Custom Ruger No. 3 .222 Remington, Madole, Dugger, 25-inch octagon, Leupold, over 95 percent

Custom Ruger No. 3 .222 Remington. Delivered in 1991, serial 132-40122 has a 25-inch octagon barrel (straight taper to .620-inch at the muzzle, stepped front sight ramp with brass-beaded blade, sling swivel stud, stepped rib with custom straddle bases incorporating recoil shoulders, unknown maker or twist), custom lever and extension, custom tang safety (checkered face) and a custom trigger (tapered and scalloped). Metal work was done by John Madole as signed on the rib. STOCK: Shaped from AAA-walnut with bold, sinister figure, the sleek forearm is accented with a subtile Schnabel (ebony inlay) and wrapping flat point checkering. The butt has an ebony tang point, scalloped pancake with shadow line, trap door plate with widow’s peak, steel grip cap and an inletted sling swivel stud (screwless). The woodwork is thought to be that of James Corpe but is unsigned. ENGRAVING: The action is dressed with an outstanding pattern of bordered leafy vine diamonds and triangles. The theme rolls over the top, runs along the lever and reappears on the mounts, cap and trap. Michael Dubber’s signature rides the lower tang. OPTIC: A Leupold Vari-X II 2-7x (gloss, Duplex reticle) is positioned in Kimber of Oregon quick-detaching rings (one-inch, low). DIMENSIONS: Weight (inclusive of optic) is 8.8 pounds and the length-of-pull is 13.9 inches. CONDITION: The bore is superb. Trigger pull is sharp. Polished blue over the barrel stands at approximately 98 percent. Action finish (French Gray) is approximately 95 percent with minor spots of trace clouding. Wood exceeds 90 percent with some minor impressions and rubbing. Optic is clear with light rubbing on the lens coatings. The price is firm and layaway is available. $8,500 plus shipping.