thriller writer by an indisputable margin. His passion for detail, history, nuance, and pacing are clear on every page. He’s also nine thrillers deep at this point, with seven James Reece novels beginning with THE TERMINAL LIST and a prequel novel about his father set in Vietnam, CRY HAVOC, and now, a new co-written thriller series, THE FOURTH OPTION. If Dad isn’t a reader, check out the audiobooks narrated by the legendary Ray Porter. I don’t know many Dads who aren’t fans of a good podcast or audiobook, and Porter is excellent, and compliments Jack’s writing well.

The John Stryker Meyer Collection

John Stryker Meyer Books

John Stryker “Tilt” Meyer, of MACV-SOG is a wonderful man and even better author. He’s taken it upon himself to write a collection of books documenting the untold stories of the secret wars of SOG operators across the fence in Laos and Cambodia during the Vietnam War. His writing is conversational in style, but deeply enriching and engaging, bringing the realities of his experiences, and those of his comrades to life in a vivid way. No man’s library is complete without his works.

LICENSED TROUBLESHOOTER - THE GUNS OF JAMES BOND

Licensed Troubleshooter

I’d be remiss to not include my book on this list. The number of folks who have already reached out to me letting me know they’ve already gifted LICENSED TROUBLESHOOTER to their fathers has been amazing! For so many, their father (or in my case, grandfather) was their entry point into the world of Bond. My dad did get me into firearms, as we hunted together from a very young age, and when I see my book, I think of all of those men in my family who introduced me to pop culture or small arms. LICENSED TROUBLESHOOTER does more than document a list of guns carried by Bond in the books and films. Their stories are told, vignettes from real members of the espionage and special forces communities are shared, providing insight into both the world of Bond, and the real world use of these tools. I partnered with Headstamp to produce the best finished product possible, and I’m beyond thrilled with the end result. It’s the kind of book your dad should enjoy with a dram of the good stuff or over morning coffee, one section at a time. The book is now shipping via Headstamp.

M: “Q Branch has put together a smart-looking piece of luggage. We’re issuing this to all double-0 personnel.”

Q: “An ordinary black leather case. Inside the case, you’ll find an AR folding sniper’s rifle, .25 calibre, with an infrared telescopic sight…”

007: “That’s a nasty little Christmas present. But I shouldn’t think I’ll need it on this assignment.”

–From Russia With Love

With these words we are introduced to the dynamic and intriguing Armalite AR-7. No gun, in my mind, quite captures the essence of the 1960’s James Bond like the AR-7. A compacting rifle that fits just right inside a Swaine Adeney attache, it oozes the aesthetics of a Bond walking the streets of Istanbul or traversing the continent via the Orient Express.

Based on the AR-5 utilized by the US Air Force to help downed pilots hunt for small game after being downed, the AR-7 is yet another iconic Eugene Stoner design. Incidentally, because of this one’s inclusion in From Russia with Love, it was the first firearm I ever purchased, just days after turning 18. This first example being the current production version, manufactured by Henry under the name U.S. Survival Rifle.

That Henry manufactured US Survival rifle is a fun little companion and a great beater gun. But still lingering in the back of my mind was the brown stocked, true Armalite rifle. And until recently, that gun was a figment of the imagination, a dream yet realized. Due to brittle stocks and rarity in that particular colorway - thanks in part to the film - finding a real Armalite that is screen accurate has been a struggle. I was even willing to buy one if possible for LICENSED TROUBLESHOOTER, because tracking one down was such a struggle, and even hunting forums and resellers, I came up short. Thankfully the Cody Firearms Museum was able to provide assets for the book, but still - the gun eluded me. Until today, that is.

Breaking Down the Take-Down Rifle

Although never chambered in .25 Auto (perhaps Q Branch modified the design) the AR-7 is a unique rifle that certainly fits 007. As mentioned above, this rifle is based on a previous design, the AR-5. The major difference between the two is that the AR-5 is a bolt action versus the AR-7 being semi-automatic. Weighing in at just 3.5 lbs, this rifle fits perfectly into an attaché, without weighing it down considerably. One can assemble and disassemble the rifle without any tools. In total, it is only 5 parts once broken down - six on the Henry as it has two magazines.

• Stock

• Barrel

• Receiver

• Magazine

• Stock backplate

The barrel, receiver, and the magazine fit into their own dedicated compartments within the stock with ease. The polymer stock is foam filled as well, so not only is it light and easy to carry, it also floats! This is a carryover from the AR-5, to ensure that in the event of danger, capsizing etc, you wouldn’t lose your best hope at survival.

As mentioned by M, the gun is issued with an “infrared telescopic sight.” We never see how Bond carries this, or the suppressor he fits onto the end of the barrel later in the film. Q points to the barrel inside the stock when discussing the matter, something I’ve always considered a slip in the voice over. It can be assumed both just live loose inside the attache.

Like the Beretta 418 or Walther PPK, this gun has those sort of lines and particular features that just stand out, and make them more than just another firearm. All of the controls are simple and compact. The magazine release is a lever built onto the front left-side of the trigger guard. The charging handle pushes down into the receiver to help it better fit into the stock, and is easily drawn out to its full length to chamber a round once assembled.

This particular gun is special for a number of reasons. First, for me, is the fact that it’s a screen accurate model, something I’ve been after since age 10. Second, it’s a very early example of the rifle, still sporting Patent Pending markings. Third, according to trusted sources, based on the serial number, the gun was likely produced in the nearly 1960’s - potentially in 1963/4, putting this gun in the same year FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE was released (maybe). Consider that bit of lore an uncertain, icing on the cake moment that just makes this even more special.

And finally, I’m not close to being done with this one yet. This gun will be a suppressor host soon enough, thanks to Silencer Shop, who has been kind enough to provide a Bowers Icon .22LR silencer for this build. A threaded barrel from a friend who just happened to have one is on the way as well. Now, I just need to option a grey flannel suit from Shepherd’s, and figure out a good scope option.

The Fleming Connection

As I mentioned earlier, on screen, the rifle is chambered in .25 ACP. While that could just be an intentional Q Branch modification–my guess is that it is a carry over from the Fleming text. In the novel, Bond is still carrying the Beretta 418, which is chambered in .25 ACP. 007 is still issued the attache case, and it has concealed rounds of .25, to feed his defensive handgun.

From the novel:

“Q Branch had put together this smart-looking little bag, ripping out the careful handiwork of Swaine and Adeney to pack fifty rounds of .25 ammunition, in two flat rows, between the leather and the lining of the spine. In each of the innocent sides there was a flat throwing knife, built by Wilkinsons, the sword makers, and the tops of the handles were concealed cleverly by the stitching at the corners. Q’s craftsmen had insisted on building a hidden compartment into the handle of the case, which, by pressure at a certain point, would deliver a cyanide death-pill into the palm of his hand. (Directly after he had taken delivery of the case, Bond had washed this pill down the lavatory.) More important was the thick tube of Palmolive shaving cream in the otherwise guileless spongebag. The whole top of this unscrewed to reveal the silencer for the Beretta, packed in cotton wool. In case hard cash was needed, the lid of the attache case contained fifty golden sovereigns.”

I am a massive fan of this case, and Fleming’s ingenuity. If you haven’t picked up the novels yet, do so, they really are phenomenal. But, going back to the question of the AR-7, I think this source material might be the reason we hear about a rifle in .25 auto. It is so Fleming, and straight from the text. While reading this, you can so easily picture that iconic scene with Desmond Llewelyn and Sean, our first ever sequence with Q. That should be so telling here. The first few films strived so hard to bring the text to life, and truly following a lot of the source material verbatim. So, while some things in the briefcase change, the caliber of the ammunition kept within it stays the same, even though Bond is now carrying his PPK. All this is to say–whether it is a carry-over, a true homage, or an intentional modification, James Bond has a one of a kind rifle.

On Screen Appearances

We first see the rifle, in its collapsed form, inside the attaché in the scene referenced above. It also happens to be the first ever scene to have Q on screen. This was one of my first Bond movies, and this scene, and the magic of the briefcase always caught my imagination. My brother and I once bought a burgundy briefcase at a yard sale with every intention in decking it out just like Bond. We never got that far (but more on my pursuit of that sort of case later - expect some fun thanks to Drew of DFZ Engineering).

Unlike many of Bond’s later gear/gadgets issued by Q Branch, this rifle is allowed to be the star in a couple of scenes, which I really enjoy. After tracking Krilencu, the Bulgarian assassin down, Kerim Bay insists on shooting him rather than going into further personal debt with Bond.

The rifle appears again towards the end of the film, as Bond and Tatania flee SPECTRE with the Lecktor. While being pursued by a helicopter, Bond dives underneath a rocky outcrop and shoots a SPECTRE henchman at the perfect time, making him drop his grenade into the helicopter rather than on Bond.

MUCH later, in On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, James Bond keeps the AR-7 in the glove compartment of his Aston Martin, complete with scope and suppressor. We see it very briefly during the pre-title sequence as he uses the scope to watch Tracy walk slowly into the sea. I love this moment, as it immediately reminds the viewer that this the same Bond as before. So many of the early pieces of this movie are built around this reminder—Lazenby was the first to fill Connery’s shoes after all—and because of how fleeting it is, it’s my absolute favorite of them all.

Parting Shots

The AR-7 is a neat little rifle. Is it a sniper? Absolutely not. It’s chambered in .22LR, and meant for small game hunting at most. However, it has been a wonderful companion, despite its stiff trigger pull. One thing I have loved doing with it most has been introducing new shooters to the world of firearms with it. Having them watch me assemble the rifle while excitedly discussing its pop culture history and why I’m so excited to have it helps break the tension, the fear of the unknown. This is exactly what this channel is all about after all. Bridging the gap between the world of firearms and the pop culture legend that which is 007. The fact that it is inexpensive to shoot and has little to no recoil is all the better for this purpose too! For the price, picking up one of the Charter Arms or Henry manufactured rifles is certainly worth every penny.

