SPECIAL ITEMS

Al & Roger Biesen custom left hand Remington Model 700 .338 Winchester Magnum. Serial C6448884 is a highly refined Remington 700 LH barreled action. The 23-inch barrel (24 inches long including the integral brake) remains provisioned for open sights and wears a sling swivel stud. The action features polished rails, jeweled bolt body and follower, custom bolt shroud with three-position wing safety, custom steel bolt handle with four checkered teardrop panels, custom steel bottom metal with inside-the-guard release button and a wonderfully-tuned trigger. A Leupold VX-II 3-9×40 scope with Duplex reticle is secured in custom-contoured mounts. The stock is extraordinary. Beginning with a heavily-figured walnut blank no doubt selected as much for its strength, formalities include an ebony forend tip, 26 lines-per-inch borderless wrap checkering with accenting fleurs, slight Monte Carlo comb, scalloped cheek rest with shadow line, steel grip cap and an inletted sling swivel stud. All screws are timed. MARKINGS: “Al & Roger Biesen Gunmaker Spokane WN” is centered on the barrel. DIMENSIONS: Weight is 9.0 pounds with the optic. Length-of-pull is 13.5 inches. CONDITION: The bore is pristine. Metal finish (rust blue) exceeds 98 percent and wood finish/condition crowds 100 percent with but a single minor impression. The optic is clear. The price is firm and layaway is available. $7,500 plus shipping.

Special order group of four Cooper Arms rifles with the same serial number (99) consigned by the original owner. Chamberings are in different calibers and none have been fired since factory proof. COMMON FEATURES: Each rifle has a stainless steel barrel with a recessed crown, select claro walnut stock and bases. Each includes its original box with oversleeve, factory test target and papers. Three also include rings (1-inch, two sets double lever low, one set fixed high). SERIALS & CALIBERS: Serial format ends in the common “0099” with a differing prefix (the anchoring .22 LR has no prefix). 17-0099 is a Model 38 repeater in .17 CCM, G0099 a Model 21 single shot in .17 Mach IV, 0099 a Model 36 repeater in .22 LR and A0099 a Model 21 single shot in .223 Remington. DIMENSIONS: Barrel lengths are all 24 inches. Lengths-of-pull range from 13.8 to 14.2 inches. CONDITIONS: Unless noted, condition is essentially new as shipped both inside and out. Serial 17-0099 (.17 CCM) has a minor impression on stock left centered above the magazine. 100 units of virgin brass is also included. Serial G0099 (.17 Mach IV) has a hairline in the ebony forend tip (will be addressed by gunsmith upon request). Serial 0099 (.22 LR) has an imperfection (under the finish) at the forward left edge of the pistol grip. Serial A0099 (.223 Remington) has two tiny hairlines on the ebony forend tip (will be addressed by gunsmith upon request) and a ghosted suggestion of rubbing on the bolt handle/knob. The price is firm, layaway is available and the group will not be separated. $12,500 plus shipping.

Important Jerry Fisher custom Mauser 98 .358 Winchester. Made circa 1959 as a gift for Jerry’s brother-in-law and retained by the family until recently, it is an interesting rifle on multiple levels. ACTION: The military Mauser action was shortened .50-inch by John Fullington. The work is exceptional as it is nearly impossible to detect the weld line. Fisher smithed the bolt handle himself and added two bordered teardrop checkering panels. Bolt body, extractor and follower were jeweled. As was common at the time, the follower was not modified to permit the bolt to close over an empty magazine and the extractor was not reshaped to “snap over”. Capacity is three rounds, all feeding from the magazine. A carefully-tuned single stage Jaeger trigger was pressed into service. BARREL: An Apex 22-inch light sporter barrel (recessed crown, .565-inch muzzle diameter, six lands/grooves) was selected as it was one of the top brands of the era. STOCK: Fisher crafted the stock from a select blank of California English walnut in a pattern attributed to Monty Kennedy. The 22 lines-per-inch checkering pattern features complex borders, bold ribbons and outlined fleurs. A deeply figured tapering grip cap with pedestal provides an elegant contrast to the honey-blonde stock. A blind magazine, what Jerry called “concealed magazine job”, adds much to the sleek lines. OPTIC: A period Lyman All-American 2.5x (1-inch tube, straight crosswire reticle) is mounted in Redfield hardware. DIMENSIONS: Weight (with optic) is 7.2 pounds. Length-of-pull is 13.7 inches. CONDITION: The bore is outstanding, strong and bright. Feeding is positive although the follower spring seems weak. As recently refreshed and modified, the Bruce Farman rust blue metal finish is approximately 99 percent. Steve Heilman reprofiled the original high comb and cheek rest, replaced the aged butt plate with a Pachmayr recoil pad, matched the finish over the butt to the original and added a two-position wing safety. Overall, wood condition approaches 95 percent. PROVENANCE: Pictured and described in Monty Kennedy’s Checkering & Carving of Gunstocks (page 291) and supported by a letter from Celeste Fisher (Jerry’s widow), both included. A period leather sling with Jaeger swivels is also present. The price is firm and layaway is available. Trades for fine sporting rifles (particularly customs, rimfires and dangerous game calibers) and handguns will be respectfully considered. $7,500 plus shipping.

Hoffman Arms .375 H&H Magnum. Made in Cleveland circa 1923 and based on a Mauser Model 98 magnum-length action, rifle number 220 wears a 26-inch tapering sporter barrel (.635-inch muzzle diameter). Features include a banded front sight (button-release hood, stippled approach), banded sling swivel stud, quarter rib (three folding leafs engraved “100/200/300”, stippled flat), damascened bolt body and extractor, integral pop-up aperture sight (rear bridge, engraved “100”), shaped bolt handle, three-position safety, side mount base and a drop-box magazine. STOCK: Shaped from straight-grained walnut, accents include a horn forend tip, wrap checkering with partial Mullered borders, scalloped cheek rest with shadow line and a steel grip cap. The action beds against a metal bracket inletted at the lug and rides on a steel insert surrounding the rear attachment screw. ENGRAVING: Not suprisingly, engraving is unattributed but of the highest quality. Anchored by intricate scroll over the bottom metal and grip, the pattern reappears on the front ring with accents on the band as well as the front sight base. The trigger face is checkered. CAPACITY: Four plus one. Extractor “snaps over” rounds dropped in the chamber. SERIAL: Properly serialed on the underside of the action at the lug as 93644, the number appears 9x in total (action, bolt release, shroud, cocking piece, extractor, 2x trigger, magazine box, floorplate). MARKINGS: “HARMS” appears as a double strike on the lug. Stock is stamped “220”. Sling is stamped “Hoffman Arms Co., Cleveland O”. DIMENSIONS: Weight is 9.2 pounds. Length-of-pull is 14.0 inches. CONDITION: The bore is very good with strong rifling and mild frosting. The front sight bead is absent. The aperture sight spring requires adjustment to hold the sight solidly in position when presenting. Trigger pull is crisp. Feeding/extraction/ejection is positive. Metal finish has thinned and browned to approximately 75 percent. Wood is approximately 65 percent overall, with general impressions, thinning and blotching. The Pachmayr Old English recoil pad is a later addition. The price is firm and layaway is available. $9,500 plus shipping.

