Reference Thread - Poulins and James Julia Auctions (March 7-11, 2008)

I participated in the Poulin's Auction (click here) and James Julia Auction (click here) yesterday and today, which was primarily for many items from the late Bruce Stern collection.

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From their web site:

12,700,000!!! This is the largest grossing firearms auction ever held in the world which exceeds the previous record of $11,235,000 set by this auction house last Fall which exceeded the earlier record of $9,200,000 set by James D. Julia, Inc. There were approx. 1270 lots sold and the final price was almost $4million above low estimate!

This extraordinary auction was extremely strong throughout. Included was the Bruce Stern Collection offering an extraordinary array of 20th Century military items and Class III weapons; spectacular collection of high quality shotguns; incredible Colts; beautiful Winchesters; portions of the Robert Sadler, Ron Gabel, & Hank Vogel Collections, the late Ron Kiser Collection of single shots; Civil War items and much, much more! Prior to the JDJ auction the Poulin Auction Company conducted a spectacular 3-Day auction grossing $1.5 million. A $14.2 MILLION combined total!!!!!

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There's was a lot of excellent quality up for auction and I won some neat items, but I couldn't believe the prices some of the items went for. Here's an example...

Lot 2428. Ross Model 1912 Single Shot Training Rifle. Cal. 22. S# A172. Overall condition is good. Bore is bright. Receiver and barrel show approx. 80% of a blue scattered with brown with some apparent touch up on the front 2”. Barrel bands show approx. 80% original blue. Buttstock shows good with light scuffs and several dates and inspection marks on the right side. (07-2357 / BK / BS) Curio. Est. $ 500 - 700.

Sold for $4,600 U.S. :yikes:

Price DOES NOT include auction house Buyer's Premium of 15-17%

I'll be putting together a photo montage in the next few weeks on dozens of various quality (some exotic) items and the values they sold for. :thup:

Regards,
Badger

How about this one ... :D

2430. British Godsal’s Patent, Manufactured by Webley & Scott in October of 1902, Bolt Action Rifle. Cal. 303. S# 22003 on bolt. Overall condition is good. Bore is bright and shiny. This rifle appears to have been the beginning of the bullpup frenzy. Rifle has a very short buttstock with a very long front end and has the trigger directly below the front ring of the receiver with the bolt and magazine behind the trigger. Rifle shows approx. 95% of the original blue with slight scattered corrosion throughout. Buttstock and hand guard are good with only light scuffing. A very unique British rifle, ahead of it’s time. (07-2360 / BK / BS) Curio. Est. $ 900 – 1500

Sold for $16,250 U.S. ;)

Price DOES NOT include auction house Buyer's Premium of 15-17%

Regards,
Badger

Here’s an interesting one. I stopped bidding on this No.6 Mk1 very early, as it wasn't serial numbered between XP101 and XP149, which I believe it should be if it’s all correct? In fact, there was no serial number on it at all.

2307. Australian Lithgow No. 6 MK I Bolt Action Carbine. Cal. 303. S# 0A44 on striker. Overall condition is good. Bore is bright and shiny. These were a trials rifle made in Lithgow in very limited numbers. Metal retains approx. 90% of an arsenal parkerizing with the buttstock and hand guards showing good overall some light and very little moderate gouging present. (07-2302 / BK / BS) Curio. Est. $ 1200 - 2000

Sold for $6,700 U.S. :)

Price DOES NOT include auction house Buyer's Premium of 15-17%

Attachment 1537 Attachment 1538 Attachment 1539 Attachment 1540 Attachment 1541 Attachment 1542 Attachment 1543 Attachment 1544

Attachment 1545 Attachment 1546 Attachment 1547 Attachment 1548 Attachment 1549 Attachment 1550

Regards,
Badger

Edit: UPDATE.....

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Originally Posted by Son

Badger, I've just had a look at the pics from your link, it does seem a bit suspect to me as well. As far as I now they were ALL marked with the XP serial number. There was 194 made, starting with XP 101. That rifle would have been in the first lot of >50.

It should be marked like this (mine was from early in the third lot- standard buttplate, receiver mounted rear sight) although I'm not sure off hand if the first 97 built on ordinary receivers had the receivers made special at Lithgow or if they were just drawn from standard production. The later 97 were a new forging incorporating the rear sight mounts. (See pic below)

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This will scare you ... :move eek:

204 *MAUSER 98K SHORT RAIL SNIPER RIFLE WITH SLING AND BAYONET. SN 7674. Cal. 8mm. Fine example of a German 98K short rail sniper system with a 24" bbl. Manufactures proof CE/43. Short rail scope system. All matching. German sniper rifles were among the finest in the world and considered vastly superior to any sniping system the United States had with the possible exception of the USMC 03A1. All numbers and inspection stamps are as they should be on this wonderful and exotic rifle. PROVENANCE: Stern Collection. CONDITION: Rifle remains in fantastic condition with the receiver showing better than 95% of its orig finish, the bbl assembly shows approximately 90% finish with the muzzle and turning plum. Front bbl band shows only traces of orig finish but is correctly numbered to the gun. Middle bbl band shows better than 95% orig blue. Trigger guard assembly shows better than 95% orig blue with the floorplate showing approximately 70% and also turning plum. Bolt has approximately 50% orig finish with the primary wear being on the body from use. Numbered stock and hand guard are in excellent condition with only a few minor bruises on the buttstock and one small chip just below the reinforcing lug. Scope "BJM Code" retains nearly all of its finish with very clear optics. Mechanics are crisp and bore is bright and shiny with only a minimal showing of wear. All in all an outstanding example of a short rail 98K. Even the buttplate shows no abuse. Bayonet and sheath are in excellent condition and matching each other but not the gun. 4-34068 BK93 (5,000-7,500)

Sold for $24,150 U.S. :)

Price includes auction house Buyer's Premium of 15-17%

Regards,
Badger

Wow, 130K for an FG42!! I knew they were upwards of 100 now but wow....

I can't believe the turk Enfauser went for $50!?! I would have paid $500 had I been in the know!

Looks like some guns went scary cheap and others went scary expensive.

Now that I see those other pics of the No.6Mk1 I am glad you didn't win it Badger. It ain't right in my books. Someone has CLEARLY spot-welded over the serial nuber, dressed the area, and reblued it. Those purplish circles where the serial number would be are areas where the metal composition is different. It's likely been tig welded with a nickel-rich rod, causing the purplish color.

It may still be real, but it's just as likely also a fake. Certainly I would be really worried about spending 6700 on it. DEFINITELY hesitant when coupled that lack of a legit XP serial number!!!