For a deeper dive into this rifle and its history, please consider my book, LICENSED TROUBLESHOOTER - THE GUNS OF JAMES BOND, now available via Headstamp Publishing. You can find the book below.

GET THE BOOK

But I ask you to bear with me on this thought experiment.

I rarely take the time to do so with Bond anymore, with all of the waiting, speculation, and betting markets, too often it feels like wasted breath. And, five years in, it’s the same conversation a million times over and again. I do promise that this contains some originality, and a case - or at least a thought experiment - as to what I would love to see happen with the silver screen debut of Amazon MGM’s 007.

PATRICK GIBSON’S 00 DEBUT

Let’s start with the easy points.

31 years old. A younger man. Someone who is known, but not overwhelmingly so.

Exactly what Amazon wants.

So the demographic data checks out. Again, the easy part. But what about the portrayal as Bond?

FIRST LIGHT’S 007

On screen during FIRST LIGHT, Gibson’s Bond is such a pleasure to watch and go on a journey alongside. He doesn’t feel like the jaded Bond we have been with during Craig’s tenure. He plays the character as an amalgamation of a young Brosnan and Dalton 007, with the gadgets and fun of a Moore, in addition to the detective aspects of Connery and Fleming. Add in a modern story that feels worthy of the character and you have a winning, cinematic quality storyline pushed into a game format.

We get the witticisms of a sharp and arrogant young man that’s layered strongly with his love for his companions. It’s that verbal armour Vesper notes in CASINO ROYALE, but a little rougher around the edges. In FIRST LIGHT, the serious losses and early years as a 00 that likely add to his armor haven’t occurred yet, and you feel that. But the DNA of Bond is so clear even in the opening scenes.

Read my full review of the game in detail in this article. In short, I loved it.

The appeal of Gibson is apparent. He is a fantastic steward of the James Bond legacy. And, he’s a young man whose story could carry across both video games and films. Amazon’s plan for a world of James Bond, while it more than likely means separate avenues and a different onscreen 007, would be an exciting avenue to showcase a character who debuts in a game, to be brought to life on the silver screen.

AMAZON’S HUNT BEGINS

The die has been cast, the hunt has begun. So where do things go from here? Like I mentioned, the need for a younger Bond has been a clear requirement from day one - something that’s always made the tabloid rumor mill exhausting to me - as none of the names are typically even close to where they need an actor to be in age. So where do they go? How young is too young?

After all, between CASINO ROYALE and FIRST LIGHT, it’s abundantly clear that an origin story is off the table. So why not take advantage of a freshly minted 007 in his early 30’s? Allow the video games to stand on their own - like BLOODSTONE - and don’t force in any MCU style “you had to see this to know that” sort of moments.

The appeal of a Bond movie is that they are self encapsulated adventures (the Craig films notwithstanding). There’s an established modern Bond, with a fantastic set of supporting characters, racing to discover a new mystery. Picking up where that leaves off would be perfect.

And, let’s not forget, Connery’s established 007 was in his early 30’s as well, with Connery being 31 years old during the filming of DR. NO. But like in DR. NO, Bond needs a companion.

THE “BROTHER FROM LANGLEY”

From the first novel, Bond is rarely alone. He’s accompanied by ample beauties, yes - but the one constant in some of the best Bond adventures is Felix Leiter. CASINO ROYALE introduces the character, with a nice line from Fleming, a bit of internal dialogue from Bond:

Leiter is described as being “about thirty-five” with straw colored blonde hair, with wry eyes, a calm, slow drawl and an easy smile. Seven men have played the character in the EON films, with varying degrees of success. None, aside from perhaps Jack Lord, remotely bring the Fleming defined traits of the character to life. Few mistakes were made during the Connery Era, but perhaps the most unforgivable was the removal of Lord - reportedly due to fear of the actor upstaging Connery. The end result was the parade of Leiters, and a character who felt more like an equal and trusted companion being reduced to a more simplified ally. The longest serving actor, Jeffrey Wright - who played the character in three of five Craig films, brought a serious tone and gravitas to the role that is undisputed, but the core of the character - a slow-talking, jack-knife, former Marine, that man was still missing in action.

With Amazon’s reported interest in building a James Bond universe, and their continued emphasis on the Fleming source material as critical reading for crafting that universe, having an actor who can command the role and stand on their own if needed is essential. And frankly, who better than a real, proper Texan, whose been dominating action films on his own during the dwell time between Bond films - Glen Powell. Together, the two would be a dominating force for Amazon MGM.

He’s already an Omega partner, and a proud Texan who comfortably wears elevated Western style that wouldn’t look out of place alongside the more dressed down. neat casual Gibson 007 on the streets of any global hotspot.

Parting Shots

The future of James Bond is uncertain - aside from one thing. Amazon MGM. I believe in their passion for the character, and their eagerness to do Fleming and the EON legacy justice. I’d love to see my little vision here come to life, but I don’t sit with bated breath waiting for it to happen. After all, a game every 2-3 years with a film in-between sounds like the perfect schedule to keep things moving, but allowing the mystery and excitement to remain. If not this thought experiment, I do hope we find another young man like this to fill the role, so that we can enjoy a consistent and healthy world of James Bond once again.

Thanks for coming on this journey with me. Now let’s get back to replaying FIRST LIGHT.

On this day, May 28, in 1908, Ian Lancaster Fleming was born. It wouldn’t be until April of 1953 that his literary legend, introduced in the pages of CASINO ROYALE, with a first chapter titled “The Secret Agent"“ would be brought to life as well. Here as we rest, on what would have been Fleming’s 118th birthday, we are celebrating his character, in a new origin story, in a medium Fleming never imagined - a video game.

Now, I have to be clear at the top. This is a spoiler-free dialogue. Not really a review, as I say, I’m merely scratching the surface of what this game has to offer so far. But, seeing as it’s Fleming’s birthday, and I’ve been fully immersed in the world of Bond once again thanks to this game’s launch, it felt proper to celebrate with my initial thoughts.

I’m writing this as a 28 year-old lifelong fan of Bond, an author of a history of James Bond small arms, and a Fleming fanatic. I was born in 1997. I missed the GoldenEye N64 craze. Instead, I grew up a fan of Connery’s Bond by first exposure, growing to discover and love the entirety of the franchise one film at a time, and my Bond video games were Nightfire and From Russia with Love. I’m not really a gamer anymore, I recently upgraded from my Xbox One of well over a decade in age to the PS5 to play both the Indiana Jones game and First Light. I’m saying all this to make it clear that this discussion is going to not be about the mechanics or graphics of the game (all of which are excellent in my layman’s perspective) but in the tone, feeling and Bondian nature of the first major piece of Bond content since NO TIME TO DIE.

Earning the Number

I’m myself just about a day into 007 First Light, and so far, it’s exceptional the level of passion, detail, and pure 00 fun that’s found in every aspect of this experience.

Straight from the top, a pre-titles sequence worthy of any cinematic Bond with an incredible title track by Lana Del Ray and Bond LEGEND David Arnold sets the tone - this is more than a video game with Bond slapped into it, it’s a blend of cinema and experiential excitement.

Patrick Gibson, the motion capture/voice actor portraying Bond, does a marvelous job bringing a young, rough around the edges, pre-00 James Bond to life. At first exposure, one thing is clear. This game will be the next generation’s entry point into the world of James Bond. Like the GoldenEye N64 game, this will be the piece that introduces a whole generation to 007.

I’m not knocking the Craig era, but the dreary, serious tone that permeates the majority of his films makes them hard at times for a younger audience to engage with. And in a world of Marvel films, the pacing of a classic Bond thriller like FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE can at times feel dreary to those unfamiliar with the era. But a game that can blend the details and lore of a classic Fleming Bond with the adventure and excitement of the Brosnan/Craig era is an exceptional way to engage a new audience.

Everything from the supporting cast to small, unforced winks and nods to old films and the original novels carry through every moment of the game. They are the sorts of “blink and you’ll miss it” things that established fans will beam at, and new fans will learn to love as they use the game as a stepping stone into the cinematic or literary Bond world, and see them crop up time and again in their original forms.

There’s a resonance to a Bond film. A certain level of DNA that delineates a non-EON film like NEVER SAY NEVER AGAIN from Octopussy. The score, scale, and intangible feeling that comes from entering a theatrical Bond experience is second to none. First Light captures that gravitas immaculately. Bond’s world is our own, but in a surrealist sort of way. It’s this grand, massive in scale, and incredible place that we time and again insist on returning to. It’s why the Bond franchise is the longest running, and truly the first, cinematic franchise in history. It’s why there’s a Bond film for every moment, every mood. With 25 films and six actors spanning over 60 years, there’s something special to be found regardless of the atmosphere. First Light, while paying strong homage to that, doesn’t just play like a greatest hits album, doing what’s safe to earn a quick buck - it’s a daring reimagining of the Bond origin story for a modern world and audience.

Parting Shots

In the quiet moments between films, this is a cinematic journey that puts the fans directly in the driver’s seat. In the same way my collection of Bond Blu-Ray discs and VHS tapes fill those hours, so too will this game. And unlike a film, that has all elements fixed, Fi has endless permutations in how one might go about accomplishing the missions at hand. The story might be linear, but like a classic “choose your own adventure” novel, how you find your way to the end points - be in a high stealth, gadget heavy approach, or a more, heavy-handed, blunt instrument sort of way - that’s entirely in your hands.

Gibson’s Bond puts you in command, and he absolutely deserves an entire era of games like his cinematic counterparts. I hope, like in all Bond credits, when I get to the end of FIRST LIGHT, I once again see “JAMES BOND WILL RETURN” emblazoned at their close.