Holland & Holland .240 Apex takedown. Based on a much-refined Mauser 98 action, serial number 49 is a spectacular example of why Holland & Holland is regarded among the world’s finest riflemakers. The sleek little rifle features a 23-inch light sporter barrel with partially-banded front sight and sling eye, banded rear sight with one standing (marked 50/200) and one folding (marked 350) leaf, single-lever detachable mounting system, modified bolt handle, conventional two-position safety, trapdoor grip cap and horn butt plate. The safety lever can only partially rise when the scope is in position (remaining “on safe” with some tension although not locked and still allows free bolt operation). MARKINGS: Serial number (49) appears on front ring and guard. “Holland & Holland, 98 New Bond St., London” centers on the barrel, “Holland’s .240 Bore APEX Regd. Super Express Rifle” as well as “Nitro Proved” shows at the shank. “SANS-NOM TACOMA WA” appears under the wood on the front ring. ENGRAVING: .240 APEX CAL.” tops the front scope ring and “No. 49” the rear scope ring, “SAFE” appears in gold and “49” graces the guard. Both the takedown, guard and butt plate screws are timed and enhanced with scroll. OPTIC: A new Swarovski Z3 3-9×36 with plex reticle is included. DIMENSIONS: Weight (scoped) is 8.4 pounds. Length of pull is 14.15 inches. CONDITION: The bore is extraordinary – mirror bright and nearly pristine. Metal finish appears to be original and stands at approximately 70%, although most of the bottom metal coverage has thinned and silvered. Wood finish has thinned, with possible additions of oil. Checkering is worn and flattened. The stock itself bears the impressions of many days afield, in particular on the right side just forward of the butt plate. The barreled action has been glassed its full length. The horn butt plate is flaking and has some chipping and the right butt shows a teardrop area of finish that likely refreshed over a small knot. The scope is essentially new. The price is firm and a layaway program is available. Trades for fine sporting rifles (particularly customs, rimfires and dangerous game calibers) and handguns will be respectfully considered. $16,500 plus shipping.

Holland & Holland full stock .338 Winchester Magnum. Bearing 1994 London proofs, rifle number 4340 (5x: barrel underside, action at lug, guard, end cap, forward mount ring) has a 20-inch tapering medium sporter barrel with a ramp front sight (rotating/locking hood, stippled face, serrated flat, brass-beaded blade) and an island rear sight (stippled face, fixed express blade marked “50/100 yds”, folding express blade marked “200 yds”, gold sighting lines). The Mauser 98 action has a partially-stippled front ring, Holland & Holland quick release mounting system, straight bolt handle with checkered knob, twin two-position safeties (work in concert), drop box magazine and a Timney trigger. Barrel and action wear rust blue while the bottom metal, crossbolt and trap are finished in accented coin. Screws are timed. STOCK: Crafted in well-figured walnut, formalities include wrap checkering with a diamond accent and partial double borders, crossbolt, cheek rest with wrapping scallop and shadow line, trapdoor grip cap (with replacement front sight blade), initial plate (toe line, blank) and a Pachmayr Decelerator recoil pad. The action is bedded at the lug and an aluminum pillar surrounds the rear action screw for additional strength. Finish is hand-rubbed oil. ENGRAVING: The floorplate presents a detailed grizzly bust framed with leafy vine, the pattern continuing over the guard and reappearing on the front ring, bolt handle, cap, crossbolt trap and screwheads. The rear ring is branded. Engraving is unattributed and no import markings are present. CAPACITY: Four plus one, the fifth round dropping in and extractor “snapping over”. Feeding/extraction/ejection are positive and proper. DIMENSIONS: Weight (with optic) is 10.4 pounds. Sans is 8.8 pounds. Length-of-pull is 13.8 inches. CONDITION: The bore is superb. Mechanics are rock solid. Metal finishes are approximately 97 percent and wood at least 95 percent with a scattering of light impressions. OPTIC: The Swarovski Habicht Nova 1.5-6×42 (30mm steel tube, plex reticle) is tack sharp with strong lens coatings. The price is firm and layaway is available. Trades for fine sporting rifles (particularly customs, rimfires and dangerous game calibers) and handguns will be respectfully considered. $22,500 plus shipping.

W.J. Jeffery & Co. (London) 8×57 full stock sporter. Based on a much-refined Mauser Model 98 action, serial 3333 wears a 20-inch light sporter barrel (.630-inch muzzle diameter) with a banded front sight assembly (checkered ramp, brass-beaded blade), banded forestock attachment with sling loop and a banded rear sight (drift-adjustable for windage, one fixed leaf along with one folder). The untapped action features a scalloped bolt handle with underside serrations and a three-position flag safety (180-degree rotation). Stocked from a blank of exhibition Turkish walnut with a staggering riot of full-length figure, appointments include a horn forend tip, 24 lines-per-inch wrap checkering with mullered borders (full on the forestock and partial over the grip), flaring comb point, scalloped cheek rest, Lenard Brownell steel grip cap, sling loop on the toe line, leather-wrapped recoil pad and oil finish. The action rests both fore and aft on pillars. MARKINGS: The Jeffery 60 Queen Victoria Street address rides the barrel’s curve. Caliber and proof marks show on the right shank. Both “3760011” and “463373” appear on the right front ring. “4633” shows stamped into the wood (barrel channel). HISTORY: Unknown. DIMENSIONS: Weight is 6.6 pounds and the length-of-pull is 14.0 inches. CONDITION: The bore shows uniform light roughness and slight softening of the rifling, yet appears wholly viable. Mechanics are positive and act entirely proper in dry operation. At some point the subject of a careful finish restoration, rust blue stands at over 95 percent with tack-sharp markings. Wood is similar, with refreshed checkering. A trio of small scratches, addressed hairlines or a combination of same appear on the right butt just below the heel. The price is firm and layaway is available. Trades for fine sporting rifles (particularly customs, rimfires and dangerous game calibers) and handguns will be respectfully considered. $7,500 plus shipping.

Outstanding W.J. Jeffery .500 Jeffery. Crafted in 2007 by Roberts & Son (London), serial 39839 is based on a Johannsen Magnum Mauser Action (single square bridge). BARREL: Tapering to .825-inch at the muzzle, appointments include a banded front sight assembly (tapering base with stippled approach, serrated top, button-release hood, brass-beaded blade with lifting moon), banded sling swivel stud and a tapering quarter rib (stippled to serrated top, drift-adjustable, fixed express blade marked “50”, folding leafs marked “100” and “200”, checkered faces with gold sighting lines). The trap houses an additional front blade assembly. ACTION: Features include a fire-blued extractor/third lug/bolt release spring/follower, color case shroud, three-position safety, checkered bolt knob (two panels), drop-box bottom metal with inside-the-guard release and a tuned Recknagel trigger. STOCK: Drawn from a AAA-grade walnut blank and properly dimensioned as a stopping rifle, dressings include 24 lines-per-inch wrap checkering with partial Mullered borders, crossbolt, traditional cheek rest (scalloped, shadow line), trapdoor grip cap (color case), initial plate, inletted sling swivel stud and a recoil pad. Screws are timed and metal pillars aid integrity. A mercury recoil reduction tube has been positioned. DIMENSIONS: Weight is 11.2 pounds and the length-of-pull is 14.8 inches. ENGRAVING: The floor plate is dressed with bordering scroll. The serial (guard), caliber (trap) and safety “S” are highlighted in gold. Maker’s legend (barrel) and caliber (front ring) are also hand-engraved. London proofs appear at shank right. CONDITION: Consigned by the original owner, fired but 12 times and never hunted, the bore is predictably strong and bright. Metal finish is at least 99 percent with trace rubbing on the bolt knob. Wood is approximately 98 percent with trace handling and ear muff rubs. PROVENANCE: Copies of the order sheet and invoice are included. CASE: The original (unmarked) hard case is included. EXTRAS: A set of RCBS dies (3x), 50 Swift A-Frame 535-grain round nose softs, 54 Barnes 510-grain Banded Solids and 12 fired brass are included. The price is firm and layaway is available. $32,500 plus shipping.