How about a Pedersen device from the James Julia Auction on Monday … :)

ULTRA RARE US MODEL 1918 - MARK 1 PEDERSEN DEVICE. SN 11677. Cal. 30. This Remington manufactured Pedersen device, number 11677, was manufactured for issue with the 1903 Mark 1 rifle. It is complete along with one box of ammo, two spanner/assembly/disassembly wrenches, one magazine, one magazine pouch marked "RIA 8-19" and a tool pouch also marked "RIA 8-19". Markings on the device are as follows: "USA 1918 Mark I 11677 Remington/Bridgeport, Pedersen's Pat. Pending". Rear of block inspected EEC, eagle's head/16. The vast majority of these devices were destroyed by the government and very few in any condition are a rare and expensive find. PROVENANCE: Stern Collection. CONDITION: Retains between 85-90% orig dark gray finish with the majority of marks being on the outside from having been installed. There is no rust or pitting evident anywhere and device appears complete, original and ready to use. Comes with a small amount of accessories that are in excellent condition as well as ammo which is sealed. There is no can present. 4-34193 BK106 (20,000-30,000)

Sold for $63,250 ;)

Price includes auction house Buyer's Premium of 15-17%

Regards,
Badger

But would you fire a pedersen if you had one? ;)

Actually, from the look of it, I could make one easy enough if I had a set of drawings. Looks pretty basic.

For that matter, you could chamber it for 7.62x25TT.

The reason they are so rare is they were all destroyed, save about 25 or so. Those that are floating around are the ones that were salvaged from the scrap heap when they were all burnt in a deac attempt. I've handled one and ALMOST got the chance to fire it..damned it... but it would not fit the Mk.1 Springfield we had for some reason. Was NOT about to start fitting it... I'm sorting pictures and "junque" now, so if I find the close ups I took I'll try and send them to the site here.

How about a Long Branch sniper in the James Julia auction that looked fabulous from the pics, but one of our Advisory Panel members Lance was there and got the opportunity to handle it.

He said: "Lot #277--LB No. 4 T sniper with REL Mk 3 scope. Remarks: Appears to of been at least issued or inspected as there is a 1950's British Broad arrow mark below safety. Forend s/n'd as British T's are. ***Scope can is a 1945 BE Ltd British can, it is s/n'd to the rifle but is a heavly painted, possible force match. Transit chest is also British that has the rifle s/n written in pencil on the end tag but is also painted on the chest (most likely a garage paint job, as most of the sniper chests there have the rifle s/n painted on the chest)."

As a result of his feedback, I cancelled my own bidding on it, as it's not a completely "all correct" piece and I think it went way over priced.

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CANADIAN NUMBER IV MARK I (T) SNIPER RIFLE. SN 90L8122. Cal. 303. These rifles, as with the British, were converted by Holland & Holland and used various telescopes. This one is fitted with a No. 32 marked for MK3 manufactured by R.E.L. in Canada. Gun is in magnificent all around condition, matching with the exception of possibly the buttstock, which has the number 1090 stamped in the top but is in identical fit and finish to the rest of the rifle. It is fitted with a Enfield web sling and Number 9 Mark I blade bayonet. Rifle comes with transit chest. PROVENANCE: Stern Collection. CONDITION: Rifle is in magnificent condition overall, showing almost no use. Receiver and scope base retain better than 98% of orig dark gray Parkerizing. Telescope shows 95% blue with just a little enamel flaking around the knobs and on the sunshade. Optics are as good as they could possibly be, showing no fading, no dust and no dirt, just a picture perfect view. Bolt retains 85% orig blue showing scuffing on the body from being actuated. Bbl bands and front sight assembly show approximately 99% orig blue with the bbl showing 98% with just a little wear from the bayonet being installed. Upper handguards show no wear at all with just a couple of very light scuffs on the light one from being set in a rack. Lower handguard assembly (numbered to gun) shows just a couple of very light bruises with no finish loss what so ever. Triggerguard assembly shows 98% original blue with the magazine showing 80%. Buttstock is also in magnificent condition with light finish showing just a couple of nicks at the rear of the pistol grip and one or two slight bruises on the cheekpiece. Action is crisp and clean and the bore shows bright and shiny with almost no wear at all. blued buttplate has approximately 95% orig finish with just a little high edge wear and a pull-through in the butt trap. Sling shows just a little mildew, otherwise shows excellent. This long branch sniper rifle would be nearly impossible to upgrade. Transit chest in good condition. 4-34065 BK125 (3,750-5,250)

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A side note. Although it refers to 1090 in the description, it was actually correctly marked on the wrist as 109C. Someone mistook the "C" for a "0". :D

Sold for $6,325 U.S. ;)

Price includes auction house Buyer's Premium of 15-17%

Regards,
Badger

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Originally Posted by Claven2

Now that I see those other pics of the No.6Mk1 I am glad you didn't win it Badger. It ain't right in my books. Someone has CLEARLY spot-welded over the serial nuber, dressed the area, and reblued it. Those purplish circles where the serial number would be are areas where the metal composition is different. It's likely been tig welded with a nickel-rich rod, causing the purplish color.

It may still be real, but it's just as likely also a fake. Certainly I would be really worried about spending 6700 on it. DEFINITELY hesitant when coupled that lack of a legit XP serial number!!!

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Lance also mentioned that "The Aussie No.6 looks suspicious, the sold out of service mark on the reciever is unusual for after WWII sales."

Regards,
Badger

Anyone know what the set of PIATs in the crate sold for?

How about this for the Mauser collector…

RARE GERMAN VG 2 LAST DITCH BOLT ACTION RIFLE. SN 2134A. Cal. 8MM. Bolt action rifle that uses a 10 rnd G43 mag. It has a 21" bbl with no bayonet lug and was cheaply built at the end of the war made out of a singly U shaped stamping. This example has the mfg. code CYQ which is spreewerk. This is a seldom found rifle in any condition. PROVENANCE: Stern Collection. CONDITION: Condition is fairly good with approx 80% of orig finish showing but with pin prick pitting throughout. Bbl assembly is blued except for the front 4" retains about 75% of its finish with a significant amount of spotting throughout. Trigger guard assembly and mag catch has a small amount of surface rust that should clean to show better. Front hand guard assembly is in good shape with no major scarring and retains better than 90% of its oil finish. Buttstock assembly shows very good also with some very minor bruising. Buttplate is in good condition with patina on it and cups over back of stock. Mechanics are in need of work as the action works, but firing pin assembly accuates with the bolt. Bore is bright and shiny and appears to be virtually unfired though counter bored approx 1 1/2" from muzzle. This is an extremely rare piece and with my 40 plus years in guns, this is only the second that I have seen. Sling is good with one small gouge in it approx 5" behind the front swivel. 4-33960 BK66 (4,000-5,000)

Sold for $18,400 U.S. ;)

Price includes auction house Buyer's Premium of 15-17%

Regards,
Badger

…… and another one for the Mauser collector…

GERMAN VG5 C. SN 7538. Cal. 7.92 X 32 cartridge. This is the crudely made German semi-auto rifle that was mfg during the late war after the raids from the eighth air force pretty much destroyed the German capability of mfg firearms. This is one of the last examples of Germany getting driven back in time. Rifle is complete with canvas sling and mag and in working order. These are very rare as most of the GI's brought home German guns that were finely made instead of these. A fine exotic piece for the advanced axis collector. PROVENANCE: Stern Collection. CONDITION: As good as it ever was. Spot welded receiver with no finish and assembled basic block pieces of wood, with the serial number stamped into the buttstock. 4-33961 BK25 (12,000-15,000)

Sold for $31,050 U.S. ;)

Price includes auction house Buyer's Premium of 15-17%

Regards,
Badger

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Originally Posted by stencollector

Anyone know what the set of PIATs in the crate sold for?