Typing this feels surreal. After years of research, writing, travel, and some unexpected production delays thanks to global political unrest - Licensed Troubleshooter: The Guns of James Bond is officially available for ordering via Headstamp Publishing. 560 pages celebrating the history of 007’s small arms, from the books to the screen. Every continuation author, and every film (official and otherwise).

My thanks first to everyone who backed the initial campaign for the book. Your support and patience is greatly appreciated. For those unfamiliar with the project, I’d like to introduce you to my first book, Licensed Troubleshooter: The Guns of James Bond.

ORDER HERE

What follows is a foreword to the book I wrote immediately after one of the most thrilling portions of my research journey, my visit to Carl Walther GmbH in Germany, to visit the Walther archives and museum, to spend time with the owner of Walther and handle rare steel and capture it all for you.

LICENSED TROUBLESHOOTER - THE FOREWORD

May 13, 2024

I’m greeted as I exit the airport, by a gentleman wearing a polo sporting the Walther banner. He points to his car. I laugh, because despite being sleep deprived and adjusting myself to the local time, I would have correctly guessed which car in the lot was there for me. The number plate on the car is a dead giveaway, “UL CW 7007.” For an ardent fan of Walther, this easily translated as “Ulm, Carl Walther, 7 007.” I had arrived to a place I had only ever dreamed of visiting, and it was already exceeding expectations. Carl Walther GmbH - where the number plates all end in 007.

Three days were spent at the incredible facilities of Walther and Umarex in Ulm and Arnsberg, alongside the owner of Walther himself, Wulf-Heinz Pflaumer. Three days with some of the most unique and difficult to find small arms in Walther’s archive, surrounded by the passionate team who has curated and cares for this vast collection each and every day.

This trip served as the grand finale to my research for this volume. At only 26 years old, Bond has consumed the better part of half of my life so far, after being introduced at around 11-13 years old. Like so many, I was immediately captivated by Sean Connery’s presence on screen, a hero impeccably dressed and armed, confidently taking on the most colorful villains and schemes single-handley. In the fifth grade, I was gifted a copy of the DK book, James Bond, The Secret World of 007. At that time, I had only seen three or four of the films, and was slowly receiving the others as gifts as time went by. But thanks to that book, I memorized every plotline. I have fond memories of attempting to put my own Bond book together on printer paper with my friends, with details mined from the DK book and illustrations of my own, ones that I carefully archived between the pages of that red covered Bond bible. I remember an Umarex Walther PPK airsoft pistol. The day it came in the mail, I watched Bond movie after Bond movie in the basement of my childhood home, recreating every gun barrel moment with it in my hands.

LICENSED TROUBLESHOOTER

I tell you all of this only to say, a volume like this has been the dream of my life. I knew from a young age I wanted to tell stories, and I’ve always blamed that on the incredible writers I grew up reading, and those stories I also grew up watching. Sharing the story of Bond with the world became natural to me. Unlike some places, kids in Kansas City, MO weren’t exactly thrilled about 007, but my crusade never ended. Ask any friend of mine from that first exposure forward, whether they liked it or not, Goldfinger was always the top of the pile for an overnight. As I grew older, and began working in the firearms industry, I immediately began collecting the guns of Bond, and shared those stories at every opportunity. After nearly a decade in the industry, this story, on the page, and in this format, is a dream come true.

What I never knew was that embarking on the journey of writing the history of James Bond’s small arms would lead me to the headquarters of Walther, the company I had self-identified with all those years ago thanks to 007. Nor that it would grant me an audience with the owner of Walther, who is a passionate Bond fan himself, and someone I’ve considered a personal hero these past few years. I certainly did not expect the friendships and conversations such a project would cultivate. Thanks to this book, I’ve met with and interviewed veterans of the CIA, US Navy SEALs, DSS, Royal Commandos, and SOG, all of whom I am proud to call my friends. I’ve worked hand in glove with the teams at some of my favorite gun brands, and met some of the most interesting collectors in the firearms space.

This volume contains a multitude of stories surrounding the weapons of Bond. There are the stories that many may be familiar with. The original Beretta, its downfall, Geoffrey Boothroyd’s letters, the introduction of the PPK, and Gardner’s ASP 9mm, to name just a few.

But here, these stories are just the beginning. We will discuss the real-world impact of Bond’s tools, why they were developed, the real students of the gun who found themselves armed with the arsenal of James Bond in the ever-changing landscape of the Cold War, how Bond influenced reality, and how reality influenced Bond. Not only will we be celebrating the fictional hero of James Bond, we’ll be shining a spotlight on those who operate in the real world with the same tools, with interviews and detailed accounts of these firearms in action.

To adequately discuss every firearm that ever appeared on the screen or page would fill an encyclopedic number of volumes, but here, we have curated the tales of the most important firearms of James Bond, his issued weapons, and the tools that directly impacted the plotlines of Fleming’s novels, and the authorized continuation works of Amis, Gardner, Benson, Faulks, Deaver, Boyd, and Horowitz. We are proud to provide an unparalleled collection of firearms, sourced from around the globe, and captured here, to help provide you with a guide through the world of Bond, in ways often never done before.

This is a celebration of people, brands, the firearms community and industry, the subject matter experts who passionately armed 007, real world heroes, and of course, the man himself. Thank you for joining me on this journey.

Be prepared to see Bond’s firearms in a way you’ve never seen them before.

LICENSED TROUBLESHOOTER

THE BOOK

Licensed Troubleshooter: The Guns of James Bond is a celebration of the most fascinating small arms wielded by one of the world’s most acclaimed action heroes, 007. This in-depth analysis spans the entire collection of Bond films and the novels that inspired them, including those authored by Ian Fleming and also those of the continuation authors. This visual history thoroughly examines the design and implementation of Bond’s tools, and of course, their impact on 007.

Beyond simply paying tribute to the fictional hero of James Bond, Licensed Troubleshooter shines a spotlight on the real-world operators employing the same firearms, featuring interviews with current and former military and intelligence personnel from agencies in the United Kingdom and the United States, including the CIA, MACV-SOG, U.S. Navy SEALs, DSS, and more. These interviews, combined with substantive historical research, provide the reader with a deeper understanding of the often incredible history of these firearms, including their use in combat and clandestine services. Be prepared to see Bond’s guns in a way you’ve never seen them before.

LICENSED TROUBLESHOOTER

Notable firearms featured in this book include:

• Walther PPK iconic compact pistol

• Analysis of Ian Fleming’s “skeleton gripped .25 Beretta”

• An exploration and identification of Ian Fleming’s “long-barrelled .45 Colt Army Special”

• ASP 9 mm pistol

• Walther WA2000 precision rifle

• Scaramanga’s famous “Golden Gun”

• Heckler & Koch P7 with squeeze cocker and piston-delayed operation

• Walther P99 polymer-framed pistol

• SVD Dragunov, sniper rifle of the Iron Curtain

• MBA Gyrojet firing rocket-propelled projectiles

Licensed Troubleshooter also offers a number of vignettes detailing other non-incendiary items fundamental to the character of Bond, such as:

• Timepieces

• Tailoring

• Cocktails

Though this book provides significant written analysis and commentary, it is also presented in part as a pictorial study in order to best highlight the varied and unique details of the noteworthy firearms used by Bond. The masterful photography of James Rupley jumps off the page, often exhibiting these small arms at larger-than-life scale. Equally appealing to both firearms collectors and Bond aficionados, Licensed Troubleshooter serves as the first book to celebrate the small arms of the literary and cinematic Bond in this comprehensive manner.

THE BOOK - ORDER NOW

(00)1 - Light Wash Denim

Thomas Magnum’s lesser appreciated trouser selection. I’m all in on the shorter inseam, but for daily wear, and pure practicality, a solid pair of light wash jeans are the best and most versatile pair of pants a man can own. I’m still on the hunt for the perfect denim. I don’t like stretch, and find most new pure cotton jeans to be too thin or weirdly fit, causing wear and tear issues too early. Vintage Levi’s 501s - made in Mexico or the USA have been the best for structure and fit so far. Denim shrinks, so don’t rely on any measurements found on the leather patch. Trust the measuring tape when hunting on Ebay or Marketplace.

(00)2 - The Base Layers

The classic American summer aesthetic is a well-fit white tee with denim and aviators, think TOP GUN, but the constant struggle is actually finding a white tee that works, and that isn’t an absurd price to get into either. Life isn’t exactly pristine and neat, especially in the months of barbeques and whatnot, so keeping one immaculate probably isn’t the most realistic. I’ve settled on Abercrombie & Fitch in the last few years, they’ve been putting out a solid and inexpensive heavier weight slew of shirts. I also love Sunspel, but be careful on which ones you buy, the classics are a bit thin for my taste (they work perfectly on the beach or in CASINO ROYALE’s gray) but the Riviera mid-weight is a perfect tee. I have one in forest green and wear it often. I’ll likely end up nabbing a black, navy, and white example later this year too with how much I’m wearing. the green version.

Aside from the plain tee, my most worn baselayer that in the warmer months is a shirt of its own is a henley. NO TIME TO DIE put the henley shirt back on my radar as an option, and I haven’t stopped wearing them since. Under field shirts or sweaters, they add a great layer of additional detail, and in the heat of summer, I just leave them untucked and roll the sleeves. If I was a cartoon character, with that one outfit you’d never see them drawn without, my wife would be the first to tell you a henley would be a requisite article. I usually buy mine on sale via J. Crew Factory in bulk every few years - they’ll go as low as $13 a shirt. Hard to beat.

These are simple pieces, but what can make something that simple work well is a quality and interesting belt. Depending on how you’re dressing, and what you’re carrying, there are ample options out there. In the summer months I typically transition back to a braided leather belt, I love this one from Beorma and wear an older model all season.

You can also go the true Magnum or Indy route with a web belt. There’s plenty of surplus options out there cheap, but for carry purposes and to reduce the cosplay accusations a bit, I’ve enjoyed the Groove Life belt.