Kimber of Oregon Model 82 Cub .22 LR. Likely a special order, serial number CUB92081 features an 18.5-inch barrel, dovetailed receiver, straight bolt handle, two-position disc safety, five-round magazine, AA-grade claro walnut stock (panel checkering, checkered butt plate, no sling swivel studs). DIMENSIONS: Weight is 6.0 pounds and length-of-pull is 13.3 inches. No box, papers, target or additional accessories are present. CONDITION: The bore is superb, strong and bright. Metal and wood finished are approximately 98 percent. The price is firm and layaway is available. $3,750 plus shipping.

Kimber of Oregon Model 82 SuperAmerica same-serialed trio in .22 LR, .22 Magnum and .22 Hornet. Serials SA69 (.22 LR), SAM69 (.22 Magnum) and SAH69 (.22 Hornet) each have 22-inch sporter barrels (hooded front ramps with white-beaded blades, quarter ribs with adjustable folding leaf sights). Common features include polished blue metal finishes, straight bolt handles, disc safeties, AAA-grade claro walnut stocks (24 lines-per-inch wrap checkering, scalloped cheek rests, steel grip caps, checkered steel butt plates with widow’s peaks and satin finishes). Each rifle is topped with a new Leupold VX-3i 1.5-5x20mm scope (matte finishes, Duplex reticles, .25-MOA clicks) in Talley steel rings. No boxes or papers. Weights are each approximately 7.8 pounds and lengths-of-pull are each approximately 13.6 inches. CONDITIONS: Bores are pristine. Metal finishes are each approximately 99 percent or better. Wood conditions are each approximately 98 percent or better with trace indications of handling. The price is firm, layaway is available and the set will not be separated. $15,000 plus shipping.

Kimber of Oregon Model 84 .223 Remington serial number 3. Features of this very special rifle include a 22-inch sporter barrel, dovetailed receiver, backswept bolt handle, rocker (disc) safety, claro walnut stock, ebony forend tip, panel checkering, steel grip cap, checkered steel butt plate with widow’s peak and sling swivel studs. Metal wears a polished blue finish, the stock satin. DIMENSIONS: Weight is 5.8 pounds and the length-of-pull is 13.85 inches. CONDITION: The bore appears new. Metal finish is approximately 99 percent with a portion of the bottom metal showing a uniform plum. Wood is approximately 99 percent as well. No box or papers. The price is firm and layaway is available. $5,000 plus shipping.

Jim Carmichel’s serial number 13 Kimber of Oregon Model 84 .223 Remington. Made in 1996 and presented to famed gunwriter and Kimber mentor Jim Carmichel by company owners Jack and Greg Warne, this special rifle has a 22-inch sporter barrel and dovetailed receiver. Stocked in select AA-grade claro walnut, appointments include a rosewood forend tip, wrap checkering, checkered steel butt plate with widow’s peack and a steel grip cap. PROVENANCE: A letter from Carmichel supports the presentation history and notes this was one of several Kimbers in his collection bearing this serial. DIMENSIONS: Weight is 6.0 pounds and the length-of-pull is 13.75 inches. CONDITION: The bore has moderate roughness attesting to its pedigree. Trigger pull is spectacular. Metal finish is approximately 85 percent with a few freckles. Wood is at least 95 percent. ACCURACY: The included factory test target shows a five-shot, 50-yard group of .180-inch. The original manual is present. The price is firm and layaway is available. $3,750 plus shipping.

Outstanding Kimber of Oregon Model 84 prototype .257 Kimber. Made circa 1985, serial number 257KX3 (Kimber Experimental Number 3) was originally field-tested by cartridge developer Mike Hill. It then passed to gunwriter Layne Simpson who owned it for some time. Simpson wrote a feature article detailing load development and ballistic performance (published in the May/June 1987 edition of Handloader Magazine) based on his most favorable experiences. Features include a 22-inch (1/10 twist) barrel, Model 84 action (repeater) and a claro walnut stock (panel checkering, steel grip cap, checkered steel butt plate, sling swivel studs). DIMENSIONS: Weight is 6.4 pounds and length-of-pull is 13.65 inches. CONDITION: The bore is bright with but a hint of roughness (possibly from machining). Mechanics are solid. Metal and wood finishes each exceed 95 percent. INCLUSIONS: Redding Custom .257 Kimber (two piece) die set, original letter from Layne Simpson discussing the origins and performance of the rifle/cartridge, the original factory two-piece cardboard box with correct end label and Simpson’s shipping label, instruction flyer, marketing card and true copy of Handloader Magazine with Simpson’s article are present. Kimber bases are attached. The price is firm and layaway is available. $12,500 plus shipping.

Outstanding special order battery of six Kimber of Oregon Model 89 Big Game Rifles with consecutive serial numbers. Made for a Kimber insider, chamberings are in different calibers and none have been fired since factory proof. SPECIAL FEATURES: All wear a matte finish (including barrels), have “bridged” receivers, ebony forend tips, borderless wrap checkering, scalloped cheek rests with shadow lines, inletted sling swivel studs and orange recoil pads. SERIALS & CALIBERS: Serialization format is a common C891000 followed by a consecutive letter. For whatever reason, an extra zero appears in the .270 serial number. C891000A – .300 Winchester Magnum, C891000B – 7mm Remington Magnum, C8901000C – .270 Winchester, C891000D – .375 H&H Magnum, C891000E – .30-06 Springfield, C891000F – .280 Remington. INCLUSIONS: Each rifle has its original box (most absent end labels) and oversleeve, manual and papers. Most also include the plastic logo manual/papers holder. The three standard calibers have cloth slips. Two rifles are stocked in English walnut and four in claro. RINGS: Each rifle includes a set of Kimber lever rings (1-inch medium). DIMENSIONS: Barrel lengths are 22 inches for the standards and 24 inches for the magnums. CONDITIONS: Unless noted, condition is essentially new as shipped both inside and out. Rifle A (.300 Win. Mag.) – wood is approximately 99 percent with a trace line of varnish lift on the forend tip and two minor spots of (packaging rub) finish impressions on stock left. Rifle B (7mm Rem. Mag.) – English walnut, metal has a ghosted trace rub near the muzzle. Rifle C (.270 Win.) – minor shrinkage of ebony forend tip, one tiny packaging rub in finish and light freckling on sling swivel studs. Rifle D (.375 H&H Mag.) – English walnut, faint discoloration spots on/near muzzle, one crazing line in forend tip and another small spot of varnish imperfection at tang. Rifle E (.30-06 Spfd.) – minor traces of packaging rubs on stock left. Rifle F (.280 Rem.) – small ghosted rub near muzzle and trace freckling on studs. The price is firm, layaway is available and the group will not be separated. $27,500 plus shipping.

Kimber of Oregon Model 89 SuperAmerica .257 Roberts. Serial 8901345 has a 22-inch barrel (light sporter contour) and a matte receiver (full-length claw extractor, three-position safety, integral mounts). WOOD: Stocked in AA-grade English walnut, accents include an ebony forend tip, 24 lines-per-inch wrap checkering, scalloped cheek rest with shadow line, steel grip cap, inletted sling swivel studs and a Kimber recoil pad. DIMENSIONS: Weight (with optic) is 8.6 pounds and the length-of-pull is 13.5 inches. CONDITION: The bore is superb. Mechanics are solid. Metal and wood finishes are each approximately 99 percent. No box or papers. OPTIC: A new Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10x40mm (Duplex reticle, matte finish, 1-inch tube, .25-MOA clicks) is secured in Talley rings. The price is firm and layaway is available. $6,750 plus shipping.

