Griffin and Howe heavy barrel M1903 target rifle

[Calfed]

I've come to believe that this rifle was built as a Wimbledon style "bull gun". I found this article about a Wimbledon "Bull Gun" made by Griffin and Howe for Ben Comfort, who won the 1935 Wimbledon match with it. Comfort's rifle was chambered in 300 H&H and was built on a Remington model 30 action, which bears a strong resemblance to a 1917 action. I've read, however, that prior to Comfort's Wimbledon cup win, most "Bull Guns" built for Wimbledon competition were chambered in 30.06 (like my rifle) and many were built on the 1903 action.



Griffin & Howe .300 H&H Magnum bull gun, Ben Comfort, 1935 Camp Perry Wimbledon Cup, engraved, inspired by Elmer Keith - Sportsman's Legacy, Fine firearms, related books and sporting collectibles. Representing estates, collectors and nonprofit conservation organizations.

The barrel profile, although chambered in 300 H&H mag rather than 30.06, appears to be very similar to mine.







Muzzle seems very similar to mine also.



Damascene markings on the bolt seem similar

[Surpmil]

The Model 30 is built from M1917 actions which explains the resemblance. The M17 is directly copied from the Pattern 14, which is directly copied from the Pattern 13, so there's the family history. Why Mauser never figured out how to build a proper safety I do not know, but RSAF Enfield certainly did.

Very handsome pieces to see, thanks.

[ArtPahl]

I have a half dozen model 30's and just got a 720 with the barrel date 6/'42--the last of the American Enfields. I like 'em all; and you're right about the safety.

[Calfed]

From what I've learned, prior to Ben Comfort using a rifle chambered in 300 H&H magnum, most bull guns were chambered in 30.06 (like my rifle) and based on a 1903 Springfield action.

I mounted a Lyman Super Targetspot on my rifle and comparing it to Ben Comfort's Wimbledon "Bull Gun" is what convinces me that is probably what my rifle was conceived as.