Or, if you’re like me and like tucking the tee to pair with an overshirt (go two sections down for more) a gun belt is a great choice. I’m personally partial to a basketstamp, but you can also go with plain leather or decorative stitch. My belt here is a vintage Ted Blocker with a new Milt Sparks brass buckle. Sparks leather is excellent, and their belts are definitely worth the investment.

(00)3 - Sperry Gold Cup

I have worn the NO TIME TO DIE Sperry’s now for a good three years as a daily shoe. Working remotely, having a shoe that can easily be slipped on and taken off with no issue has been, from a utility perspective, a massive help. But even when I could probably have a more robust shoe on, they’ve continued to be a favorite. My son naps best on the move, and I enjoy walking throughout the day to break up my time in front of a screen - so we typically walk anywhere between 5-10 miles a day. Rarely do I lace anything up, I just slip on one of my pairs of the Gold Cups and plow ahead. I’ve hiked Hawaii, walked beaches, shoveled snow, and pretty much lived in these for years. A boat shoe that’s worn in takes away any of the “prep” stigma typically applied to them - especially when worn in a more Magnum or retired Bond manner with a straight cut pair of denim and a rugby shirt or Riviera polo. I’ve never been a sneakers guy, and live in leather shoes, be it my Alden 405’s, a pair of suede chukkas, or these boat shoes. When packing for any trip these Sperry’s can fit into the tightest packed carry-on for a set of backup shoes. My typical travel kit includes the Alden’s on the foot and the Sperry’s in the bag, and between the two sets, I’m set for whatever’s required.

(00)4 - Field Shirts & Safari Jackets

The most obviously Indiana Jones inspired piece listed, but there’s something about the summer heat and the warm tones of the season that make a good field shirt or Moore inspired safari jacket the perfect outer layer. The biggest issue many have in the summer months due to the heat is just understanding how to dress without the benefit of layering. Winter and Fall layers - knitwear, jackets, etc - are a cheat code for style. They give the wearer boundless opportunities for color and texture, and depth and dimension. But when the heat cranks up, suddenly many devolve into kids on the playground with just shorts and tees on in their casual moments. And while there’s a time and a place for everything, lighter fabrics like linens or cotton in these styles - which were designed specifically for the summer heat - are excellent ways to dress a basic tee up.

TAD SHIRTING

A safari jacket or field shirt can, depending on the cut, be worn by themselves, or layered like an overshirt with a basic tee. Magnum P.I. was the king of the field shirt, aside from his Paradise Found Aloha shirts, the field shirt is his most familiar look. Harrison Ford’s personal style is an excellent example of how to wear one without cosplaying as Indy - which is a feat considering the man is literally Indiana Jones and still accomplished it. Ebay is rife with great options for these, vintage Banana Republic from the Royal Crown Colony of Hong Kong days are excellent pieces, though a little slim through the body. Like anything older, don’t read the label, be sure to base purchasing decisions off of the actual garment measurements.

Since becoming a Dad, I’ve become even more enamored with an overshirt with patch pockets like the one above ($60 from Quince) or a safari jacket. I currently have one on order from my friends at Shepherd’s that will be reviewed here when complete. The functional benefits of all the pockets is pretty unrivaled. I also find myself traveling more in my work, and I like having a good jacket in the cooler months to put all of my accessories in for the x-ray machine. A linen safari or overshirt fulfills the same role, making getting out of that awful line that much more efficient. Style and functionality aren’t mutually exclusive.

QUINCE CHORE JACKET

(00)5 - A Good Ballcap & Sunglasses

Typically, I’m the last person you’ll see in a ballcap. As a guy who has been accused of being 12 since he first turned 21 - now at 28 I’ve since upgraded to the 15-18 range in most estimations - a hat does little but make me look even more baby-faced. That said, the functionality of a good hat is impossible to argue with, and even I pack one on every trip. A hat snaps off easily to a backpack or my camera bag, and is a great friend when caught on a cloudless day or a surprise deluge. A hat is also an obvious way to add a little more personality to a look. I detest logos on anything, but do make an exception for a good hat, especially when it is supporting a friend or business I care about. Taking it back to Magnum - aside from the familiar Detroit Tigers cap, he wears an assortment of local business hats throughout the series. My most common companion - the Crossed Hawks Jack Carr camo hat.

CARR HAT

And, taking the sun into consideration, a summer kit is hardly complete without a good pair of sunglasses. I am a massive, massive TOP GUN guy, and grew up wearing all sorts of cheap aviators while blasting Danger Zone & Playing with the Boys behind the wheel of my 1997 five speed Wrangler. They became what I was most comfortable with, and with good reason. With that bloody top off the Jeep and the tiny windscreen the large lenses on the sunglasses kept everything from bugs to dust and debris out of my eyes, in addition to the sun blaring directly down upon me. I splurged and bit the bullet on the actual Ray-Ban shades a while back (I’ve actually bought them twice now, since like the Jeep they were stolen) and I haven’t looked back since. For the Magnum vibes, I picked up a great pair of large tortoise acetate aviators last winter to rock in Hawaii.

If larger frame glasses aren’t your style, I really love the style and depth of detail in my Grayman & Company tortoise keyhole sunglasses. They get double points for working as eye protection. The size and shape also makes them a great summer companion to good tailoring (which they also do naturally). We have a great Connery inspired summer suit in the works that you’ll see those glasses with soon enough! NO TIME TO DIE features a similar set while Bond is swimming in the pre-titles, and I fell in love with the style in the incredibly long and dreary ramp up to that film’s release and was delighted when Grayman & Company launched these. Substack won’t let me link to Grayman for whatever reason but a simple Google will get you where you need to go.

(00)6 - The Harrington Jacket

Despite the warmer weather, a man is never complete without a jacket of some sort close at hand. Earlier we discussed the virtues of the safari jacket or an overshirt, but even in the heat of summer, I usually have a lightweight jacket in the back of the car or in the bottom of my backpack at the ready for whatever random inclimate weather may come about. Paired up with that back-up ballcap, you’ve got kit on hand to handle the second leg of a hike that suddenly turns into a monsoon or a walk through the neighborhood to keep a baby asleep (ask me how I know that one) or something to drape over the shoulders of your wife or date to at least keep them dry.

ROYALE HARRINGTON

I’m not one for hooded jackets, but a jacket that you can pop the collar on the diminish the effect of the elements is a favorite. QUANTUM OF SOLACE being one of my favorite films ever puts shirt collar and classic button collar harringtons high on my list of favorite pieces. The new FIRST LIGHT game teases a shirt collar style jacket frequently as well, and I’d imagine this style will see a resurgence as a result. For the summer, aside from my staple Royale Filmwear jacket pictured above - I love the “Rake” from Triple Aught Design. It’s perfectly lightweight, frankly too light for a stiff breeze in the early spring, but exactly what you want on a humid summer day in the rain. The green herringbone is excellent as well and pairs nicely with light denim and other earth tones. At the time of writing this jacket is limited in sizing and 50% off. Great deal.

THE RAKE JACKET

(00)7 - Sunspel Riviera

But where else could I put this piece but in the 007th slot.

The Sunspel Riviera has been an institution for Bond fans over the last 20 years, since its cinematic introduction in 2006’s CASINO ROYALE. I’ve lived in them the past few years, starting out with the screen-accurate navy short sleeve. Since then, I’ve picked up long-sleeve variants and a medley of colorways.

The Riviera is perfect. The knit of the fabric, a special Supima cotton mesh, has a dense, structured feel to it, but it is incredibly breathable and properly suited for the heat as advertised. Sunspel originally developed the mesh in the 1950’s for the summer days on the French Riviera (thus the name) and resurrected the fabric and design for Bond. Craig’s CASINO ROYALE stands as one of the most faithful adaptations of a Fleming novel. While well modernized and fleshed out, the core of Fleming’s story and the ethos of the character are absolutely radiant in every small moment, down to this polo.

Fleming’s Bond wasn’t a cad - his style was an elevated minimalism defined by texture, such as his stalwart silk knit tie. I’ve made those a favored piece in my formal wardrobe, and the similarity between the silk knits and the Supima cotton mesh is subtle, but obvious to those familiar with both. I like to think that it’s a casual form of a classic Bond staple.

The finer details are what make the Riviera special. I love the shorter sleeves, the tighter, but not undersized, fit of both the sleeves and the chest, and the soft drape of the remainder of the shirt below the chest.

While the navy polo is still my immediate go to shirt (in either the long or short sleeve variant) I’ve really fallen for their ever-expanding color palette. My immediate purchase after the navy was of course a black variant, and recently I nabbed a lovely light blue example that reminded me of the pique piece from DR. NO.

But, what will be the cornerstone of my summer was a generous gift from my friend David Zaritsky of The Bond Experience. While we were together at the Rock Island Auction Company, he was kind enough to pass along the pictured green Sunspel. The colorway is a limited edition, one of one hundred piece, Goldeneye Green. As a massive fan of the literary 007, someone with aspirations to one day visit Goldeneye, this one is special for ample reasons, and is a quiet Bond reference I’ll be wearing constantly this year. I think the aforementioned knit of these pieces also make them really perfect when finished in earth tones. Every year Sunspel is kind enough to introduce more colorways to the world, and I expect I’ll continue to add more and more of these to my collection because I truly can’t get enough of them.

SUNSPEL RIVIERA

THE FOURTH OPTION

After spending the week on the road, culminating in my favorite bit of travel of the year - seeing my friend and mentor Jack Carr on his book tour - I wanted to sit down and write my thoughts on THE FOURTH OPTION in a spoiler free manner. This “review” is more about the core concepts of the novel, how Jack’s first co-written thriller stands against his dominant TERMINAL LIST series, and why THE FOURTH OPTION will be my most re-read book of the summer.

THE FOURTH OPTION centers on a new hero - Chris Walker.