Kimber of Oregon Model 89 BGR 7×57 ( 7mm Mauser ). Serial 8901165 has a 22-inch light sporter barrel sans provisions for open sights. Features include a Model 89 action (controlled round feeding via a Mauser-type full length claw extractor, three position Model 70-type safety, steel bottom metal with inside-the-bow release) and a AA-grade walnut stock (ebony forend tip, panel checkering, steel grip cap, inletted sling swivel studs, logo recoil pad). DIMENSIONS: Weight is 7.2 pounds and the length-of-pull is 13.65 inches. CONDITION: Likely unfired since factory proof. The bore is exceptional, strong and bright. Mechanics are solid and trigger pull crisp. Metal and wood finishes tightly crowd 100 percent. No box or literature. Talley light weight ring mounts (30mm) are attached. The price is firm and layaway is available. $3,500 plus shipping.

Kimber of Oregon Model 89 SuperAmerica 7×57 Mauser. Serial 8901647 is an early BGR with a 22-inch light sporter barrel (polished blue finish). Features include a matte receiver with integral mounts, full-length claw extractor for true controlled feeding and extraction and a three-position safety. STOCK: The AA-grade claro blank is dressed with an ebony forend tip, 24 lines-per-inch wrap checkering, scalloped cheek rest with shadow line, steel grip cap, inletted sling swivel studs, Kimber recoil pad and a satin finish. DIMENSIONS: Weight is 8.6 pounds and the length-of-pull is 13.5 inches. CONDITION: The bore is pristine. Metal finish is approximately 99 percent. Wood is also approximately 99 percent with one minor impression on the comb line. No box or papers. OPTIC: A new Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10x40mm (Duplex reticle, matte finish, 1-inch tube, .25-MOA clicks) is secured in Talley rings. The price is firm and layaway is available. $6,000 plus shipping.

Kimber of Oregon Model 89 SuperAmerica 7×57 Mauser. A special early BGR with an all matte finish, serial 8901186 has a 22-inch light sporter barrel. Features include a full-length claw extractor, three-position safety and integral mounts. WOOD: Stocked in AA-grade claro, finishing touches include a rosewood forend tip, 24 lines-per-inch wrap checkering, scalloped cheek rest with shadow line, steel grip cap, inletted sling swivel studs and a Kimber recoil pad. DIMENSIONS: Weight (with optic) is 8.6 pounds and the length-of-pull is 13.4 inches. CONDITION: The bore is pristine. Metal and wood finishes are each approximately 99 percent. No box or papers. OPTIC: A new Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10x40mm (Duplex reticle, matte finish, 1-inch tube, .25-MOA clicks) is secured in Talley rings. The price is firm and layaway is available. $7,000 plus shipping.

Kimber of Oregon Model 89 BGR 7mm Remington Magnum. A unique and desirable Kimber, serial SC6000 was created circa 1988 and displayed at national hunting shows including the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation “Elk Camp”. The 23-inch barrel wears a polished blue finish and has a hooded ramp front sight (white bead) along with a quarter rib rear sight (with one standing and one folding express blades). The receiver sports a matte finish (bolt handle, shroud, bottom metal and grip cap are polished to match the barrel) and has integral (square bridge) mounts for Kimber rings, jeweled bolt body/extractor/follower and a checkered bolt knob (four teardrop panels). The stock is shaped from a AAA-grade English blank, wears a gloss finish and is accented with an ebony forend tip, wrap checkering, inletted (Howell-type) sling swivel studs, scalloped cheek rest with shadow line and a steel grip cap. ENGRAVING: Factory engraver J. Michaluk executed a superb bull elk in 24K gold relief on the floorplate, framing the game scene portion with gold wire and then bracketing with bordered leaf and vine. The pattern continues over the guard and the theme reappears on the grip cap. DIMENSIONS: Weight is 8.2 pounds and the length-of-pull is 13.5 inches. CONDITION: Almost certainly unfired outside proof and clearly never taken afield, the bore is pristine. Barrel blue is approximately 99 percent, with light rubbing over a portion of the muzzle. Action finish is essentially 100 percent. Wood is approximately 99 percent, with two insignificant impressions on the toe line. The recoil pad is hardening and darkening. No box is present but the correct manual and marketing questionnaire are included. The price is firm and layaway is available. $6,000 plus shipping.

Kimber of Oregon Model 89 Big Game Rifle in .300 Winchester Magnum. Completed circa 1987, serial BGRX 300-1 is an outstanding example of Clackamas’ best efforts. Features include a 24-inch tapered medium sporter barrel, square bridge action with recoil shoulders, three-position safety and timed screws. STOCK: Shaped from a AA-grade blank with strong crossing grain, appointments include an ebony forend tip, 26 lines-per-inch wrap checkering, scalloped ejection port shoulder, scalloped cheek rest with shadow line and inletted (Howell-type) sling swivel studs. ENGRAVING: Signed by factory engraver Larry Peters, a gold relief brown bear in a wilderness setting spans the bottom metal. A supporting pattern of fine scroll and intricate leafy vine borders the scene and extends over the guard, receiver, bolt handle, barrel shank, grip cap and rings. The bolt knob is checkered (four complex teardrops over a sunburst). RINGS: Engraved 1-inch medium double lever rings are attached. DIMENSIONS: Weight is 8.2 pounds and the length-of-pull is 13.3 inches. CONDITION: Likely unfired since factory proof and certainly never hunted. Metal (rust blue) and wood (satin) finishes are at least 99 percent with traces of handling. The ebony tip shows a trace of a stabalized hairline and what appear to be two ink lines under the finish are below the ejection port. No box or papers. SISTER RIFLE: BGRX 375-1, a similar .375 H&H Magnum in equally pristine condition, is available separately. The price is firm and layaway is available. $10,000 plus shipping.

Kimber of Oregon Model 89 Big Game Rifle “African” model in .375 H&H Magnum show gun. Completed circa 1987, serial BGRX 375-1 is an outstanding example of Clackamas’ best efforts and was no doubt created to showcase both factory engraving as well as the African model (the dangerous game version of the BGR, this rifle not being marked “African” or having an African serial prefix). Features include a 24-inch tapered heavy sporter barrel, banded front sight with conventional brass-beaded blade and flip-up moon sight, barrel-mounted sling swivel stud, quarter rib (hand-matted top and leafs, one fixed and one folder, each with gold sighting lines), magnum-length square bridge action with recoil shoulders (accepts Kimber rings), straight bolt handle, three-position Model 70-type safety, drop box magazine (6+1 capacity, extractor snaps over) trap door grip cap and timed screws. STOCK: Shaped from a straight-grain blank selected for strength, appointments include an ebony forend tip, 26 lines-per-inch wrap checkering, double crossbolts with ebony plugs, scalloped ejection port shoulder, open grip profile, traditional (pancake) scalloped cheek rest with shadow line, inletted (Howell-type) sling swivel stud and timed screws. ENGRAVING: The late Larry Peters, Kimber’s factory engraver, once remarked that he spent more time on this particular rifle than any other during the time of his service. The complex and detailed supporting pattern radiates outward from a gold relief maned lion that graces the floorplate. Bordered by arches of leafy vine, the supporting pattern covers the entirity of the bottom metal, receiver and grip cap. It then reappears on the band, quarter rib, barrel, shroud and bolt handle. “Kimber of Oregon. Inc., Clackamas, Oregon, U.S.A.” is engraved just forward of the rib. The bolt knob is hand-checkered (four complex teardrops over a sunburst). Peter’s signature is engraved on the tang (under the bolt shroud). RINGS: Engraved 1-inch medium double lever rings (not pictured) are included. DIMENSIONS: Weight is 10.0 pounds and the length-of-pull is 13.5 inches. CONDITION: Likely unfired since factory proof and certainly never hunted. Metal (rust blue) and wood (satin) finishes are at least 99 percent with traces of handling. The ivory moon sight bead is missing (will be replaced upon request). No box or papers. SISTER RIFLE: BGRX 300-1, a similar .300 Winchester Magnum in equally pristine condition, is available separately. The price is firm and layaway is available. $10,000 plus shipping.