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I only got prices for the ones that surrounded the times I was on-line for phone bids.

I've got the final price catalogs on order, so when they arrive and if you haven't got an answer from elsewhere, remind me and I'll look it up for you... :thup:

Regards,
Badger

Did you hear the prices for the VG1 and the VG98 as well as the VG2?

The Piat's sold for between $3-4k (did not write it down) in a nice Greek transit chest. I would of like one but did not/could not afford the whole lot.

Sat beside a great guy from Mississippi who I helped convinced to buy the Dealer Sample Bren Mk I for $15K (hey it is not my $$) and helped him bid on one of the German last ditch semi-auto's (sorry cannot remember which, not my area) but he bailed at $25K. Quality on most items were very good but the 15% premium killed me thus, in great saddness, I came home without a prize. I regret 2 pieces that I should of bid past my max but auctions madness is intoxicating so I can make myself feel a little better by saying I had will power.

Of interest is that a few of the No.4 T's were screwed with, by whom no one knows but some bidders got burnt. Some bidders ended up with some treasures and I had to laugh as 2 British scopes from the auction are now on epay.

Lance

If the scopes are there, one has to wonder how long before the rest of the guns are here as well, minus the receivers ;)

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Originally Posted by Claven2

If the scopes are there, one has to wonder how long before the rest of the guns are here as well, minus the receivers ;)

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I can't say as to the WW1 scope that is on ebay, but the WW2 scope is a #42. Of course, the seller makes great claims as to the provenance and useage (ie "commando 22 snipers"), while also claiming that he doesn't know anything about these things.

Punch in "enfield" and "sniper" and you'll see the two of them.

For you serious British collectors ……

British Godsal’s Patent, Manufactured by Webley & Scott in October of 1902, Bolt Action Rifle. Cal. 303. S# 22003 on bolt. Overall condition is good. Bore is bright and shiny. This rifle appears to have been the beginning of the bullpup frenzy. Rifle has a very short buttstock with a very long front end and has the trigger directly below the front ring of the receiver with the bolt and magazine behind the trigger. Rifle shows approx. 95% of the original blue with slight scattered corrosion throughout. Buttstock and hand guard are good with only light scuffing. A very unique British rifle, ahead of it’s time. (07-2360 / BK / BS) Curio. Est. $ 900 – 1500


Sold for $16,250 U.S. ;)

Price DOES NOT include auction house Buyer's Premium of 15-17%

Regards,
Badger

Some of the Stern No.4 T's just popped up on Gunbroker, the two listed were two of the three worst examples there. I did not even bother to stay at the auction to see what they originally sold for.

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Originally Posted by stencollector

Anyone know what the set of PIATs in the crate sold for?

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Originally Posted by Lance

The Piat's sold for between $3-4k (did not write it down) in a nice Greek transit chest. I would of like one but did not/could not afford the whole lot.

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Here you go … :thup:

Price includes auction house Buyer's Premium of 15-17%

THREE (3) BRITISH P.I.A.T. ANTI-TANK WEAPONS. SN IC/A54633: IC/BZ12456: GZ14565. Cal. 88mm - The P.I.A.T. (Projector, Infantry, Anti-Tank) was an active anti-tank launcher for the British Infantry from 1942 to 1950. Here we have 3 fantastic specimens packaged in a Greek WWII Army issue wooden crate. There is an inert / practice round included with each launcher for a total of 3. The projectile launched was an 88mm, 3 pound warhead with an impact fuse and was launched by a propelling charge in a hollow tail between the warhead and the stabilizing fins. Although it had a reasonable maximum range, the actual range it was found to be effective was in the area of 100 yards or so. The launchers measure 39 inches in length and weigh approximately 32 pounds. They have a bipod that mounts in a ring area in front of tube. They utilize a large internal spring to assist in the firing mechanism and to help tame the enormous recoil. The shoulder piece has a rubber filled, canvas pad laced on the stock section and 2 tan, web slings on the right side of the launcher. The rear sight (aiming mechanism) is on the left side of the tube behind the pistol grip and the front sight is a folding pin located above the front of the trigger guard. A small cork (on a retention chain) is attached to the tube on the right side. The cork is used to plug the mechanism after it is cocked, before loading the projectile. The steel pistol grip is covered with a black plastic, 2-piece covering. It is important to note that the BATFE had listed these in Section III of the Curios & Relics List: Weapons Removed From The NFA As Collector's Items And Classified As Curios Or Relics Under The GCA. These are no longer NFA firearms and simply transfer as standard, Title I firearms! No transfer fees and no NFA style paperwork wait. PROVENANCE: Stern Collection. CONDITION: Good – These interesting launchers are a great find, especially with their practice rounds and fitted wooden crate. It would be a great addition to any collection or just an opportunity for a few buddies to chip in on something really unique and reasonably priced. 4-34680 JZ99 (2,800-3,800)

Sold for $5,750 U.S. ;)

Regards,
Badger

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Originally Posted by Lance

Some of the Stern No.4 T's just popped up on Gunbroker, the two listed were two of the three worst examples there. I did not even bother to stay at the auction to see what they originally sold for.

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Are these the ones? ;)

All prices include auction house Buyer's Premium of 15-17%

278 *BRITISH NUMBER IV MARK I (T) SNIPER RIFLE. SN AQ7384. Cal. 303. These sniper versions of the Mark I were fitted with scope mounts on the left side of the receiver. Many of these rifles were converted by Holland & Holland and used various telescopes. This one is fitted with a Number 32 telescope. Rifle is also equipped with a spike bayonet and web frog as well as a leather sling with brass keepers. Rifle is equipped with a transit chest. PROVENANCE: Stern Collection. CONDITION: Rifle shows excellent with the receiver and trigger housing showing better than 95% orig finish. No pitting is present and it is very pleasing. The scope mount, which is numbered to the gun, has approximately 95% of black Parkerized finish. The telescope shows approximately 85% of its finish with some minor nicks through the enamel showing brass. Optics are clear. Leather brass lens caps are in excellent condition. Middle and front bbl bands retain better than 85% orig finish as does the front sight and bbl assembly. Upper handguards show only the slightest of scuffing as does the front wood. Rear receiver wood and buttstock show a little more scarring with a couple of significant bruises at the bottom of the wrist (buttstock retains a different SN). Cheekpiece and aluminum buttplate show excellent with no dents or scarring at all. Action is crisp and bore is bright and shiny, showing light wear. All in all a pretty nice number IV. Transit chest is in good condition. 4-34080 BK122 (2,800-3,800)

Attachment 1587Attachment 1588

Sold for $4,888 U.S.