The novel is heavily inspired by the westerns of Jack’s youth, most notably the television series HAVE GUN - WILL TRAVEL. It’s a show he carried with him into his years of service, Carr managed to buy the entire DVD collection at a PX, and even had custom business cards made up for his unit inspired by the show’s hero - known only as “Paladin” - which read “Have Gun - Will Travel” in addition to another incredible line from Steve McQueen in the Magnificent Seven “we deal in lead, friend.” Fans of CRY HAVOC or DARK WOLF may appreciate that second line.

THE FOURTH OPTION was a concept that Jack first considered when exploring his options for a debut thriller, finally settling on THE TERMINAL LIST. But it was a story that stuck with him, to the point that he built up a screen treatment presentation of 40 some-odd slides and richly explored the themes of the characters in the process. After shelving it again, he took a page from Tom Clancy’s Op Center series, and refused to let this die on the vine. With a schedule that cannot be envied by any, between television shows, documentaries, thrillers, podcasts, non-fiction, and being the father to three, it’s little wonder that a co-written thriller with a voice as well known in the thriller space as M.P. Woodward was an easy yes for Jack. And, THE FOURTH OPTION doesn’t disappoint. My thanks to both men for making this story a reality.

THE FOURTH OPTION

THE FOURTH OPTION - CARR’S FIRST CO-WRITTEN THRILLER

For those worried about the feeling of a co-written thriller versus a “Jack Carr original” let me dispel those concerns now. Jack’s voice is present in every page. Aside from Fleming, there’s no author whose work I have revisited as often as Carr, and despite THE FOURTH OPTION being a radically different book from cover to cover than any of the TERMINAL LIST series, the DNA of Jack’s writing is omnipresent.

One thing I was intrigued to find out was how Jack could possibly differentiate two characters, who on first glance, are the same man. Critics were quick to point out that both James Reece and Chris Walker are former SEALs with attachments to the CIA, cynically citing that Carr couldn’t possibly make the men any different. What’s categorically wrong about that is just how different every real man who served in those organizations actually are. Men might serve in similar roles, they might experience the same battles, but the battles within, their previous experiences, and how they perceive the world, those are the nuanced and vitally important pieces which define an inner voice and the actual content of one’s character.

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One striking example to me is just how well Jack keeps his authentic passion for included detailed equipment and gear in his work to ground things in reality - but he does so in a way that feels entirely different than when he writes the world of James Reece. Reece is a man informed by `Carr’s own experiences and preferences, down to a legendary hatred of mayo (forgive me if you’re reading this my friend for even mentioning the condiment). If you know anything about Carr - he’s probably the most hardcore gear nerd you’ll ever meet. Again, people incorrectly criticize Jack for citing things down to the shoes in full nomenclature inside Reece thrillers, but what they don’t understand is Carr is doing that entirely for the love of the game. There’s no secret back room dollars being exchanged, it’s just how the man’s mind works - from a watch to a sidearm and every piece of equipment in between, these pieces have souls and stories of their own, and they inform the very grounded world Jack so capably puts on the page.

Now when writing for Chris Walker, things are named, but the feeling is different. It’s almost like an afterthought - because Walker’s frankly so busy fighting his inner cadre of philosophers in addition to his mission that while he, an operator and informed individual clearly knows what he’s using, he’s less concerned about the finer details of things. His world is defined not by equipment, but how he applies the lessons of philosophy to his actions. He’s aware that he’s capable of violence and action, but he ponders his justification and morality throughout the book, revisiting his traveling library stowed in his VW Vanagon.

These inner voices are also the way Jack takes on the most difficult battle waging in Walker’s mind - a feeling of shortcoming, failure, and a nagging feeling of what mattered over the course of the past 20 years of war. Jack has written often about lessons from history, and the abysmal withdrawal that concluded a chapter of American history. Walker makes it personal. He lives through the withdrawal, the failures of our government, and does his best to take matters into his own hands, leading to a personal tragedy that plagues him throughout the novel. Carr unabashedly combats the most realistic horror that remains from the war - a sense of loss, abandonment, and sorrow - a question of what mattered, all eloquently folded into flashbacks throughout the book. Jack is fond of talking about the importance of fiction. He makes the argument that reading only non-fiction is fine, but it’s in fiction that you learn to live in someone else’s shoes, you feel their agony, and you carry them with you forever. I’ve listened to a lot of Jack’s podcasts, and I’ve heard countless heartbreaking stories of loss and the search for meaning after the meaningless end to the wars in the Middle East. Living in Chris Walker’s head really brought those conversations home on an even deeper level, and combined Jack’s editorial efforts with something I will carry on now forever. That’s the power of good writing. I can’t really say it enough. Jack Carr doesn’t write thrillers meant to merely entertain for an afternoon. He writes books that mean something, stories you need to hear, and in a way that doesn’t diminish the impact of a good thriller or adventure. It’s a delicate balance, on the edge of a blade - and it’s a damn good thing Jack is a man of the blade, because he never fails. THE FOURTH OPTION’s articulation of the withdrawal narrative is going to be a generational story. Like all of Jack’s books, this will be a time capsule. Generations from now will pick this book up and understand in a way they may have not from a short paragraph in a history book, the significance of these last few years on a generation of warriors. That’s the power of fiction.

But like every great Carr novel, the real pleasure in reading it is being immersed in novel’s environment. Unlike the TERMINAL LIST books, Carr wanted to make this book a more grounded and localized thriller. No globetrotting required, aside from the cross-country trip for Walker, the wandering stranger, to reach New Orleans. What comes from that is an even richer and deeper exploration of the local culture and history. It’s an area that Carr already excelled at in all of his novels, but given a single set experience, you come to know New Orleans and its history in a far deeper way.

Standing proudly on the shoulders of giants like Tom Clancy and Ian Fleming, Jack Carr has definitively proved that he is a monumental and generational talent in the world. His passion for quality pushes everything he touches, from fiction and nonfiction, to co-authored thrillers and television - if a project is emblazoned with JACK CARR, it’s one to sit down and thoroughly enjoy. I’ve said it countless times, and without fail he never proves it wrong - nobody does it better than Jack Carr.

THE FOURTH OPTION is available now.

THE FOURTH OPTION - BUY NOW

The world is collapsing inward. Everyday, another innumerable local, family owned businesses fold under the weight and pressure of online shops, or heavily horizontally, and even vertically integrated megaliths like Walmart.

Everyday, the local charm, beauty and history of what makes America special is washed away just a little bit more. Today, I just wanted to write briefly on this unfortunate reality, and add in an opportunity to not only expand your library, but to do so in a way that promotes and elevates an independent bookseller, one of many in a network refusing to give in.

THE FOURTH OPTION

If you’re familiar with Jack Carr, author of the #1 New York Times bestselling The Terminal List series, then you’ve probably seen that with every new book launch, he has curated a special edition of his book - for no additional cost mind you - that is exclusively available via independent booksellers.

His classic approach has been the “shot-through” editions - where he shoots through the signature page prior to binding them into the books - using a gun from the novel. This year is different, and for a good reason. The “shot-through” books have been a special project specific to The Terminal List universe, but this year, Jack is debuting his first co-written thriller, featuring a new protagonist, making way for another intriguing way to support local.

The Fourth Option, releasing on May 12, is an exceptional read, an inspired and bloody reimagining of the “stranger comes to town” western tale, bringing the wandering warrior ethos of the American West into the modern landscape in an unrivaled story of justice, redemption, and sacrifice.

THE FOURTH OPTION

My full review will be coming soon, but you’ll love Chris Walker, and I implore you to take the time to join him on his travels across the United States in his 80’s VW Vanagon as he unleashes hell on those deserving.

THE BOOKPLATES

In place of the “shot-through” editions, four signed bookplates are available this year, with a corresponding vinyl sticker of the artwork, each pulled straight from the most important components of Chris Walker’s character and backstory. These are of course included with first edition copies of the thriller.

You can find all four bookplates while supplies last at the button below.

THE FOURTH OPTION BOOKPLATES

I’ve not hidden the ball here, I’m a dedicated and passionate fan of Jack’s work. He’s been a friend, mentor, and is one of the most dominating people in the space today. He’s been successful because he doesn’t compromise. Not himself, not the quality of his work, or his commitment to the brick and mortar booksellers that helped him fall in love with reading.

This campaign is one of my favorite parts of the year, because aside from being able to support an independent bookseller, I’ve begun using the list as a reference point for bookshops to visit if and when I find myself on the road. I was always the kid that when you got that little bit of vacation money with the family, would spend it on a book at the museum shop instead of a shirt or treat. I loved the intangible value of tying together a story that I was excited about with the place that it was purchased. Reading is all about that sort of intangible nature, you’re taking words on the page, the scent of the paper and ink, and the weight in your hands, and transforming into something more. A story, a memory, and something you, even when the sharpest details fade away, will carry with you forever. Adding in a specific store, a place dedicated to that sort of passionate cause, makes the journey through the pages even more fun.

PARTING SHOTS

I often write about the war on beauty, and it is absolutely a battle being fought on this line too. The charm, authenticity and importance of places where you and your children can go together to take part in reading, and growing deeper in your appreciation for stories - cannot be understated.

Thank you for your support of local sellers, and be sure to read The Fourth Option upon launch next week, and I’d encourage you to find the nearest book tour stop and attend as well, the conversation and time with Jack is always worth the drive!

ORDER YOUR BOOKPLATES

On April 13, 1953, Ian Fleming officially introduced the world to a character that soon became a cultural institution. A character that, on the page, defined a moment in time - the fall of the old world order in the post-War era. The conclusion of the British empire, the death of aristocracy as it had been known for generations. A brave new world, one that required an “ungentlemanly” sort of warfare behind the scenes.

A world that needed a blunt instrument. A world that needed James Bond.