The father and son team of Jack and Greg Warne founded Kimber, then properly Kimber of Oregon, in 1979. They had an inkling gun-savvy American shooters were pining for a fine .22 sporting rifle and that building them would make for a fair business. Saying they were proved right is an extraordinary understatement. The Warnes were also pretty good at listening to their rapidly growing customer base, and it wasn’t long before they began offering a mini-Mauser christened the Model 84. Chambered in .223-length cartridges, orders rolled in and the Warnes struggled to meet demand. They also kept listening. Came the Model 89 BGR – the Model 89 Big Game Rifle to keep things formal. To the manner born, it combined the best features of the great Mauser 98 and Winchester’s superb pre-64 Model 70 – all in a sleek American sporter stock vetted by the sharpest eyes in riflery of the time. Swamped with orders, they decided to expand the company via a private stock offering that would raise enough scratch to make it happen. Putting pen to paper, the Warnes determined how much was required and what they could accept without giving up control of their company. The individual ante was set at $50,000, and that takers would be presented with a very special Founder’s Edition rifle wrapped in their stock certificate. Fourteen shareholder positions were offered. The money rolled in, but a combination of factors saw the company fall into bankruptcy several years later. According to records kept by factory engraver Larry Peters, only seven of the promised 14 Founder’s Edition rifles were ever completed. This rifle is one of them. Wearing a polished blue finish, it is stocked in fine English walnut appointed with an ebony forend tip, wrap-around checkering, Howell-type inletted sling swivel studs and the beaded cheekpiece found on Kimber’s top-end SuperAmerica model of that period. Elegantly engraved by Mr. Peters, the highlight is a roaring grizzly bust set in a French gray, gold-encircled background on the floor plate that incorporates the legend “Kimber Big Game Rifle.” In addition, scroll accents grace the floorplate, trigger guard, barrel shank, receiver and double lever rings (1-inch medium). “Founders Edition 1 of 14” is boldly engraved along the top of the 24-inch barrel. The special serial number “FEG2”, engraved screw heads, checkered bolt knob and gold signatures of the Warnes complete the presentation. DIMENSIONS: Weight is 8.6 pounds and the length-of-pull over the Kimber recoil pad is 13.65 inches. CONDITION: Almost certainly unfired since factory proof, the bore is pristine. Metal finish is approximately 97 percent, with a modest distribution of micro-freckles scattered along the barrel and grip cap. Wood is at least 98 percent with a traces of handling and tiny spots of what is likely glue used to attach the recoil pad. No box or papers are present. The price is firm and layaway is available. $10,000 plus shipping.

Kimber of Oregon Model 89 Big Game Rifle Founder’s Edition .375 H&H Magnum. BACKGROUND: During 1987, Kimber of Oregon owner’s Jack and Greg Warne elected to expand from making only rimfire (Model 82) and short-action centerfire (Model 84) rifles. In order to accomplish this an injection of funding was required, so a private placement stock offering was established. The initial outline was to offer at least $1.5M of stock with a minimum investment of $50K per individual. Those investing would be deemed “Founders” and part of their consideration was a Founder’s Edition Model 89 Big Game Rifle in a caliber of their choosing. While the initial edition size was intended to be 14 rifles, only eight were ever produced (according to detailed records kept by Kimber factory engraver, the late Larry Peters). The subject rifle is the second to be created (as designated by its serial number – FE-2). DESCRIPTION: Wearing a 24-inch heavy sporter barrel sans provisions for open sights, the rifle adopts a general SuperAmerica configuration. The metal wears a polished blue finish and the action the standard capacity (3+1, the full-length claw extractor easily snapping over a hand-fed round). Mounts for Kimber rings are integral (square bridged) with the receiver. The safety is a three-position (similar to a Winchester Model 70). The action, of course, is a true controlled-round feeding design – a hybrid of the Mauser Model 98 and the Winchester pre-64 Model 70. STOCK: Crafted from a specially-selected AAA-grade English walnut blank accented with an ebony forend tip and 24 lines-per-inch multi-point wrap checkering, appointments include recessed (Howell-type) sling swivel studs, scalloped cheek rest with shadow line, steel grip cap and a satin finish. ENGRAVING: Larry Peters centered the bust of a roaring grizzly in a circular French gray field, bordered it with gold wire and accented the balance of the bottom metal with bordered and shaded vine. The pattern continues over the receiver and the double lever rings (1-inch medium). The bolt knob is hand-checkered with four panels plus a starburst and the action screws have received similar attention. Signatures of both Jack Warne and Greg Warne are reproduced on gold on either side of the chamber, “Kimber Big Game Rifle” circles the grizzly bust and “Founders Edition, 1 of 14” boldy rides the barrel. Peter’s signature is engraved on the tang (under the shroud). DIMENSIONS: Weight is 8.6 pounds and the length-of-pull is 13.5 inches. CONDITION: Unfired and nearly pristine with only minor indications of careful handling, the exception being cracking and darkening on the right side of the recoil pad. INCLUSIONS: The original factory hard case (designated by the affixed Kimber label), box end label (separate from the case), and papers are present. The price is firm and layaway is available. $10,000 plus shipping.

Kimber of Oregon Model 89 African .416 Rigby Magnum. Serial AF0130 has a 24-inch heavy sporter barrel (.695-inch muzzle diameter, banded front sight with hooded ramp and brass-beaded blade with pop-up moon sight, banded sling swivel stud and a quarter rib with both fixed and folding express blades). Features include matte metal finish, full-length claw extractor for true controlled-round feeding and extraction, three-position safety, straight bolt handle, drop-box magazine and integral mounts with recoil shoulders. WOOD: Stocked from impressive and properly-grained blank of AA-grade English, appointments include an ebony forend tip, 24 lines-per-inch wrap checkering, double crossbolts with ebony plugs, traditional (pancake) cheek rest with a scalloped transition and shadow line, trapdoor grip cap, inletted sling swivel stud and a Kimber recoil pad. CAPACITY: Four plus one. The extractor “snaps over” the top round as it is chambered. Feeding/extraction/ejection are flawless. DIMENSIONS: Weight (with optic) is 9.8 pounds and the length-of-pull is 14.0 inches. CONDITION: The bore is pristine. Mechanics are solid. Metal finish is approximately 97 percent with minute points of rubbing along the barrel. Wood is also approximately 97 percent with minor impressions. No box or papers. OPTIC: A new Leupold VX-3i 1.5-5x20mm (Duplex reticle, matte finish, 1-inch tube, .25-MOA clicks) is secured in Talley detachable rings with niter blued lever screws. The price is firm and layaway is available. $8,500 plus shipping.

