Located at the tri-junction of Jawaharlal Nehru Road, Lenin Sarani and Chittaranjan Avenue in the heart of central Kolkata’s Esplanade, the East India Arms Company stands testament to the city’s long and storied past. One of the few remaining gun shops in Kolkata, the store has been catering to firearms enthusiasts, security personnel and hunters alike for over a century. With its rich history and wide array of firearms, the store at 1, Chowringhee (Jawaharlal Nehru) Road, continues to draw customers who value tradition, quality and expertise that comes with generations of knowledge. Picture above shows the main facade of the shop, nameplate and huge interiors
All photographs by Sannidh Raychaudhuri
The store attracts a varied clientele, from retired army officers and police personnel to private security agents and licensed civilians. Many customers have been loyal to the store for generations, often returning to buy firearms or have their existing ones serviced and maintained. The personal touch of the staff, their expertise, and the rich heritage of the store make it a favourite among those who value authenticity
One of the standout features of the East India Company Gun Store is its repair services. The shop employs skilled gunsmiths who specialise in maintaining and repairing old firearms. For collectors and enthusiasts, the shop is a treasure trove, offering antique weapons for sale and servicing. Shotguns from manufacturers such as Benelli, Browning and Mossberg are available for those interested in clay shooting or home defence. Prices for shotguns generally range between Rs 85,000 and Rs 2,50,000
A collection of vintage spring-piston air rifles, .22 caliber, displayed alongside essential maintenance tools. These airguns, with their distinct wooden stocks and simple mechanical design, have been a staple for target shooting and pest control for decades, embodying the craftsmanship of Kolkata’s firearms heritage and (right) United Shot air rifle pellets displayed at the store priced at Rs 350 per box. The store offers pistols and revolvers from renowned manufacturers like Beretta, Colt, and Smith & Wesson, starting from Rs 50,000 for entry-level model and extending up to Rs 1,50,000 for high-end brands with special features like advanced optics and extended magazine capacities
Owning a gun from East India Arms Company is about more than just protection or sport. It is an investment in a piece of Kolkata’s history. The firearms, though modern, come with a legacy of trust and expertise. Prices reflect this quality and history, ensuring that customers receive top-tier products that are not only functional but also carry a story within them. Featured on top are tools and equipment for gun restoration and maintenance and (above) display of gun oils and maintenance products alongside a sign for Game King guns, highlighting the store’s range of firearm accessories. Catering to hobbyists and beginners, the shop also stocks a range of air rifles, with prices starting from Rs 12,000. These are popular among those who are not licensed to own firearms but wish to practise shooting for sport
While prices may be on the higher end compared to other gun stores in India, the range of available options and the rich history attached to the store make it a preferred choice for people. For hunting enthusiasts and sports shooters, the store stocks rifles from brands like Winchester, Remington, and Ruger. Available in both bolt-action and semi-automatic configurations, these rifles are priced between Rs 75,000 and Rs 3,00,000, depending on the make, model, and additional customisations. Featured in picture above are deer trophies along with stacked guns in glass showcases at the store