The first chapter of CASINO ROYALE, aptly titled “The Secret Agent” opens with the following:

Few write as Fleming could. This opening flawlessly introduces the reader into the world of intrigue and drama that would define Fleming’s prose. Each of his novels would open in a similar fashion, as would many of the chapters within. Sets and scenery change in a whiplash of sharp imagery, such as the second chapter of DR. NO (a personal favorite in the entire canon).

The immersion into Fleming’s stories is immediate, and intoxicating - refusing to let you go.

The first chapter of CASINO ROYALE continues on within the mind of Bond as he contemplates the issues with robbing the casino, how to accomplish it, and how bloody it very well would be, in addition to sizing up his opponent before retiring to his suite. Fleming unapologetically tosses the reader headfirst into 007’s world. No lengthy exposition exists. No fraught origin story. Just a man in a casino, into the early hours of the morning, plotting.

Upon returning to his hotel room, we get another glimpse into the dangerous world Bond inhabits. Burglar alarms - hairs in drawers, talcum powder on unseen bits of handles - even a water level marked within the toilet - all serve a clear purpose, and are reviewed with the studious boredom of a mechanic changing his innumerable set of brake pads of the day. And, with one final act, Bond goes to sleep, his hand curled around the grip of a sawn barrel .38 Colt Police Positive.

Bond became a vehicle in which the sweeping changes in the world could be better understood. Fleming’s writings - truly up to the minute political espionage thrillers - are time capsules. From the culture to the world that came before, one that Fleming was holding onto through 007, the pages of his novels instantly transport the reader to the time of their writing.

CASINO ROYALE, and all that came after, are novels that will stand the test of time. Today, as we remember the anniversary of its publication, I implore you to pick up a copy (though not the new sanitized editions) and plunge yourself into the thrilling and dangerous world of Ian Fleming’s James Bond, 007.

In the film Casino Royale, the line “former SAS types” is uttered by Vesper Lynd when describing Bond – and she’s almost right. Based on a few indicators, it is clear that at least one iteration of James Bond was actually a member of the Special Boat Service, or SBS. While the SBS has a hand in glove history with the SAS, even being a part of it for a portion of World War Two, today I want to focus on the Special Boat Service in particular.

Connecting my passion for history back to the world of 007, I’ve been enjoying the opportunity to explore what Bond’s actual military service history may have looked like. Thanks to a great write-up at Forces.net, picking apart Bond’s uniform from each of its appearances on screen and in the novels, I’ve found some interesting things that simply warrant further discussion!

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A Very Brief History of the SBS

First, I’d like to present a brief history of the Special Boat Service, prior to the discussion of Bond’s relationship with this fabled unit. The following is from my friend Paul, in a post we put together recently celebrating James Bond and the SBS. You can find Paul on Instagram here for some of the best military history content out there.

The Special Boat Service is the United Kingdom’s premier maritime counterterrorism unit. Developed during the Second World War as a specialized folding kayak raiding party, committing daring small scale raids on German and Italian installations throughout North Africa and the Mediterranean. Later, after casualties whittled down the unit, they were absorbed into the fledgling SAS.

In 1946 the unit was disbanded. However in 1947 the unit got a new lease on life, seeing service in Palestine, Korea, the Falklands, and being assigned sabotage missions for the defense of Germany in the event of an invasion by Warsaw Pact forces. In 1987 the unit was officially renamed the Special Boat Service and became officially designated part of United Kingdom Special Forces Group along with 14 intelligence company and their sister special operations group the SAS.

Although officially a maritime unit, the SBS operates in a wide variety of environments including some where the only water involved is in their canteens. Similar in capability to the SAS, the SBS hunted SCUDs in the 1991 Gulf War, conducted peacekeeping in East Timor, participated in hostage rescue operations in Sierra Leone, and had an instrumental role in the opening days of the war in Afghanistan. Today, the SBS is the mysterious sister service to the SAS. Very little information is given to the public officially or unofficially.

James Bond’s Military History

During the Brosnan era, we catch a glimpse of his passport, which shows a birthdate of November 10, 1953. The year ’53 is of course a hallowed one in the Bond canon, as it was the year Ian Fleming published Casino Royale. It also actually happens to be the year that Brosnan was born! This places Brosnan’s Bond in his early 40’s during the events of GoldenEye, Tomorrow Never Dies, and the World is Not Enough. This birthdate, among other things we’ll get to shortly, places Bond’s service from the early 70’s forward.

• James Bond during the Brosnan era was styled as “Commander James Bond, OBE DSC RN.”

• OBE – Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire

• DSC – The Distinguished Service Cross

• RN – The Royal Navy

In addition, when looking at his uniform in Tomorrow Never Dies, Bond is clearly wearing SBS jump wings, confirming his connection with the SBS. What’s also interesting is the variety of ribbons worn by Bond on his dress uniform. Again, my thanks to Forces.net for the great writ-up ID’ing these medals.

Most standout to me is the Rhodesia Medal, which signals that Bond took some part in “Operation AGILA” in 1979-1980, which was the peacekeeping operation during the twilight of Rhodesia, as it became what is known today as Zimbabwe. Any student of military history has at least a slight familiarity with the Rhodesian Bush War and the Selous Scouts. Regardless of your leanings, these individuals are a fascinating study, and certainly are worth the time to learn more about. With questionable yet effective tactics, these units took the fight directly to the enemy in the most unconventional of manners.

Again, no matter your opinion, it is intriguing to discover that Bond had even a small role in this conflict, albeit at the end.

James Bond’s SBS

Based on the above timeline, we can safely make the assumption that James Bond was connected to the Special Boat Service during the 1970’s, during his early military career. With the Falklands War in the early 80’s, one can also stretch the imagination to include Bond’s career taking him there prior to his MI6 days.

A Bond birthed in the fires of the Cold War, learning the realities of the world as an SBS man during the severe rise in global terrorism becomes a character with so much more depth and detail. With this, we find a character that is not just a “relic of the Cold War” but a man who, in his 20’s and 30’s, watched the collapse of Soviet era Communist rule while also managing the growing crisis of terrorism. History is a savage and heartbreaking educator, and the events of the 1970’s are no different. In that decade, the SBS was given the Maritime Counter-Terrorism Role with the role of protecting cruise ships, oil platforms, ferries, and sea ports. The SBS was also active during The Troubles, taking part in covert surveillance and anti-gun running operations in 1975 for example.

You can read more about the history of the SBS here.

To me, someone interested in connecting with and using Bond’s kit in my daily life, on the trail, and on the range, this opens a unique window regarding what kit James Bond would’ve used as a SBS operator during this time. The core of Bond comes down to the pieces that make up his everyday carry, the tools of his trade. We all know about the Walther PPK, issued by MI6, and the last few decades of the Omega connection, but what about what came before that? In the SBS, James Bond would’ve been issued completely different equipment. The Brosnan Era and Craig 007 would have been well acquainted with the Hi-Power, a pistol that found itself used in both CASINO ROYALE and NO TIME TO DIE.

The Browning Hi-Power

The Browning Hi-Power is a double-stack, hammer-fired, and single-action 9mm handgun, and is the final project of John Moses Browning, the godfather of the firearms world. Browning would pass away prior to the completion of this design, leading to Dieudonne Saive completing the work on the gun in 1935, dubbing it the P-35 Grande Puissance or “Hi-Power.”

Over its lifetime, the handgun was adopted by more than 50 armies, and has seen action in over 93 countries in their law enforcement agencies.

While revolutionary in many ways, the pistol is fitted with a controversial feature, a magazine disconnect. This safety mechanism prevents the firearms from functioning when the magazine is removed, or not seated correctly. For a combat pistol, this is less than ideal, as it makes the trigger grittier, and also prevents the magazine from dropping free after pressing the release.

What makes this such a wonderful pistol for Bond is of course its British military heritage, including service as the dedicated sidearm of the SAS from WWII through recent years. The L9A1 (British Military designation for the HP) was also standard issue for the SBS (Special Boat Service) until recently. Both have been replaced by yet another Craig era staple, the Sig Sauer P226, which we happen to see Bond wield frequently in this film.

The No Time to Die Hi-Power

photo © United Artists / Universal Pictures

Bond is a man of heritage, of classics, and of familiarity. A retired 007, would have been very familiar with this firearm. It only fits that when reaching for a dedicated home defense firearm, he would reach for a functional classic like the Hi-Power. While we only see it for the briefest of instances, we can see that Bond’s pistol is interesting, as it is outfitted with a style ring hammer and plastic grips which are typically found on MKIII Hi-Powers. This blending of old and new may just be a prop department accident, but I think it speaks well to Bond’s personal preferences. Ring hammers are popular on the Hi-Power platform as they prevent the dreaded hammer bit caused by the pistol’s short beavertail and aggressively sharp hammer. The newer production grips are a jet black polymer, and are detailed with a diamond stipple pattern and arched finger rests.

Bond, in his supreme confidence, carries this pistol inside the waistband at the appendix position (AIWB) without a holster or belt, for the briefest of moments, and then proceeds to lock it away in a concealed drawer prior to leaving his home to meet Felix Leiter.

As I’ve often said, guns don’t exist in a vacuum. So, aside from the Hi-Power, what time piece would Bond have been issued at the time of Brosnan’s service - and how might it inform his selection of an Omega in years?

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The History of the Rolex 5513/5517

The Rolex MilSub, named for the combined terms “Military & Submariner” is arguably the most famous military issued diving watch of all time, especially the 5513/5517 series. This particular series was manufactured expressly for the British Special Forces from 1971-1979, with a total 1,200 units being produced.

This limited production, along with the hardships faced by issued equipment – as Bond tells Q in Goldfinger, “Well, you’d be surprised the amount of wear and tear that goes on out there in the field,” has left us with only around 180 total Rolex 5513/5517’s today. It is also worth noting that this “double stamp” Rolex did not have a civilian counterpart, adding to its rarity.

