R.L. Wilson is the most published author in the history of firearms. When R.L. Wilsons career began in 1960 he has produced some 50 books, and more than 325 articles, auction catalogues, book introductions and monographs on firearms, historical figures, hunting and the art of the engraver.
In 2004 he was selected “The Jack Slack Writer of the Year” by Leupold & Stevens, as well as the “Shooting Sports Ambassador” by the World Forum on the Future of Sports Shooting Activities. R.L. Wilson has appeared in numerous television documentaries – among them the History Channel’s “Tales of the Gun,” A&E’s “Story of the Gun” and “The Real West” (narrated by Kenny Rogers) and the PBS American Experience “Annie Oakley.”
In the $2.25 million hunting and conservation film, “In the Blood,” Wilson was co-executive producer (with the Hon. William E. Simon), and was a featured participant on screen.
R.L. Wilson Appointed Curator at National Firearms Museum
In 2000 he was appointed Consulting Curator to the National Firearms Museum, Fairfax, Virginia. He is a consultant to museums and private collectors, and from April 1964 to the end of 1965 was employed at the Colt company, as management trainee, and then Assistant Manager, Department of Public Relations & Advertising. For decades since he has assisted the company on historical and engraving matters. His career began with internships at the Corcoran Gallery of Art (Washington, D.C., 1959), the Wadsworth Atheneum (1960) and the Royal Armouries, H.M. Tower of London (Carleton College, 1960).