279 *NUMBER IV MARK I (T) BRITISH SNIPER RIFLE. SN S39516. Cal. 303. These sniper versions of the Mark I were fitted with scope mounts on the left side of the receiver. Many of these rifles were converted by Holland & Holland and used various telescopes. This one is fitted with a Number 32 telescope. Rifle is also equipped with a spike bayonet and web frog as well as a leather sling with brass keepers. Also includes very nice British web scope case and transit chest. PROVENANCE: Stern Collection. CONDITION: Receiver retains approximately 95% of a possible re-finish dark gray Parkerizing as does the matching scope mount. Telescope is a number 32, showing better than 95% of orig enamel with crystal clear optics that show nearly new. It also has a red "W" and blue "B" painted on the sides. Scope caps are also excellent. Bbl shows better than 95% orig blue with just slight markings from having the bayonet taken on and off. Front sight and bands show better than 95% orig finish. Upper handguards are in exceptional condition with one or two very slight bruises in the front one. Lower guards, which are matching number to gun, are also in magnificent shape showing very little marks at all. Triggerguard and magazine assembly show better than 90% orig black matte finish. Buttstock and cheekpiece are in excellent condition (though not matching) with just a minimal of bruising as is the brass buttplate. A very nice Number IV sniper rifle with crisp action and excellent bright and shiny bore. 4-34081 BK124 (3,300-4,550)

Attachment 1589Attachment 1590Attachment 1593

Sold for $7,475 U.S.



282 *NUMBER IV MARK I (T) BRITISH SNIPER RIFLE. SN H37807. Cal. 303. These sniper versions of the Mark I were fitted with scope mounts on the left side of the receiver. Many of these rifles were converted by Holland & Holland and used various telescopes. This one is fitted with a Number 32 telescope. Rifle is also equipped with a blade bayonet Number 7 MK I/L for British rifles, that appears to be adaptable to more than one type of rifle and should be looked at very closely, the web frog as well as a leather sling with steel keepers are present. Magazine well and buttstock are not numbered to this gun but are in like condition. Rifle is equipped with a transit chest. PROVENANCE: Stern Collection. CONDITION: Rifle retains what appears to be a re-Parkerized finish with the receiver and matching scope base retaining better than 98%. Bbl bands remain in excellent condition and retains 98% finish. Exposed portion of the bbl showing about 85% with some light scratching from installation of the bayonet. Bayonet is a knife blade with mica, or plasitc, handles with "England" embossed in the left grip. Upper handguards are in very good condition with the front one showing just a couple of light bruises and the rear showing near mint. Lower handguard and front stock assembly is in very good condition, being numbered to this gun, with very prominent proof marks. Triggerguard assembly shows 98% of orig blue and the buttstock is in exceptional condition showing little to no scarring at all. Cheekpiece is also in excellent condition as is buttplate. Telescope shows 90% finish with what appears to be some touch-up on the front sunshade and a red stenciled "W" upside down on the right side. Optics are excellent as are scope caps. Action is crisp and bore is bright and shiny showing little to no wear. Transit chest is in good condition. 4-34079 BK123 (2,800-4,300)

Attachment 1591

Sold for $3,450 U.S.



369 *ENFIELD NUMBER 4 MARK I SNIPER RIFLE. SN 14C0725. Cal. 303 Brit. Savage made Enfield with 25" bbl, standard sights and 2-pc walnut stock with 2-pc upper handguard that has serrations on each side of the rear guard and it has a British brass & canvas sling. The comb has a screwed on wood cheekpiece and a gray metal buttplate with trap. Left side of receiver has the standard British sniper mount that has been renumbered a couple of times and contains a No. 32 MKIII sniper scope with serial number "18187" and dated "1945". Several thousand of these rifles were modified into sniper rifles by the British, particularly by Holland & Holland. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. The receiver, receiver ring & trigger guard retain most of their fine gray parkerized finish with bbl bands a thinned gray brown finish. Scope & mount retain most of their arsenal restored finish. Wood is sound with numerous nicks & dings and retains a hand worn patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered light pitting. Optics are crisp & clear. 4-31822 (2,000-3,000)

Attachment 1592

Sold for $2,875 U.S.

Here it is being re-sold on Gunbroker (click here) with a starting bid of $3,995.00 :lol:

It didn't sell in his third auction attempt at that price, so ... Re-listed Gunbroker Auction (click here) still with a starting bid of $3,550.00 and a BUY NOW of $3,599.00 ;) Finally sold for $2,800.00 U.S. (click here). I think he lost money on this one ... :D




370 *ENFIELD NO. 4 MARK I SNIPER RIFLE. SN L38636. Cal. 303 Brit. Usual configuration with 25-1/4" bbl, standard front sight with a 1,300 meter ladder rear sight. Left side of receiver has standard British sniper bases but, unfortunately is missing scope. Receiver ring is dated "1944". Mounted in a 2-pc walnut stock with 2-pc handguard and a white metal buttplate with trap. Comb of stock has a screwed-on cheekpiece. CONDITION: Rifle shows approx 95% of an arsenal finish on the receiver and trigger group. Bbl bands, bbl and front sight assembly show approx 75% enamel finish with some scratches. Buttstock and handguards show good overall, having been cleaned and arsenal refinished with only minor scuffing. Magazine shows a plum finish overall. Mechanics are fine, strong sharp bore that should clean very well. 4-31832 (700-1,000)

Attachment 1594

Sold for $805 U.S.

It was re-sold on Gunbroker (click here) with a "buy now" bid of $1,299.00. ;)



371 *BRITISH ENFIELD NO. 4 MARK I SNIPER RIFLE. SN 30721. Cal. 303 Brit. Usual configuration with 25-1/4" bbl, standard front sight with a 300 & 600 yard 2-position flip rear sight. Left side of receiver has standard British sniper bases but, unfortunately is missing scope. Receiver ring is dated "1944". Mounted in a 2-pc walnut stock with 2-pc handguard and a white metal buttplate with trap. CONDITION: Fine. Metal retains most of its orig arsenal finish with magazine retaining about 85% finish. Wood is sound with nicks & dings and a hairline crack by receiver ring in forestock and retains an arsenal restored finish. Mechanics are fine, brilliant shiny bore. 4-31831 (700-1,000)

Attachment 1595

Sold for $748 U.S.