Little Sharps Rifle Manufacturing Company (Big Sandy, Montana) .22 Magnum. Made by Ron Otto and engraved by Aaron Pursley, serial number 24 has a 24.5-inch heavy octagon barrel (straight taper, 1 inch across the flats) with a blade front sight, flip-up (elevator) rear sight and a polished blue finish. The scaled action wears vivid color case and the hammer spur sports fine checkering. The AA-grade walnut stock is accented with a silver forend cap, polished blue butt plate (smooth, widow’s peak) and finished in hand-rubbed oil. No box or papers. ENGRAVING: The action is appointed with flowing scroll to approximately 70 percent coverage. Gold wire bordering integrated with stars wraps the action and reappears at both muzzle and shank. Both serial number and initials (GW) also appear in gold. Maker’s and engraver’s names ride the lower tang. DIMENSIONS: Weight is 8.0 pounds and the length-of-pull is 13.5 inches. CONDITION: The bore is pristine. Metal finish is approximately 99 percent with trace suggestions of handling. Wood is also approximately 99 percent with a few faint impressions. The price is firm and layaway is available. $10,000 plus shipping.

Makinson & Son .500 Nitro Express double rifle. Created in the mid-to-late 1980s to showcase the extraordinary level of craftsmanship a client could expect from his fledgling Michigan/Canadian firm, Brit refugee Nick Makinson was determined to build bespoke firearms which equaled or bested those from the storied houses of London. Thirty or so Makinson firearms is generally accepted as the number produced, with some being double rifles. This particular example, serial 500P1, served as the functioning prototype. Based on a Westley Richards drop lock action with a full-length lower tang, it wears 24-inch barrels (.745-inch muzzle diameters, brass-beaded blade front sight, flip-up moon bead) highlighted by a quarter rib (hand-filed, fixed and folding express blades with gold sighting lines). Features include ejectors, manual tang safety and a manual trigger (selector under the bow). WOOD: Stocked in exhibition grade Turkish walnut with ideal directional grain, formalities include 26 lines-per-inch wrap checkering with partially Mullered borders, ebony-encircled latch, scalloped pancake with shadow line, Pachmayr Decelerator recoil pad and an oil finish. ENGRAVING: Highlighted by a glowering black rhino in relief on the drop plate and a trio of scalloped ribbons flaring around the breech, wheels of intricate scroll support over the balance of the action and reappear on the latch, lever, guard and tangs to full coverage. Although worthy of brag, the work is sadly unsigned. DIMENSIONS: Weight is 11.4 pounds. Length-of-pull is 14.9 inches, drops are 1.4 and 1.8 inches, and cast off is approximately .40-inch. CONDITION: The bores and chambers are strong and bright. Barrels are on face and the opening lever rests slightly right of center. Ejectors kick stout and the trigger pulls smooth. Barrel finish (rust blue) is approximately 95 percent with minor indications of handling and one small area of roughness on barrel left at the rear sight. Receiver finish is approximately 95 percent with faint tarnish on the lower tang and cap. Tang screw slots are lightly buggered. Wood is approximately 97 percent. Regulation specifics are unknown. The price is firm and layaway is available. $32,500 plus shipping.

Marlin Model 39A DL .22 LR. Serial U13102 has a 24-inch barrel (hooded front sight with brass-beaded blade, full-length magazine tube, elevation-adjustable front sight). Features include a gold trigger and a heavily-figured walnut stock (oil finish, bordered checkering, squirrel carving, black grip cap, logo butt plate, sling loops). DIMENSIONS: Weight is 6.4 pounds and the length-of-pull is 13.2 inches. CONDITION: The Micro-Groove bore is superb. Mechanics are solid. Metal and wood finishes are each approximately 95 percent. No box or papers. The price is firm and layaway is available. $3,000 plus shipping.

Marlin 39AWL .22 LR with an incredible factory error. Produced among a limited edition of 2000 rifles created to raise funds for wildlife conservation, serial number WL000766 left the Marlin factory with an unmarked barrel (other than the “JM” proof). After the rifle was sold and the error discovered, a second barrel with correct markings – other than “JM” as it was not was not factory installed – was obtained. Features include an unmarked 24-inch half-octagon-to-round barrel, etched receiver with gold embellishments and upgraded walnut with double-bordered checkering. DIMENSIONS: Weight is 5.8 pounds and the length-of-pull is 13.25 inches. CONDITION: New and unfired with traces of handling. DISPLAY HISTORY: Displayed at the 2019 Marlin Firearms Collectors Association Annual Meeting, it won a Special Judges Award. INCLUSIONS: Original AWL promotional poster, manual, optic base, hammer extension, copy of “The Marlin Collector” magazine referencing the award, large awards presentation plaque, “Danger Ahead” framed print given in recognition of the award, paperwork from show display and a box with the correct end label. Digital copies of the display description and NSSF background letter are also available (hard copies not present). The price is firm and layaway is available. $5,000 plus shipping.

Marlin Model 39 .22 LR. Marked “SECOND” on the barrel (there is also a “-” following “39” on the barrel but no “A”), serial G16616 has a 24-inch barrel (hooded brass-beaded blade front sight, elevation-adjustable rear sight). DIMENSIONS: Weight is 6.8 pounds and length-of-pull is 13.3 inches. CONDITION: The bore is superb. Metal finish is approximately 95 percent. Receiver left shows several small pits under the finish. Action operation is smooth but thumb-cocking the hammer reveals a mild roughness. Wood is approximately 85 percent with some finish loss. No box or papers. The price is firm and layaway is available. $2,500 plus shipping.

Mauser 8×57 in unusual carbine configuration. Serial number 79076 has a standard-length action and features a 20-inch barrel with three-leaf rear sight (one fixed and two folders) mounted on boss, stippled front ring, hinged floorplate with lever and double set triggers. The stock is unusually long to the fore, with double Schnabels, sling loops, wrap-around bordered checkering, steel grip cap, cheekpiece and horn butt. MARKINGS: Serial appears on barrel, receiver, bolt handle, extractor, shroud, safety and cocking piece. Others include “ON” on barrel left, Waffenfabrik Mauser-CBerndorf A/N” on wall, “OB” on bolt handle. “Germany” is stamped into the right side of the butt. DIMENSIONS: Weight is 6.4 pounds and length-of-pull from the front trigger is 14.25 inches. CONDITION: Bore is bright, with strong rifling. Set triggers need adjustment as it can slam fire during dry function testing with operated with authority. Rear folding leaf is slightly loose when placed in the raised position. Right side of rear ring tapped for receiver sight and now plugged. Markings are sharp. Barrel and action blue are approximately 80 percent. Bottom metal blue is about 40 percent, with general thinning and browning. Wood finish appears to have been refreshed at some point. Checkering shows light wear and the stock itself shows a general pattern of impressions. Butt plate has scattered worm holes and a chip at the toe. The price is firm and layaway is available. $3,500 plus shipping.