There’s so many subtle details and changes made by MOD requests on this timepiece. One of my personal favorites is the circled letter “T” just above the six o’clock position. This symbol confirmed that the original and hazardous radium lume had been removed from the dial and replaced with Tritium by the MOD subcontractor Burford. For those unfamiliar with the tragedies caused by radium dials, I recommend seeing the play “Radium Girls” written by D.W. Gregory. Radium was outlawed in the late 1960’s due to the severe health impacts of the compound, and that show does a wonderful job of discussing the people who made luxury watches and paid dearly for it with mysterious ailments.

Tritium is still a well-regarded luminescent and is used in everything from watch faces to night sights on handguns, such as the Sig Sauer X-Ray Night Sights by Bond on his P226R. Tritium does decay overtime though, and with the decay came a color change to the marked regions, to a soft, sand or khaki color.

By the 1990’s, as Lindy Hemming put it, Rolex was no longer the tool watch brand it once was, it belonged to the dandy, making the Seamaster a worthy successor to Bond’s theoretical Rolex 5513/5517.

Parting Shots

This certainly isn’t an exhaustive history of Bond’s potential military history - we’ve only delved into the most recent cinematic 00’s here. A history of the Fleming Bond, and his impact on Connery’s 007 is an article demanding to be written as well.

To those familiar with modern fiction, the inclusion of extreme detail for items such as the tools of the hero’s trade are incredibly common, but rarely to the extent found in Ian Fleming’s text written 70 years ago. Authors today rarely go the distance to ground their characters in the real world as much as Fleming, with the exception of a few, notably Jack Carr in his James Reece saga. Such level of detail has created passionate responses in readers to the choices made since Fleming’s first novel in 1953, and even today, we continue to discuss these issues at length.

Bond’s Galco Executive Shoulder Holster, Walther P99 Gen 1, and Omega Seamaster Professional 2531.80.00, which first appeared with an automatic movement in 1997’s Tomorrow Never Dies. (Photo Credit: James Rupley/ @omegabondwatches)

Today, I am thrilled to be writing in the Dispatch. My name is Caleb Daniels (@commandobond), and I am a lifelong fan of all things Bond, with a particular passion for his style and selection of daily carry items. While this certainly lends a focus to sartorial items, holsters, and handguns, it also includes one of the most important pieces of any discerning gentleman’s wardrobe – his timepiece. I’m grateful for the chance to share my viewpoint today in a playful response to the “Why Rolex” piece previously published. Here, we will first share the full story of Omega’s origins with James Bond, followed by a detailed analysis of the history of product placement in Bond, and the critical role it plays in keeping the franchise alive. While this piece does not serve as a direct response to the first Dispatch, it aims to present a more thorough history of Bond, offer a better understanding of why adjustments have been made, and propose a case for why we can celebrate Omega’s inclusion in 007’s history.

The Omega Story

I’d like to begin by first clearing the air and telling the true story of how Omega found its way into the Bond films. While today it is clearly one of the most powerful and important marketing relationships in cinema, it did not start that way.

Pierce Brosnan and Omega (Photo Credit: Unknown)

Rather, it is due to the actions of costume designer Lindy Hemming. Hemming’s journey with Bond began in GoldenEye (1995), and she was faced with a challenge that few had been faced with before. There was to be a new Bond actor (Pierce Brosnan), one that was coming on the heels of a commercial disaster (Dalton’s second and final outing Licence to Kill, which released inopportunely against Batman ’89 and suffered the consequences). This was also to be the first Bond film to be made post the fall of the Soviet Union.

The relevance of Bond was in question, as was the prospect of GoldenEye. The space between Licence to Kill and GoldenEye was the longest gap between films to date, six years, and with the poor reception of the previous one, it seemed as if Bond’s journey on the silver screen may be at an end. This was certainly at the forefront of everyone’s mind during the production of GoldenEye, and yet it was in the face of these challenges that arguably one of the finest Bond films was created. Now, what exactly does this have to do with Omega?

Like every other Bond actor’s first outing, the goal of the film was to reintroduce the character through the lens of that era. Think Live and Let Die (1973). Moore was introduced wielding a revolver (although he carries a PPK in the film, promo imagery and the finale leaned heavily on wheel guns), sipping bourbon (not vodka martinis) and smoking cigars (not cigarettes). Minor adjustments to the layperson, but significant shifts to the stalwart fan. This process, and the space between films inspired Hemming to take a step back from Rolex, as she explained in a New York Times article.

“There hadn’t been a Bond for a few years and I was given the opportunity to rethink him,” she said. “I wanted him to be more modern and European.”

With that motive in mind, she looked to those she knew for guidance, including friends of her father who were Naval men, and who preferred Omega. “They were gentlemen, good guys, ready for anything,” she said. “Omega was perfect for a Naval commander who dived and rescued people.”

In Hemming’s words, Rolex was not the brand of the time for a man like Bond in 1995. “The Rolex watch had become rather flash,” Ms. Hemming said. “Rolex was part of a city boy culture. It didn’t seem appropriate for Bond at that moment.”

What’s most important, however, is the fact that the original deal did not include product placement. Hemming herself reached out to Omega and was given a Quartz movement Seamaster 300M, reference number 2541.80.00.

Bond’s Galco Executive Shoulder Holster, Omega Seamaster Professional 2541.80.00 Quartz Movement, on a Hirsch Toronto and (non-explosive) Parker Jotter pen. (Photo Credit: Rupley/@Omegabonwatches)

“There was no product placement incentive in 1995 whatsoever. I went to them, and of course they were interested. But it was no more than helping us. They gave us the watches for nothing.”

(Photo Credit: Bond Franchise, Thunderballs)

I find this to be an important detail in this story. While this relationship quickly expanded past a costume designer’s choice and into one of the most foundational product deals in cinema, like with Fleming, it came from a natural and organic place and does not deserve to be chastised on those grounds. Rather, like many of Fleming’s own choices, this was a selection that was made by personal preference to match the moment, and then later became a marketing engine to keep the film series alive.

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Fleming Lore & Product Placement

(Photo Credit: Rupley)

Fleming was a true pioneer. He sought in his writing to clearly ground Bond in the world around him, despite the incredible adventures he found himself part of.

It’s this level of detail that still allows fans today to source and locate everything from the toiletries of Bond to his preferred alcohol brands (for example, just ask my friend James Rupley about his fruitless attempts to get a bottle of Old Grand-dad bourbon featured in the novel Live and Let Die), recipes for scrambled eggs, and in the case of this article, his timepieces. In this section, we will be pulling from Fleming’s own letters surrounding his time writing Bond, as found in the book The Man with the Golden Typewriter, Ian Fleming’s James Bond Letters.

(Photo Credit: Rupley)

Today, this level of detail, particularly in the vein of firearms and watches, is often met with skepticism, complaints, and even accusations of pay-offs for the inclusion of such pieces. Fleming, however, wrote long before product placement was the standard fare, and he set the stage for the cinematic Bond to take part in the very same level of intense detail. His unique passion was for verisimilitude, the creation of hyper-real worlds and adventures for his fictional hero. As Fleming himself said in a letter written in response to the director of the fragrance brand Floris, which had written him thanking him for their brief inclusion in the novel Moonraker, “My books are spattered with branded products of one sort or another, as I think it is stupid to invent bogus names for products which are household words, and you may be interested to know that this is the first time a name-firm has had the kindly thought of acknowledging the published tribute.”

-Ian Fleming to Michael Bodenham, Esq., Director, Floris Ltd., 89 Jerymn Street, London, S.W.1.

Floris is a brilliant example of a brand that found itself included due to its own use in Fleming’s personal life. His preferred fragrance, No. 89, is still available today and is a favorite of Bond fans throughout the world, again showing the staying power of even the smallest of association with 007. In fact, Floris has happily leaned into the Bond connection, even releasing a No. 007 scent for the 60th anniversary celebrations last year.

(Photo Credit: Rupley/ @Omegabonwatches)

(Photo Credit: Bond Franchise / Omega)

From day one of film production, it seems that Fleming was being written by brands asking for placement deals in Doctor No. Fleming wrote producer Harry Saltzman about such things and an unspecified brand in 1961, and his letter seems to set some clear parameters for how he selected products, a template that has been followed well since.

Fleming to Harry Saltzman December 7th, 1961:

“My Dear Harry,

I have acknowledged the attached but told them to get in direct touch with your Company.

Incidentally, I expect you will be getting similar approaches from other branded products used by James Bond.

I don’t know what your policy in the matter will be, but I have personally found that the use of branded names in my stories helps the verisimilitude, so long as the products are quality products.

Admittedly one is giving free publicity to these people, but I don’t think it matters so long as the products are in fact really good.

Anyway, over to you.”

Again, while Fleming himself never was paid for an endorsement, he certainly understood the power of it in producing realism, and left the decision to the film producers for how to proceed.

(Photo Credit: Rupley)

While the films have been met with scrutiny as described above, product placement contracts have continued to provide fans with new silver screen adventures for ages. Tomorrow Never Dies reportedly covered 100% of its product budget with brand tie-ins in 1997, and 2012’s Skyfall had nearly a third of its budget covered by a deal with Heineken. The producers of Bond have attributed this level of detail to Fleming’s work as well. The reality is, we may not have the caliber of films with the incredible production quality and stunt work that we have today without these endorsements.

“Fleming describes in great detail all the things that Bond uses, whether it comes down to a glass of wine, a meal he is eating, a car he is driving, or what suit he is wearing. That’s how Bond became synonymous with quality goods. That notion really started with the books. If you think you may not be alive tomorrow, you might as well have the best of everything.” – Barbara Broccoli

Now, while Fleming wrote with a great deal of intricate detail surrounding Bond’s clothes, tools, cars, and more, it took him until On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, book number 11, to switch Bond to a Rolex.

Fleming’s original choice, and defense of it over a Rolex, was described by Fleming in a letter to a fan in 1958 (five years before OHMSS was published). This letter was written in response to a fan’s request that Bond upgrade his timepiece to, seemingly based on Fleming’s response, a Rolex Oyster Perpetual. For those unfamiliar with Fleming, he often referred to himself as the biographer of Bond, and frequently wrote as if his character were a real man, which is clear in the letter below.

