A Bubba'd M17 returned home

As a kid, I admired my Dad's "big rifle", as they were called back then. I remember him telling me it was a BSA, and I knew it was a 30-06 by the old Dominion ammo box with a few shells in it.

One day, in the late 1950's, he announced that he had traded the rifle in on a TV set. I was ten or so at the time, and had already developed a taste for firearms. I was disappointed, but what could I do.

Probably around ten years later, a friend and I were out at an older fellow's farm one evening, visiting. he told me, "I think I have your Dad's old rifle". He showed it to me, but declined to sell it.

The fellow since passed on and his son inherited the rifle. I asked him if he would sell it. No, he didn't think so, but would sure give me first chance if he did decide.

Lo and behold, in 2007, the son asked if I still wanted to buy that old rifle. Needless to say, it is now back home. "Back home" is literal, as I am now living in the house that my Dad built for his family in 1949.

The poor old thing has seen some use, and has been drilled for a scope. The son said it mustn't be drilled true, as it kept cracking mounts. No matter, it's back where it should be.:p

:super:

Most excellent :)

Must feel good, I know I grew up with "that big old black rifle" sitting in the gun cabinet and it never got fired. Lucky me he didn't sell it (he didn't want to because of the old "headspace" and "cracked receiver" myths) so when the old man passed on I was lucky enough to get his dang near pristine M1917 !!

Its really nice to see you get your legacy back home, share us some pics when you get the chance.

Dan

My first hunting rifle was a plain bubba'd 1917. I sent it to my brother when I went into the navy. I got it back two years ago. It is still a great shooter and I value it as much as one of my lend lease winchesters.
john