WTS geared to protect crops

W Thomas and Sons (WTS), gunsmiths for over 70 years, will manufacture air rifles to ensure safety of crops and boost agricultural production in Sri Lanka.

WTS Proprietor, Royston Thomas said that the company is negotiating with the Ministry of Defence for approval. "We hope to launch manufacture of air rifles this year if approval is granted and save the drain on foreign exchange."

He said at present air rifles are imported from Europe, China and USA at exorbitant prices. "We hope to manufacture around 2,000 guns a year for the local and international markets." "WTS is equipped with the technology and expertise to manufacture modern air rifles on par with international standards. We could manufacture guns at a lesser cost with our craftsmanship and specialisation," he said.

Thomas said that the loss to the farming community due to pests such as monkeys, wild-boar, porcupines, rock squirrels, wild rats, bats and snakes was colossal.

"A proper mechanism is vital to protect crops and enhance production in the country," he said.

Paddy, coconut, rubber, tea and vegetable harvests are severely affected by pest attacks.

"The use of air rifles helps to keep pests away. The objective of the gun is to scare them. No harm is inflicted on them," Thomas said. "We are concerned about protecting the environment. We ensure that there is minimal impact on the environment," he said. WTS trains customers on the safe and effective use of guns. Thomas and Sons was founded by Wilfred Thomas, a gunsmith of South African descent. The company being in the arms and ammunition business for decades manufactures spares for weapons used by farmers.

Thomas said that the company has won international recognition for quality and performance of products. "This has enabled us to become the approved supplier to some of the most prestigious customers."

Today the company is the largest air gun and firearms manufacturer in Sri Lanka.

"The expansion of our main factory and our new installations will enable us to respond to customers' needs. We have well-tested and advanced production systems that combine craftsmanship and the latest technology. WTS's success is not only based on product excellence. As leaders we want to innovate and set a precedent with every product we manufacture," he said.

"The WTS innovation centre is one of our core strengths and has cemented our position in the air rifle industry. The company accounts for a large market share of air rifles which consists primarily of farmers," Thomas said. He said that WTS has obtained the ISO 9001 Certificate and ISO 9001 requirements are strictly followed in all stage of production and assembly.

LF