“June 5, 1958

I have just got back from abroad to find your sapient rebuke of 007’s timekeeping equipment.

I have discussed this with him and he points out that the Rolex Oyster Perpetual weighs about six ounces and would appreciably slow up the use of his left hand in combat. His practice, in fact, is to use fairly cheap, expendable wrist watches on expanding metal bracelets which can be slipped over the thumb and used in the form of a knuckle-duster, either on the inside or outside of the hand.

In passing on his comments to you, I would add that James Bond has trained himself to tell time by the sun in either hemisphere within a few minutes.

Thank you, nevertheless, for raising the point and 007 wishes to assure you that when an appropriate time-piece is available he will wear it.”

It seems that Fleming finally gave in, and wrote the Rolex Oyster Perpetual into On Her Majesty’s Secret Service five years later. His expanding metal bracelet remained.

(Photo Credit: Rupley/ @Omegabondwatches)

I make this case in its entirety to say this – Fleming himself only named a Rolex as Bond’s dedicated watch after writing ten Bond stories, (Bond briefly wears one while diving in Live and Let Die, 1954, but according to Fleming’s letter, daily wore other watches until OHMSS) and he himself argued against its inclusion initially as well. There’s nothing wrong with the brand, nor would I argue that Rolex watches do not have a place on Bond’s wrist. But if everything Fleming wrote remained today, and no evolution with the times had taken place, the character would still be driving a 1930s Bentley Blower and carrying a skeletonized .25 ACP Beretta that was underpowered and outdated even in 1953. Omega has a place in the Bond story, and it is one born out of a reimagining of an iconic character, a reimagining that saved the franchise, inspired GoldenEye 007 N64, and created a new generation of fans. Deriding the brand or discounting its inclusion in the mythos is a misunderstanding of history. Both Rolex and Omega have a place in the legacy of Bond, and they deserve our respect and celebration.

ORDER THE BOOK

(Photo Credit: Rupley)

My sincere thanks to WOE for the opportunity to write this counter argument, my friend Lorenzo Anselmo (@omegabondwatches) for providing me and James Rupley with unfettered access to his astounding Omega collection.

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The photography above, and much of the text stems from my book, LICENSED TROUBLESHOOTER - THE GUNS OF JAMES BOND – the first comprehensive study of all the firearms of James Bond, including every novel (Fleming and otherwise) and every screen treatment of the character. Other critical items, such as his watches, will be discussed in great detail, dissecting the most essential carry implements of one of the world’s most celebrated action heroes, James Bond, 007. The book is now available to order here!

It’s 4:15pm on a Thursday afternoon as my plane descends into Dallas Love Field. I thank my friend again for telling me about this smaller regional airport, as DFW is one of the few places on earth I’ve told people is where to spend time if you don’t believe in purgatory. But aside from skipping the nonsense of that massively inefficient transit hub, I’m thankful to be on the ground so close to my final destination. My flight had been delayed, and I had somewhere to be, and to be in black tie for, by six.

I was on my way to celebrate the opening of Shepherd’s Dallas, Shepherd’s being a made-to-measure clothier in Kansas City. I had known of them since their opening in my hometown back in 2023, but finally took the plunge in the last year to finally give their work a go with a set of cocktail cuff shirts in a heavier weight but still elegant Thomas Mason fabric. Since that first batch of shirting, I’ve traded most of my long sleeve polos and jerseys for their interpretations of these pieces. The Shepherd’s collar is gorgeous in design, my friend and firm Co-Founder Nathan Price did an excellent job producing something with a healthy roll and height, making even my casual shirting feel more elevated, and allowing them to be tucked and paired with tailoring with ease.

Shirting is all well and good, but like I said, this event was a black tie affair. Unfortunately for me upon receiving my invite, I had discovered that my current dinner suit, cut five years ago for my wedding, just wasn’t going to work. Nathan was kind enough to remeasure me, and we determined I had graduated from the trim 36R I was wearing out of college into a reduced in profile 42R due to my shoulder width.

The Lazenby Method

So here I was, a massive Bond and sartorial nerd, roughly 30 days out from a black tie opening of a tailoring shop owned by folks I considered friends, with nothing but a diamond tipped bow tie and the NO TIME TO DIE T.M. Lewin braces in hand. Not the most ideal of scenarios, but gratefully I had done more with less before.

My first call was to Nathan, a bit of a Hail Mary, after thinking about his showroom and the surplus of dinner suits I had seen hanging about, in the hopes that one had been forgotten or left behind. After all, that’s how George Lazenby bluffed his way into the Bond role - slipping by Anthony Sinclair and picking up one of Connery’s own suits that the original 00 had not elected to retrieve. I knew that I wouldn’t have the time for a new Shepherd’s suit to be cut, but if possible felt proper in wearing one of their pieces of evening wear.

Unbelievably, there was in fact a suit there, in my preferred styling too, that fit marvelously.

I’ve always been partial to the classics (if that hasn’t become abundantly clear in my writing or photography over on Instagram these last six or so years), and have always felt that the dinner suit in DR. NO which is used to introduce the world to James Bond, 007, was the perfect incarnation of the concept. It is a suit that isn’t overstated, but relaxed and refined in its detailing, with a shawl collar, double vents, and a full chest with a nipped waist.

In both design and tailoring, the suit is one that feels like one ought to just live in it. I love the Craig era, but one knock that I’ve come to accept in the last few years - particularly with SKYFALL and SPECTRE (QUANTUM is a stylistic masterpiece) is just how nonfunctional many of the tailoring choices were, suits and trousers that looked excellent while standing still, but lost their function and grace the moment he began to attempt anything resembling mobility. Connery’s tailoring was literally slept in by the actor to become familiar and comfortable with the sensation of his new style, and that’s exactly what I felt - in all the rambling thoughts I just chased you through - when first sliding that Shepherd’s jacket over my shoulders. A Lazenby inspired ploy paired with Connery focused tailoring notes - which I ought to add are also those of Shepherd’s to the finest of details and ethos - and I had sorted my dilemma. Unlike Lazenby, I was blessed with this suit as a gift, so I want to take a moment to say thank you directly to my friend Nathan for his generosity. I hope I wore it well my friend.

With some light alterations the suit was resting in my luggage, alongside a Brioni pleated shirt ($100 Ebay) and a pair of nearly unworn Polo by Crockett & Jones benchmade two eyelet derby shoes that I somehow found for $50. As I was partaking in raiding the bar that evening, I had packed my James Bond Lifestyle 10th Anniversary gold Walther PPK cufflinks as the final detail. I’m nothing but consistent after all, and hate going without.

The Evening

After a remarkably quick baggage recovery - flying with firearms often adds extra time in the recovery of the hard case as it is supposed to go to the oversized bag area for an ID check - small airports move fast and I had my guns in minutes - my pal and compatriot in festivities for the evening - Jordan - had picked me up curbside and we were on our way, with a 5:30PM ETA. Thankfully this would not be the first (or anywhere near the last) time I’ve had to change into a dinner suit in a brief period of time - I’ll have to put an article together about how I nearly died going to Luke Taggart’s wedding soon to prove that point.

Rolling up to Shepherd’s Dallas, I was beaming. The Kansas City location is beautiful, but modest in comparison to the converted and original Craftsman style home in lower Greenville. I live in a similarly styled neighborhood, so it felt like coming home, but with every window gilded with fine tailoring.

Darting into the back of the shop after a handshake to those I was meeting for the first time and a bear hug with Nathan for allowing me to come out, I tore through my bag and donned the dinner suit I had been so focused on putting together as I prepared for this night, for the first time, I saw all the pieces on at once, and the ensemble couldn’t have been better. Nathan’s notes that I had dutifully passed on to my preferred local tailor were perfect.

My timing couldn’t have been better, as I stepped out of the back my amazing friend Buck Pierson of Staccato had rolled up in a black G Wagon dressed to the nines in Tom Ford’s NO TIME TO DIE dinner suit, with the Tom Ford cylinder cufflinks worn in SKYFALL peaking out below his jacket’s gauntlet cuffs. It was time to step into the Shepherd’s backyard and light up a Mayflower cigar.

I won’t spend too much time on the particulars of the evening’s conversations or company further, only to say that it was immaculate. There’s something really impactful about gathering with people who are aligned with you on so many of the most important things in life to relax and celebrate. Shepherd’s tailoring, as an ethos, is designed to be a core part of your life, to be something you live in, not simply don for the few special moments in life.

That requires a certain level of confidence and conviction, and a comfortability that is best found amongst like-minded friends and colleagues. The work Nathan, Chris, Harrison, Austin, Curtis, Joseph, Oliver, Hank, and Maria (and anyone I may have failed to mention here) have done has built an environment that has successfully brought so many people together in this manner.

Parting Shots

Congratulations to everyone on such a beautiful shop. The war on beauty that I’ve discussed regarding firearms is one being waged heavily in the world of clothing as well. Just spend an hour at an airport or anywhere in public and you know exactly what I mean. Utility as a supreme virtue has made gray, drab, pajama style sweats and sets the primary uniform of the average individual. But we can do better. And we should. Dressing well also doesn’t mean I’m demanding a shirt and tie daily, but the refinement of details, the care of choice of fabrics, of cuts. I live primarily in light wash denim and layered field shirts or long sleeve polos for example. The danger that is now facing me is that Shepherd’s can and will make both.

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I would encourage you to visit either location, or to book a virtual fitting. Take the time to have things made for you, designed with men of conviction who deeply care about their craft and the finer details of it. The Dallas store in particular is a true “third place” where one should unwind. Grab a coffee at La La Land next door, plop onto one of the sofas, and begin your journey with Shepherd’s. You won’t be disappointed.

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