It was re-sold Gunbroker (click here) with a "buy now" bid of $1,350.00. ;)

Regards,
Badger

For you L42 collectors ..... :)

All prices include auction house Buyer's Premium of 15-17%

283 *BRITISH ENFIELD L42A1 SNIPER RIFLE. SN M37044. Introduced in 1970, this rifle is a converted number 4 (T) chambered for the 7.62mm cartridge. Half stocked with upper handguard with 27.6" heavy barrel. A converted number 32 Mark 3 scope is used marked, "TEL.STRT.STG.L1A1." Rifle is complete with crate , manual and accessories. PROVENANCE: Stern Collection. CONDITION: Overall shows good with the receiver showing approximately 90% to 95% enamel finish and the bbl showing approx 85% finish with a slightly frosty bore. Upper and lower handguard show good overall with the upper being a replacement as the color is slightly off. Buttstock and cheekpiece show good with only light scuffing present and a slight arsenal repair just in front of the buttplate on top. Scope shows approx 65% to 70% enamel with the balance flaking to brass and clear optics. Leather scope caps show good. Sling is good. 4-34008 BK142 (1,500-2,000)

Attachment 1596Attachment 1597

Sold for $3,105 U.S.



284 *BRITISH ENFIELD L42A1 SNIPER RIFLE. SN N31729. Introduced in 1970, this rifle is a converted number 4 (T) chambered for the 7.62mm cartridge. Half stocked with upper handguard with 27.6" heavy barrel. A converted number 32 Mark 3 scope is used marked, "TEL.STRT.STG.L1A1." Rifle is complete with crate, manual and accessories. PROVENANCE: Stern Collection. CONDITION: Rifle shows good overall condition with the receiver and scope mount showing approx 95% of the applied black enamel finish. Bbl also shows approx 95%. Upper and lower handguards show near excellent, showing no abuse at all. Buttstock and cheekpiece show very good with light scattered rub marks with an arsenal repair on the top of the stock directly in front of the buttplate. Scope shows near excellent with 98% of finish intact and clear optics. Leather scope caps show new. Sling shows excellent. 4-33993 BK143 (2,200-2,600)

Attachment 1598Attachment 1599

Sold for $5,175 U.S.



285 *BRITISH L42A1 SNIPER RIFLE WITH CRATE. SN A32542. Introduced in 1970, this rifle is a converted number 4 (T) chambered for the 7.62mm cartridge. Half stocked with upper handguard with 27.6" heavy barrel. A converted number 32 Mark 3 scope is used marked, "TEL.STRT.STG.L1A1." Rifle is complete with crate, manual and accessories. PROVENANCE: Stern Collection. CONDITION: Overall condition is good with a slightly frosty bore. Rifle retains approx 85% to 90% of the added black enamel finish from when it was remanufactured. Upper and lower handguards show good overall with only light scuffing present as rebuilt. Buttstock with added cheekpiece also show very good overall with only light scuffing present. Telescope has crystal clear optics with leather scope caps that show new. 4-34043 BK141 (2,000-2,700)

Attachment 1600Attachment 1601

Sold for $4,888 U.S.


Regards,
Badger

Some exotic and experimental stuff ..... :madsmile:

All prices include auction house Buyer's Premium of 15-17%

183 *EXTREMELY RARE PRE-WWII EXPERIMENTAL SEMI-AUTO MILITARY RIFLE. SN 8. Cal. 6.5 Jap. Made at Nippon Special Steel Factory as a copy of the American & British Pedersen rifle with 23-1/4" bbl, integral front sight pedestal with hooded barleycorn sight. The receiver has the Pedersen style toggle action bolt with a stripper clip slot in the front edge. The rear sight is integral with rear edge of receiver and has an adjusting knurled knob graduated from 300 to 1,500 yards. The detachable box magazine is released via a catch in the front edge of trigger guard that has a push button safety to prevent the magazine being released prematurely. Rifle safety is a swinging lever on right side just above trigger. Mounted in 2-pc wood stock with the forestock split longitudinally with grasping grooves below middle band and five cooling slots on each side above middle band. It has sling loops on left side with a smooth metal buttplate. All visible parts are numbered "8" except magazine which bears the numbers "2" on the body and "4" on the base. This rifle operates on a gas system which has a pressure relief piston below muzzle through the upper band. PROVENANCE: Stern Collection. CONDITION: Very good. Metal retains about 50% thin orig blue turning plum with balance a gray patina. The forestock has a small arsenal repair at left rear edge, otherwise is sound and original with numerous nicks, dings & scratches and retains a hand worn patina. Buttstock has a crack through the bottom buttplate screw hole, otherwise is sound with nicks, dings & scratches and retains generous amounts of orig factory finish. Mechanics are crisp, strong sharp bore, dark in the grooves. 4-33701 JR151 (7,500-12,500)


Attachment 1613Attachment 1614
Attachment 1615Attachment 1616

Sold for $23,000 U.S.



238 *RARE BRITISH PEDERSEN SEMI-AUTO MILITARY RIFLE. SN 98. Cal. 276 Pedersen. Very rare limited production rifle with 24" bbl, orig sleeve front sight with the unusual spiral machined cooling vanes over rear 2/5 of bbl, with a pierced metal hand guard cover. Action is the unusual George Luger-style knee action toggle-style with a vernier peep sight integral at back end with windage adjustment. It has a box magazine that loads from top and is mounted in a 1-pc walnut stock with two bands. Front band is split like the U.S. military models with integral bayonet lug & stacking swivel. Middle band has a sling loop with corresponding loop in butt. Sides of forestock have grasping grooves and bottom of forestock has cooling vents and it is fitted with a checkered, stamped steel buttplate and is accompanied by a U.S. military brass & leather sling. Also accompanied by a U.S. Remington Model 1917 bayonet & green leather scabbard, dated "1918". PROVENANCE: Stern Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Metal retains most of its orig arsenal finish with some thinning on toggle link and sharp edges. Stock is sound with nicks, dings & scratches and a series of bruises just above trigger on right side. Mechanics are fine, brilliant shiny bore. Sling is very fine with some verdigris around brass. Bayonet is extremely fine, retaining virtually all of its orig factory finish. 4-34101 JR45 (8,000-12,000)

Attachment 1602Attachment 1603Attachment 1604
Attachment 1605Attachment 1606

Sold for $13,800 U.S.