Left hand David Miller & Curt Crum custom 6mm Remington. Made for Outdoor Life Magazine’s Dave Petzal and based on a much-refined and modified Remington Model 700 short action, serial A6304132 is spectacular in every respect. Important features include a sleek 23-inch barrel  (.525 muzzle diameter), large redundant (AR-15 type) extractor, jeweled bolt body, custom bolt shroud with two-position wing safety, custom bolt handle with three-panel checkered knob, recontoured tang and a checkered steel grip cap. A Leupold Vari-X III 2.5-8x with Duplex reticle is secured in a contoured Miller mount. Metal finish is an ideal rust blue. STOCK: Painstakingly shaped and detailed from an elegant English walnut blank with strong-running figure, appointments include 26 lines-per-inch borderless wrap checkering highlighted by elegant fleurs, sculped darts and scalloped cheek rest with shadow line. The finish is an elegant satin hand-rubbed oil. PROVENANCE: The David Miller legend appears on the barrel and Curt Crum’s stamping rides the inside of the barrel channel. A full page photograph of this rifle captioned as being made for Dave Petzal appears on page 97 of Tom Turpin’s Mastery of Wood & Metal, David Miller Co. book. The included copy is inscribed by the author to the consignor and page 97 is signed by both Miller and Crum. DIMENSIONS: Weight is 8.4 pounds (scoped) and length-of-pull is 13.75 inches. CONDITION: The bore is bright and shiny. Metal finish is approximately 98 percent. Wood approaches 99 percent, with but one tiny impression on the bottom of the stock near the forward attach screw. The price is firm and layaway is available. Trades for fine sporting rifles (particularly customs, rimfires and dangerous game calibers) and handguns will be respectfully considered. $15,000 plus shipping.

Custom Remington Model 700 .308 Winchester presented to Lones Wigger upon winning the 1976 National High Power Silhouette Championship. Consigned by a fellow competitor as purchased directly from Wigger, serial A6224111 custom features include a 24-inch barrel by Roy Dunlap (tapering to .750-inch muzzle diameter, recessed crown), a Hart trigger and a second thumbhole stock for standing position. Both stocks have glass bedding over the full length of the action. IMPORTANT: There is no safety and the trigger breaks at nothing more than an angel’s whisper. DIMENSIONS: Weight (with presentation stock and optic) is 10.0 pounds and length-of-pull (presentation stock) is 13.15 inches. CONDITION: The bore is strong and bright. Barrel finish (polished blue) is approximately 80 percent with spots of silvering or rubbed to bare. The muzzle and crown area is thinned and tarnished. Action finish is approximately 85 percent. Stocks are each approximately 80 percent. OPTIC: A Leupold VX-III 6.5-20×40 EFR Air Rifle scope (dot reticle, .25 MOA clicks, adjustable objective) is seated in Leupold mounts. Optics are clear with cleaning rubs on lens coatings. LONES WIGGER: Widely regarded as the finest competitive rifle shooter to have ever taken aim for the United States, Lones Wigger was a member of four Olympic Teams, winning both Gold and Silver in 1964 and a second Gold in 1972. He also set 13 individual world records and shared another 16 with team members. Over his storied career, Wigger won 91 National Championships across several events. He shot for 20 major American teams on the world stage, including four Olympic Teams, seven World Championships, five Pan-American Games and four Championship of the Americas with a records of 67 team and 44 individual medals over his career. Wigger was also a member of 12 Council Internatinale Sport du Militarie (CISM) military teams, winning 34 CISM medals. He also proudly serviced with the United States Army Marksmanship Unit and completed in international matches representing the United States for 23 years. Finally, Lones Wigger was inducted into the U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame in June, 2008 – the only shooter in history to have received this honor. The price is firm and layaway is available. $2,500 plus shipping.

Rigby .450 Nitro Express. Made in 1906 for the Honorable Captain Guy Wilson, serial number 17311 is a Class C double rifle wearing 28-inch barrels with a beaded blade front sight, filed rib, dovetailed rear leafs (one fixed express and three folders left green) and ejectors. Additional features include a barrel-mounted sling loop (1-inch), mechanical safety, bushed strikers, long forend (11 inches), drop points, steel grip cap, sling button and an initial plate (blank). ENGRAVING: The action is graced with bordered vine to 25 percent, the pattern continuing over the tangs, guard, grip cap and screws. “SAFE” appears in gold on the upper tang. DIMENSIONS: Weight is 11.2 pounds. Length-of-pull is 14.7 inches over the pad, drops are 1.6 and 2.4 inches, and cast off is approximately .20-inch. CONDITION: The bores are strong and bright. Chambers are smooth. Barrels are full on face and the opening lever rests at center. Trigger pulls, safety, ejectors and the forend latch operate positively and properly. Barrel finish appears to be a vintage refresh (markings have softened although the rib marking remains sharp), the blue thinning to approximately 50 percent with rubs and a few scattered dings in evidence. The action finish appears original with colors given over to silver. Engraving remains sharp. The guard appears to have refreshed blue with a hint of softening to its engraving. Wood is solid. Checkering is worn and a general distribution of impressions and scratches are present. The pad has hardened considerably and bulged at the ends. ACCURACY: Fired by the consignor with Hornady 480-grain DGX bullets, an included target shows a pair of two-shot, 100-yard groups with an extreme spread of 4.21 inches and superb regulation. AMMUNITION: Five rounds of Kynoch 480-grain softs, 24 rounds of Kynoch 480-grain solids, 24 rounds of Hornady 480-grain DGX and 75 fired cases are included. CASE: A vintage leather takedown case with new interior, sling, oil bottle and decocking block is present. The price is firm and layaway is available. Trades for fine sporting rifles (particularly customs, rimfires and dangerous game calibers) and handguns will be respectfully considered. $37,500 plus shipping.

Van Horn custom .458 Lott. Based on a much-refined 1917 Enfield with serial number WV375, it wears a 22-inch tapering barrel (.805-inch muzzle diameter, ramp front sight assembly with brass-beaded blade, four port Mag-Na-Port, sling swivel stud, island express with fixed blade). Barrel underside is marked “458 14”, “B3160”, “B.J.O.” and “TJ” with the J presented “lazy” (on its side). Features include a much-refined action with custom base for a red dot sight on the front ring, custom bolt handle, custom bottom metal with inside-the-bow release and a tuned custom trigger. Finish is an outstanding rust blue. STOCK: Properly shaped for its intended purpose from a AAA-grade blank, dressings include a rosewood forend tip, exceptional 26 lines-per-inch wrap checkering, steel crossbolt with engraved caps, soft Monte Carlo comb with shadow-lined scalloped cheek rest, toe line stud and a thin Pachmayr pad. Bedding extends from the lug to the forend tip. CAPACITY: Four plus one. Feeding is smooth, extraction/ejection are positive and the bolt closes smoothly over “single fed” rounds. DIMENSIONS: Weight is 9.8 pounds and the length-of-pull is 13.45 inches (13.0 inches to wood line). CONDITION: The bore is outstanding. Metal finish is approximately 99 percent. Rear bridge drilled tapped with third filled hole. Wood is approximately 97 percent with a scattering of small impressions. The price is firm and layaway is available. $6,500 plus shipping.

Van Horn custom .460 Weatherby Magnum (caliber verified). Serial PH505 is based on a refined 1917 Enfield. Features include an 18-inch barrel (20 inches with brake, front sight with folding hood and brass-beaded blade, sling swivel stud, island express rear sight, custom base for red dot sight). Features include a stippled front ring, custom bolt knob, custom bottom metal with inside-the-bow release and a tuned custom trigger. Metal finish appears to be CeraKote. STOCK: The AAA English walnut stock is of substantial profile with a rosewood forend tip, 26 lines-per-inch wrap checkering accented with fleurs, double crossbolts, soft Monte Carlo comb with shadow-lined scalloped cheek rest, toe line stud and a Pachmayr recoil pad. The barrel is fitted with second recoil lug and bedding its full length. DIMENSIONS: Weight is 10.2 pounds and the length-of-pull is 13.9 inches. CONDITION: As one would expect, the bore is outstanding. Metal finish is at least 99 percent. Wood is approximately 98 percent with occasional minor indications of handling. The Burris FastFire II optic works properly. The price is firm and layaway is available. $10,000 plus shipping.

