R.G. Owen custom Model 98 Mauser in 7mm Mauser (7×57). A true museum-quality custom rifle in every respect, serial number 756 features a 23-inch Krupp Fluid Steel barrel with a banded front sight (serrated rib, brass-beaded blade, flip-up night bead and quick release knurled hood), banded sling attachment, integral quarter rib with serrations and three matted folding sight leafs (marked 100/200/300, dovetailed for drift windage adjustment). The commercial single square bridge Mauser action (matching numbers on trigger, extractor, bolt release, safety, bolt handle and cocking piece) has a matted front ring, straight bolt handle with elegant contour, two-panel teardrop checkering on the bolt knob, Lyman aperture rear sight and custom bottom metal with an inside-the-bow floorplate release button. The masterwork stock was carefully shaped from an outstanding piece of red-hewn walnut with rich primary grain structure perfectly accented with crossing grain running its full length. A horn (possibly ebony) forend tip is seamlessly integrated. Checkering is a 26 lines-per-inch full wrap pattern with double borders. A secondary attachment point dovetailed into the underside of the barrel is externally marked by an attractive bushing with tapering extension which in turn is secured by a nitre blued screw. The comb darts and scalloped pancake cheek rest with shadow line are as fine as ever created. Both the steel grip cap and steel widow’s peak butt plate have trap doors, and plate itself is textured and includes a touch of engraving at the peak and over the timed screws. The stock rests on two steel pillars. DIMENSIONS: Weight is 8.4 pounds, length-of-pull is 13.5 inches and the balance point is approximately .80-inch behind the forward attaching screw. MARKINGS: “Cal. 7mm. R. G. Owen, Sauquoit N.Y. No. 756” rides the center of the barrel at the forend tip. “756” is also presented on the left side of the receiver. The initial plate inletted into the toe line is blank. Internally, barrel/action/stock are both stamped “Made in Germany”. Likewise, the “H anchor K” appears several times. The original serial number of 106647, Mauser logo, and a script “WK” show as well. CONDITION: The bore is strong and bright, with sharp rifling. Metal finish is approximately 97 percent overall. The stock is approximately 95 percent, owing to a bit of finish flaking on the forend tip, a few minor blemishes and a splice at the toe (blended so well it is easy to overlook).