239 *EXTREMELY RARE BRITISH FARQUAHR-HILL PATENT EXPERIMENTAL SEMI-AUTO RIFLE. SN 22. Cal. 303 British. Very unusual rifle with 26" tapered rnd bbl, Enfield style protected front sight and an unusual vernier ladder rear sight mounted to rear of receiver. It has an all metal handguard with a round oak grip post mounted to a multiple position rail on bottom. Sides of handguard have sliding covers with multiple ports, apparently for either cooling or gas relief. Left side of receiver has British Patent number. The most unusual feature is the large detachable sheet metal drum magazine. Mounted with an uncheckered straight grain semi-pistol grip buttstock with smooth rifle buttplate with trap containing a British pull-through. It has sling loops on front band with a corresponding loop in buttstock containing a brown leather sling. PROVENANCE: Stern Collection. CONDITION: Very fine. Overall retains 75-80% orig blue on metal handguard with a heavy dent in upper section. Bbl & receiver retain most of their orig arsenal blue. Magazine is mostly a gray/brown patina. Buttstock is sound with usual nicks & dings and retains most of its orig factory varnish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore. Sling is fine. 4-34103 JR41 (3,000-5,000)

Attachment 1607Attachment 1608Attachment 1609

Sold for $12,650 U.S.


286 *EXPERIMENTAL BRITISH BOLT ACTION REPEATING MILITARY SERVICE RIFLE. SN 6. Cal. 303 British. Unusual rifle with 25" bbl with protected front sight and a unique bayonet with 7-1/2" spike that stores under bottom of bbl and mounts in forward extended position by means of a spring loaded plunger. Muzzle has two detent holes for mounting either on bottom or side. Rear sight is a 2-position peep sight graduated 300 to 600 yards. Receiver is machined steel with integral box magazine, a stamped sheet metal trigger & trigger guard with crossbolt safety and small wood panels on each side. Buttstock is typical Enfield pattern with the stock ring welded to back of receiver. Left side of receiver has an integral scope mount. The forestock is large & rounded, uncheckered with a matching handguard. It has sling loops on front band and on stock with a white metal buttplate with trap containing cleaning equipment and an oiler. PROVENANCE: Stern Collection. CONDITION: Extremely fine. Metal retains most of its orig arsenal finish with slight sharp edge wear and some blue wear on front sling band. Wood is sound with usual light nicks & dings and retains most of its orig arsenal varnish. Mechanics are crisp, strong bright bore, frosty in grooves. 4-34189 JR43 (2,500-5,000)

Attachment 1610Attachment 1611Attachment 1612

Sold for $12,650 U.S.

Regards,
Badger

For you sten gun fans ..... :)

All prices include auction house Buyer's Premium of 15-17%

44 *BRITISH STEN MKI SUB MACHINE GUN. SN 294029. Cal. 9mm. Very dark gray Parkerized finish on all exposed metal. Front sight protected stationary post. Rear sight stationary peep. Sling swivel in front of bbl and inside loop stock. Canvas sling, and 30-rnd magazine are also included. PROVENANCE: Stern Collection. CONDITION: Good. Finish is dark and uniform with regular rack and handling wear. Open bolt mechanism functions smooth by hand in both safe and semi. Bbl has lots of rifling. 4-34655 JZ29 (7,000-9,000)


Attachment 1617

Sold for $32,200 U.S.



45 *GERMAN MODEL MP3008 SUB MACHINE GUN. SN RDE45. Cal. 9mm luger. 8" bbl. This very rare submachine gun was a direct German copy of the Sten. This model was produced by Mauser as well as six other firms and appeared early on in several versions intended for Volkssturm use. Production did not begin until close of the end of the war. This gun at first glance looks almost identical to the British Sten, with the exception of the magazine well which is at the six 'o clock position rather than the standard nine o' clock position. Ejection is still out the right hand side. Very crude front sight constructed from a ring and shaped to a point. Rear sight is a fixed peep sight again very similar to that of the Sten. Gun utilizes standard MP38 and MP40 32-rnd magazines. Sling attachment is fixed to front of magazine well. Rear of receiver marked with a serial number in front of the stock. Stock was designed to resemble a loop type Sten stock. PROVENANCE: Stern Collection. CONDITION: Very good. Although the workmanship of these firearms were crude and spot welded that can't take away from the rarity and overall condition of this fine specimen. The bbl is shiny and rifling is sharp. Open bolt mechanism functions well by hand in safe, and semi full automatic. 4-34656 JZ44 (16,000-19,000)

Attachment 1618

Sold for $37,375 U.S.



69 *BRITISH STEN MARK II SUB MACHINE GUN. SN 55405. Cal. 9mm luger. Manufactured by J.L. & CO LTD (England). 7-3/4" bbl "T style stock." Standard welded blade front sight, standard welded peep rear sight, all Parkerized gray finish, and includes one magazine. PROVENANCE: Stern Collection. CONDITION: Currently Unserviceable. Althought all paperwork indicates this is an orig. transferable machine gun it may have been dewated at one time. Bbl has an obstruction, and bbl shroud has been tack welded to receiver. Could be easily inexpensively restored to fully operational. Everything else seems correct, and open bolt mechanism functions properly in both semi, and full. All metal Pakerized w/ heavy coverage shows light rack and handling wear. 4-34653 JZ17 (5,000-8,000)

Attachment 1619

Sold for $8,338 U.S.


Regards,
Badger

Ever notice how most of the British no4T snipers (along with their L42 offspring) have serial numbers in the 3X,XXX range? 7 out of the 8 British Enfields listed above are in that range, albeit different and various letter prefix's.

Amazing some of these prices, and some of the deeeeep pocketbooks that have bought them.

Nice Sten Mk1!!! Too bad it didn't have the conical flash hider too, though im my case the point is moot. It's not really ownable for 99.999% of us in Canada :( BWAAAA!!! I'm not grandfathered!!! :dunno:

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Claven2

Nice Sten Mk1!!! Too bad it didn't have the conical flash hider too, though im my case the point is moot. It's not really ownable for 99.999% of us in Canada :( BWAAAA!!! I'm not grandfathered!!! :dunno:

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Grandfathered or not, I doubt you or any other Canadian would spend 32,200 US $ on a gun that you can't take to the range here in Canada.

I have bought F/As in the past and had them transferred to my local gunsmiths for deactivation. I don't even want to mention what some of them are...but suffice to say they would have done nicely at this auction if they were allowed South.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Badger

369 *ENFIELD NUMBER 4 MARK I SNIPER RIFLE. SN 14C0725. Cal. 303 Brit. Savage made Enfield with 25" bbl, standard sights and 2-pc walnut stock with 2-pc upper handguard that has serrations on each side of the rear guard and it has a British brass & canvas sling. The comb has a screwed on wood cheekpiece and a gray metal buttplate with trap. Left side of receiver has the standard British sniper mount that has been renumbered a couple of times and contains a No. 32 MKIII sniper scope with serial number "18187" and dated "1945". Several thousand of these rifles were modified into sniper rifles by the British, particularly by Holland & Holland. CONDITION: Fine to very fine. The receiver, receiver ring & trigger guard retain most of their fine gray parkerized finish with bbl bands a thinned gray brown finish. Scope & mount retain most of their arsenal restored finish. Wood is sound with numerous nicks & dings and retains a hand worn patina. Mechanics are fine, strong bright bore with scattered light pitting. Optics are crisp & clear. 4-31822 (2,000-3,000)

Attachment 1636

Sold for $2,875 U.S.

