Close your eyes for a moment and travel back in time. It all begins with a passionate man, driven by a deep love for craftsmanship, precision, and a job well done. Over the years, this passion has been passed down, shaped, and nurtured, becoming a precious legacy.
Every piece created carries a story, an emotion, and the imprint of a living heritage. Let yourself be drawn into a journey where tradition and excellence come together, and discover how Verney-Carron became far more than a name: a French legend that has stood the test of time.
1820
Once upon a time… Claude and Antoinette
For centuries, the city of Saint-Étienne has been renowned for the quality and expertise of its master gunsmiths, so much so that Louis XV declared it a “royal manufactory” in 1764. It is within this tradition of excellence that Claude Verney finds his place.
At the age of 20, he distinguishes himself by winning first prize for rifle wood engraving at the city’s gunsmithing competition.
Recognized for his talent, he sets up his own workshop. He marries Antoinette Carron, his soulmate, who becomes both his life partner and his business partner. Together, they build far more than a family: they create a name destined to endure through time and to live on in the hearts of hunters and nature enthusiasts.
1867
Honours and International Awards
The Verney-Carron company was awarded the gold medal at the 1867 Paris Universal Exposition for its innovative approach to firearm design. Further distinctions were regularly granted at subsequent World Fairs: again in Paris in 1878, 1889, 1900 and 1931, as well as in Amsterdam in 1883, Saint Petersburg in 1897, Hanoi in 1902, Liège in 1930, Brussels in 1959, and many others.
1936
Survival and fighting spirit
The economic crisis following the 1929 stock market crash brought a period of recession. Verney-Carron responded by broadening its activities, distributing fishing and tennis equipment, and most notably by manufacturing bicycles under its own brand starting in 1936.
This temporary yet strategic diversification enabled the company to survive, with determination, throughout the difficult years of the Second World War.
1996
Sagittaire, more than just a shot of powder
Verney-Carron launches the Sagittaire, the first French over-and-under shotgun produced on a large scale. It immediately fascinates a wide number of hunters and quickly secures a leading position on the market. It also becomes the brand’s emblem.
This success marks a decisive turning point in the company’s history and firmly strengthens its reputation over the long term.
2002
Between comfort and technical performance
2004
Custom-made firearm, a symbol of heritage and transmission
Verney-Carron seeks to revive its origins and artisanal heritage. The company acquires Demas. This pooling of expertise and talents gives rise to an outstanding workshop where each custom-made firearm tells a unique story, shaped with and for its clients.
More than a remarkable firearm, the shotgun becomes a true symbol of heritage, transmission, and investment.
2010
French excellence serving law enforcement
2020
200 candles to blow out
The Verney-Carron family, bringing together the descendants of Claude and Antoinette, the employees, and all its customers, celebrates the company’s 200th anniversary.
This very special milestone leads the family to reflect on what the Verney-Carron name truly represents: its heritage and its purpose, to offer everyone, hunters and nature lovers alike, the very best of French craftsmanship.
2025
Verney-Carron: a French story that continues to be written
For over two centuries, Verney-Carron has embodied a tradition of excellence, where every firearm tells a story. Born in Saint-Étienne, the historic cradle of French gunsmithing, the company has successfully endured decades, passing down a unique expertise from generation to generation, establishing itself as one of the oldest French firearms manufacturers still in operation today.
However, the Saint-Étienne-based company has faced numerous challenges in order to continue its journey, leading it to make new strategic decisions. It is within this context that a new chapter has begun…
In 2025, Verney-Carron joins the Rivolier Group, a major player in the distribution of hunting, sport shooting, and defence equipment, a partner capable of preserving its heritage while opening new perspectives for its future. This union brings together two companies deeply rooted in the industrial history of Saint-Étienne, sharing a common goal: to promote French craftsmanship worldwide.
Today, more than just a historic brand, Verney-Carron is a Maison looking toward the future. Supported by the Rivolier Group, it continues to live, grow, and innovate here in France, in the heart of its region of origin, guided by a strong conviction: a fully satisfied customer is the best guarantee of a company’s longevity.
Because some stories never end—they are passed on and reinvented.