Weatherby Mark V factory custom .300 Weatherby Magnum. Made in 1967 by special order for a satisfied safari client and presented to renowned African professional hunter Harry Selby, serial number P134412 stands tall among the most important and desirable West German Weatherby rifles ever created. Basic features include a 24-inch barrel, jeweled bolt body, two-panel checkered bolt knob, rosewood forend tip and pistol grip cap with double spacers, intricate skip-line checkering pattern, Buehler mounts and a Weatherby 2-7x scope with fine crosshair reticle. CONFIGURATION: The rifle has a right hand bolt and a left hand (right side) cheek rest, as was Selby’s preference. ENGRAVING: The floorplate presents initials “JHS” (for John Henry Selby – “Harry” was his nickname) in gold relief. The entirety of the action as well as the Buehler mounts wear full-coverage scroll intertwined with flowing grasses, the pattern continuing along the top of the barrel to the middle of the forend tip. PROVENANCE: Dated 2nd August, 2017, a letter with Mr. Selby’s original signature recounts his time with the rifle. MARKINGS: In addition to the standard Weatherby markings, a small “Griffin & Howe, Andover NJ” rides the bottom of the barrel just forward of the forend tip and “181529” shows on the bottom of the trigger guard, these both required as a condition of the recent repatriation from Africa. DIMENSIONS: Weight, with scope, is 8.8 pounds and the length-of-pull is 13.5 inches. CONDITION: The bore is strong and bright. Engraving is flawless. The barrel blue is approximately 95 percent, with some thinning on the muzzle face and a highlight line along the top between the muzzle and forend tip (no doubt from riding the rack in a safari truck). One small freckle appears on the right side of the barrel a few inches aft of the muzzle. The action finish is 100 percent, with slight thinning on the bolt knob and some thinning following the edges of the floorplate. Even the gold plate on the trigger rates near 95 percent. The stock is also approximately 95 percent overall. The varnish has some light crazing and checkering is tack sharp. One minor impression appears on the left side of the barrel channel, some faint impressions show on the grip cap and along the toe line, and one small area of missing varnish tops the Monte Carlo hump. The scope is optically clear, with lenses and coatings in fine condition. The rubber “bumper” ring on the ocular housing has cracked from pressure of the included covers. HARRY SELBY (1925-2018) is one of the most famous and respected professional hunters who ever swung a rifle onto his shoulder and took up the track. By greatest fortune, he gained the both the respect and admiration of Robert Ruark, becoming internationally famous through Ruark’s writings. Selby served as the inspiration for Ruark’s hero Peter McKenzie in Something of Value and Ruark dedicated what many believe is the finest book ever written about safari life, Horn of the Hunter, to Selby. On a personal level, Ruark was honored to become Godfather to Harry’s son, Mark Selby. The price is firm and layaway is available. Trades for fine sporting rifles (particularly customs, rimfires and dangerous game calibers) and handguns will be respectfully considered. $30,000 plus shipping.

Winchester Custom Shop Model 70 Stainless Featherweight .270 Winchester prototype with detachable box magazine. One of only two rifles every made in this configuration, serial number G2025647 is supported by solid documentation and is certainly among the most unique and desirable Model 70 rifles ever presented to the market. Until now, both have remained in the collections of former Winchester employees. Special features include select walnut, single crossbolt, hand-honed action and hand-lapped barrel, jeweled bolt body, Custom Shop proof marking and “stainless colored one piece trigger guard”. All dimensions appear to be standard. CONDITION: The rifle is unfired since proof and remains in virtually new condition with only slight indications of handling and storage. DOCUMENTATION: Letter signed by Don Pind, Winchester Custom Shop Manager, dated February 8, 1993, detailing features and rarity. INCLUSIONS:Two original detachable magazines and a factory cardboard box with hand-written (on tape) model description. The price is firm and a layaway program is available. $12,500 plus shipping.

Absent anything short of absolute certainty these rifles stand among the world’s most important and valuable sporting arms. That they are paired presents an unequaled acquisition opportunity. Both have a captivating history.

According to Roger Rule’s The Rifleman’s Rifle, serial number 1 was marked on January 20, 1936. As Winchester records are unavailable so far as supporting a proper factory letter is concerned, the actual shipping date and destination are unknown. As detailed in Winchester Model 70 No. 1, a feature article appearing in the June, 1990 issue of American Rifleman (copy included), the current owner’s uncle purchased the rifle from a hardware store in Durango, Colorado during the 1937 hunting season. Whether new or used when the sale was wrung, the rifle was already fitted with a Lyman receiver sight. Upon returning from the hunting trip, the owner had the rifle drilled and tapped in order to install a 10x Fecker scope, then hunted with it for the next forty years. In 1977, after using it over the course of several deer seasons, the current owner formally acquired the rifle – it still wearing the Fecker and with the Lyman sight in tow. Staggeringly, another ten years passed before a chance showing resulted in a dealer getting the vapors and blurting out a surprisingly high offer. This sparked a curiosity which lead to the realization that his plain old Model 70 was the first of its kind. With significant reservation, the rifle was retired from hunting after 50 years of faithful and flawless service.

Published in 1982 by Alliance Books, The Rifleman’s Rifle did much to expand and solidify collector interest in Winchester pre-64 Model 70 rifles. Quite naturally, the owner of the number 1 rifle acquired a copy as part of his research. Page 193 carried a photo of serial number 2 from Rule’s collection, and page 52 showed a photo of a letter from Richard Pelton, Winchester’s Director of Marketing dated March 6, 1980. Written to Mrs. Ethel M. Lied, the letter mentions the January 20, 1936 marking date for the number 1 rifle and also states that assembly of Model 70 rifles did not begin until 1937. Pointedly, the letter references Mrs. Lied’s inquiries as to the value of her rifle – serial number 2. No doubt, ownership of the number 2 rifle passed to Roger Rule at approximately this time. At some point thereafter, the number 2 rifle was presented for sale at a major gun show attended by the owner of rifle number 1. As things tend to do, one lead to another and ownership transferred.

To no surprise, both rifles are of standard configuration and chambered in .30-06 Springfield.

Serial number 1 condition: The bore remains smooth, strong and viable. Drilling/tapping for scope mounting includes 2x on the barrel just forward of the rear sight boss and 2x on the front ring. The rear sight is absent and the dovetail is protected with a “plug”. Overall metal finish is approximately 65 percent, as expected after 50 years of use in the hunting fields. Wood integrity is strong (absent cracks or chips). Wood finish condition is approximately 60 percent overall. Checkering is smoothing. Finish is thinning or absent in places and a general distribution of field impressions and scratches are in evidence. The bolt body is faintly marked “1” in electric pencil (or similar).  The Fecker scope is viable and remains optically clear, with surface finish of approximately 70 percent.

Serial number 2 condition: The bore remains smooth, strong and viable. Drilling and tapping for scope mounting includes 2x on the front ring. Overall metal finish is approximately 75 percent. Wood integrity is strong (absent cracks or chips). Wood finish condition is approximately 70 percent overall. Checkering is strong. A general distribution of field impressions and scratches are in evidence. The bolt body is faintly marked “2” in electric pencil (or similar).

Inclusions: In addition to a complete bound set of American Rifleman magazines from 1990 with the referenced article, a personalized letter detailing the known history and transfer details of the rifles will be provided by the owner.

An installment sale may be arranged following a suitable, non-refundable deposit. The pair will not be separated. All transportation arrangements and associated costs are the responsibility of the purchaser. The price is firm at $1,750,000.