Here it is being re-sold on Gunbroker (click here) with a starting bid of $3,995.00 :lol:

It didn't sell in his third auction attempt at that price, so ... Re-listed Gunbroker Auction (click here) still with a starting bid of $3,550.00 and a BUY NOW of $3,599.00 ;) Finally sold for $2,800.00 U.S. (click here). I think he lost money on this one ... :D

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A follow up .... :thup:

I saw this posted by Peter over on Jouster's Enfield boards. I don't think he'd mind it repeated here for our members as well.

Quote:

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Re: I'm calling "Shenanigans!"
Posted By: Peter Laidler
Date: Sun 16 Mar 2008 7:42 am

If the telescope is 18187, then buyer beware. This scope was repaired by me from derelict condition in February 2001. It was one of a batch that came in from India.

Another bit of useless info for you forumers.............

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Note the scope number in the James Julia Auction listing as "18187" and dated "1945". Sounds like the same one to me that Peter refers to.

Regards,
Badger

Sounds like even Stern got burnt a time or two ;)

That being said, if Peter overhauled it, you can rest assured it is now like new.

For you serious sniper scope collectors. :)

Price includes auction house Buyer's Premium of 15-17%

Lot 242 - USMC UNERTL TELESCOPE. This is a US Marine Corps Unertl telescope complete with scope caps, rear scope base, and mica "can". The can has the spring in it. PROVENANCE: Stern Collection. CONDITION: Scope retains better than 90% of orig blue with no scratches or scuffs and just a little bit of freckling by the rear eyepiece. Black enamel rings show some paint wear on the sides. All adjusters and springs work well. Optics are crystal clear. Mica can is complete with spring, cap, and web cap retainer as well as the belt hook assembly. Can is excellent on the inside with 80-85% of the orig O.D. paint remaining on the outside. An excellent USMC scope assembly, if you need it or just feel you'd want to put it away. They are few and far between. 4-34028 BK107 (3,500-5,000)

Attachment 1648

Sold for $6,325 U.S.

Here it is being sold on Gunbroker (click here) with a starting bid of $6,250 and a "Buy Now" of $6,500 U.S.

Regards,
Badger

Here's a link to some of the highlights of the James Julia Auction ... :)

James Julia Auctions (March 2008 - Selected Highlights)

For you Inglis collectors, I thought these two Canadian items were interesting ... :move eek:

Quote:

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Lot 150. *CANADIAN INGLIS (CHINESE) CONTRACT HIGH POWER. (Stern Collection.)
Est: $2,500.00 - $4,000.00
SOLD: $4,600.00

Attachment 1649Attachment 1650

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Quote:

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Lot 155. *RARE PROTOTYPE OF A CANADIAN HI-POWER. (Stern Collection.)
Est: $3,500.00 - $4,500.00
SOLD: $8,625.00

Attachment 1651Attachment 1652

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Regards,
Badger

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Steve1973

Wow, 130K for an FG42!! I knew they were upwards of 100 now but wow....

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This has to have been the one of the highest prices realized from the James Julia auction ... :)

**RHEINMETALL GERMANY FG42 SECOND MODEL. SN 04371. Cal. 7.92mm. 20" bbl. Beautiful and complete specimen of the rare and desirable FG42. Unique finned flash hider, spike bayonet, complete and functioning dust cover, folding bi-pod, flip-up hooded post front sight, flip-up adjustable rear drum sight.Orig. scope, 2 magazines, tan leather sling, finned wooden foregrip, composite pistol grip, and wooden rear butt stock. PROVENANCE: Stern Collection. CONDITION: Fine. All metal surfaces appear to have orig. finish. Gently worn and normal finish wear. Wood is in great shape with the exception of 2 hairline cracks; 1 on the foregrip and 1 on the stock. Orig optics look slightly cloudy, but appears quite functional. Spiked bayonet is in very fine condition in relation to both finish and integrity. Mechanics function smoothly, and bore is shiny w/ sharp lands. 4-34632 JZ5 (50,000-90,000)

Sold for $149,500.00 U.S. :)

Price includes auction house Buyer's Premium of 15-17%

http://photos.imageevent.com/badgerd...ns/34632x2.jpg(Click PIC to Enlarge)http://photos.imageevent.com/badgerd...ns/34632x3.jpg

http://photos.imageevent.com/badgerd...ns/34632x4.jpg(Click PIC to Enlarge)http://photos.imageevent.com/badgerd...ns/34632x6.jpg

http://photos.imageevent.com/badgerd...ns/34632x7.jpg(Click PIC to Enlarge)http://photos.imageevent.com/badgerd...ns/34632x8.jpg

Regards,
Badger

Ok, here you go .... :)

Poulins MARCH 7, 8 & 9, 2008 FIREARMS AUCTION - FINAL PRICES REALIZED (click here)

Note: All prices include auction house Buyer's Premium of 15-17%

Regards,
Badger

Here’s one that went for a high price, but is loaded with issues. Claven2 and Lance gave me a pretty thorough debriefing on this one before and after the auction, whether by accident or design, as to how it's been “faked”. Both of them probably saved us from phone bidding on it.... thanks guys . :thup:

I’ll ask them to add to this thread with their specific opinions and comments about it...... ;)

Regards,
Badger


Poulins Lot 2075. SMLE MK III Bolt Action Military Issue Repeating Service Rifle by London Small Arms Co., 1916 Sniper’s Rifle with Bayonet and Periscopic Prism Co. Telescope. Cal. 303. S# 1878. Overall condition is good plus. Bore is bright and shiny. Shows approx. 85% blue on receiver and front muzzle. Scope shows nearly all original enamel and blue. Has very clear optics. It is mounted on left side of receiver and is accompanied by a leather case. Upper hand guards are very good showing no significant gouges or cracks. Lower hand guard is fair, showing a significant amount of bruising and scraping. Buttstock also is in fair condition with minor bruising. Leather sling is soft and pliable yet shows it’s age. Leather scope case is in excellent condition and a little dry in the hasp area. Bayonet shows very good, retaining better than 80% original blue with slight pitting in front of the blood groove. Leather sheath and frog are in good condition. (07-1256 / BK / BS) Curio. Est. $ 1250 - 2000.


Sold for $4,600 U.S.

Price includes auction house Buyer's Premium of 15-17%

Here are the original auction ads with winning bid results formatted in PDF file format, from the Poulin's Auction (click here) and James Julia Auction (click here) conducted March 7th - 11th, 2008.

