[Dbl Auto]

I have a Browning Double Automatic from about 1956 that had a recoil pad added by Gil Hebard Guns in Knoxville, IL. I have added a deer barrel to this gun and have been thinking about the gun's history while using it this week in Ohio's deer gun season. I had a bunch of time to ponder about the gun because in about 10 hours in the tree stand I saw no deer. At some points I have to admit I became a tree hugger as the winds got gusty. I would love to hear about Mr. Hebard and his shop if anyone has info on him or his work.
Doug

 

[Barrelbulge(Fl)]

If it the same Gil Hebard, I beleive that he got into accurizing Ruger MkII's for competition and was doing very well. Bulge.

 

[Dbl Auto]

Still in business today? The work on this gun appears to be from the 1950's or 1960's.
Doug

 

[Bruce Em]

He was still in business a year or so ago

 

[Dbl Auto]

google finds him alive and well, or least the business. Seems that he has made quite a name for himself since working on my gun!
Doug

 

[crusha]

Yeah, he ran a decent size a mail-order business, primarily pistol-related stuff. He used to cater a lot to the bullseye pistol community...bought a few things from him at one point or another. Smith & Wesson dealer also, if I recall.

 

[dickgtax]

Gil Hebard had a catalog with everything a pistol shooter could ever want -or dream about- including all the custom 45's. You have to remember that catalog.

 

[skeeljc]

I bought a few S&W's from him back in the 60's and 70's when I had a FFL. I am sure I bought some pistol accessories for IPSC too. Good people to deal with.

Jim Skeel

 

[RogerNRA]

The business is still open in Knoxville..........Roger

 

[Sky Buster]

Gil is in his mid-80's now and has no children. Unknown what will happen
to the business when he passes. Gil is a real gentlemen and was a nationally
ranked pistol competitor during the 50's to mid 70's.