William Shipman was born on June 23, 1947 and grew up in Elysburg, Pennsylvania. He began building rifles in 1978 and has built rifles on a part-time basis since 1983. William primarily builds Kentucky rifles but also builds English fowlers and rifles. His trademark is his signature - W. G. Shipman.

William was featured in Guns Magazine in April 1989 and in Muzzle Blasts in August 1996 (cover). He held seminars at Dixon's Gunmakers Fair in the late 1980's through the 1990's. He received Best of Show at Dixon's Gunmakers Fair in 1983, 1986, 1987, and 1988.

Specific pieces made by William include the English fowler made in 1989 (see photo below) and a Kentucky rifle made in 1985 (also shown below).

Please visit William's website at www.billshipman.com

Resource: Contemporary Longrifle Association Member.