Quote:

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Poulins Auction - March 7th, 2008

http://photos.imageevent.com/badgerd...202008.pdf.jpg
(Click PIC to read and save Adobe PDF File)
(Right Click on PIC and choose "Save Target As..." to download PDF file)
PDF file size = 429 Kb

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Quote:

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Poulins Auction - March 8th, 2008

http://photos.imageevent.com/badgerd...202008.pdf.jpg
(Click PIC to read and save Adobe PDF File)
(Right Click on PIC and choose "Save Target As..." to download PDF file)
PDF file size = 377 Kb

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Quote:

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Poulins Auction - March 9th, 2008

http://photos.imageevent.com/badgerd...202008.pdf.jpg
(Click PIC to read and save Adobe PDF File)
(Right Click on PIC and choose "Save Target As..." to download PDF file)
PDF file size = 438 Kb

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Quote:

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Poulins Auction Final Prices - March 2008

http://photos.imageevent.com/badgerd...ch2008.pdf.jpg
(Click PIC to read and save Adobe PDF File)
(Right Click on PIC and choose "Save Target As..." to download PDF file)
PDF file size = 377 Kb

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Quote:

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James Julia Auction Ads and Final Prices - March 10th & 11th, 2008

http://photos.imageevent.com/badgerd...202008.pdf.jpg
(Click PIC to read and save Adobe PDF File)
(Right Click on PIC and choose "Save Target As..." to download PDF file)
PDF file size = 3.74Mb

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Regards,
Badger

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Badger

Poulins Lot 2075. SMLE MK III Bolt Action Military Issue Repeating Service Rifle by London Small Arms Co., 1916 Sniper’s Rifle with Bayonet and Periscopic Prism Co. Telescope. Cal. 303. S# 1878. Overall condition is good plus. Bore is bright and shiny. Shows approx. 85% blue on receiver and front muzzle. Scope shows nearly all original enamel and blue. Has very clear optics. It is mounted on left side of receiver and is accompanied by a leather case. Upper hand guards are very good showing no significant gouges or cracks. Lower hand guard is fair, showing a significant amount of bruising and scraping. Buttstock also is in fair condition with minor bruising. Leather sling is soft and pliable yet shows it’s age. Leather scope case is in excellent condition and a little dry in the hasp area. Bayonet shows very good, retaining better than 80% original blue with slight pitting in front of the blood groove. Leather sheath and frog are in good condition. (07-1256 / BK / BS) Curio. Est. $ 1250 - 2000.

Sold for $4,600 U.S.

Price includes auction house Buyer's Premium of 15-17%

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In no particular order, here are the most immediate issues with this one (as I see them):

1) It is wearing a late 1930's (at the earliest) era beech straight profile forestock. SMLE snipers were withdrawn from service in around 1918-1919, so the odds a legit sniper was restocked in the late 30's and retained in sniper config are pretty much zero. It should be stocked in a hump-profile walnut stock.
2) The front receiver ring looks like it has been filed, re-stamped and cold blued. Note that it is a WW1 LSA gun. Originally it would have had a seriffed font serial number. I suspect the gun has been matched to the mount and scope because the latter are harder to alter.
3) Look at the date on the receiver ring. The last digit looks re-stamped, the area around it polished an probably cold blued. I suspect bubba had drilled a hole here which has been welded over, dressed, and cold blued.
4) Note the scope mount and the rifle serial number are the exact same font, probably the same stamps. This should NOT be the case. On originals, the scope mounts were added after the gun was made, not during production. Should be different fonts and a different stamp set. The scope serial number, however, looks unaltered to me.
5) Note that the stake marks for the base do NOT line up with the screw slots. They should, but they don't. At the very least, bubba has removed a mount base that was not intended to be removed. At worst, a standard SMLE has been humped up with a mount from another rifle.
6) The gun is wearing ww2 brit forestock, ww1 brit buttstock, inter-war brit front handguard and a ww2 era Lithgow coachwood rear handguard. It's dressed like a mutt.
7) The butt has a shooting club type owner's disc in it. It's been sanded. The sling swivel stands proud of the wood. I'm thinking the action is a restored sporter. Also accounts for the possible hole reweld on the receiver - was a target sight once installed?
8) An original ww1 LSA should have a milled rear sight protector with lightening cuts.
9) The date appears to be 1918. By 1918, the SMLE sniper had been largely replaced with P14 sniper variants. On a real SMLE sniper, I would expect a date no later than 1916. 1917 at the outside most - but not 1918.

I'm sure there are other issues, but the above would certainly halt me from spending $4600USD without looking much further.

In addition to Claven, I had a chance to purchase this rifle a few years ago at auction in New Zealand. Fortunately for me the auctioner voided all the postal bids due to a person on hand informing him that there were some DP marked parts on it. I should of known that the serial number is not a proper LSA number, but I was so excited to find one I put a big bid on her at the time. I lucked out and was saved a lot of money for a put together rifle.

Here's an interesting piece that was originally in the James Julia Auction. It appears like it never sold (perhaps didn't reach reserve set) and has now re-appeared in a Gun Broker auction for a German K98k Double Claw Mount Sniper Rifle (click here). NO Reserve set and it's started at $9,500 U.S. :D

Quote:

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Lot 355 $0.00 REVISED: 3/3/2008 - (Additional Information) Please Note :Consignor states that “This is the gun that is referenced on pg 261 in the book Backbone of the Wehrmact by Richard Law. This gun was part of the Robert Jensen collection and so noted”.

*MODEL 98 MAUSER TRANSITION RIFLE ARSENAL MODIFIED TO SNIPER. SN 4700h. Cal. 8 MM. Fine claw mount sniper with 24" bbl, made in 1938. It has standard 98 sights with an arsenal applied set of claw mount bases with orig mounts containing a Zeiss Zielvier about 4X scope with three heavy crosshairs and fine crosshair with dot. Mounted in standard laminated stock with eagle proofs on right side of butt. Accompanied by an orig leather sling & leather lens caps. CONDITION: Extremely fine, all matching numbered including cleaning rod & band spring. Metal retains virtually all of its fine orig factory finish with a flat spot on top of the receiver ring milled at the arsenal to accommodate scope base. Finish is just starting to turn plum. Stock is extremely fine with minor nicks and retains most of its orig factory finish. Mechanics are crisp, brilliant shiny bore, crisp optics. 4-31829 (12,000-15,000)

Attachment 2081 - Attachment 2082

Not Sold ;)

Price DOES NOT include auction house Buyer's Premium of 15-17%

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Regards,
Badger

Sorry for bringing up once again such an old thread, but rifle in post #36 turned up again, see here: Enfield Mk III .303 Sniper Rifle- WW I : Curios & Relics at GunBroker.com