Heinz-Ulrich Krieghoff died July 23rd at the age of 87 at his home near Ulm, Germany. Under his tenure, the company which carries his name, H. Krieghoff GmbH, continued its long tradition of being a leader in making fine sporting arms known all over the world. Born April 15, 1922, in the well-known German gun makers’ town of Suhl in the eastern part of Germany, Krieghoff became interested early in his family’s gun making business, which was founded by his grandfather in 1886. As a boy he was introduced to hunting, which led to a life-long passion. After graduating high school, Krieghoff was drafted into the German army during World War II. Upon returning from the war, he joined his family in Heidenheim, West Germany, where his parents had relocated. Together with his father and key personnel from the former Krieghoff facilities, they began in 1950 a new manufacturing enterprise in the southern city of Ulm.
By 1970, his father retired from the business, and Heinz-Ulrich Krieghoff took over full responsibilities for the company. Under his guidance, the company expanded internationally, and a number of Krieghoff guns became world famous. The Model 32 and its successor the K-80 set new standards in competition clay target shooting. The Classic side-by-side double rifle earned worldwide trust and respect among hunters.
Over a decade ago, Krieghoff retired from active management duties but continued to take an avid interest in company matters until the end of his life. H. Krieghoff GmbH is being managed today by a seasoned team that includes his son Dieter and grandson Phil, representing the fourth and fifth generation in the company.
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