June 25-28, 2018 Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/25/2018
The Hoffer-Thompson gallery practice rifle was designed for use as a sub-caliber practice/training rifle for the U.S. Army. Production began in 1907 and continued through about 1919 with a total of 15,525 rifles produced. The design was by Maj. J.E. Hoffer with modifications to the cartridge adapter by Maj. J.T. Thompson. It was initially designed to use the .22 Long cartridge but later modified for the .22 Short cartridge. With the adoption of the Model 1922 Gallery Practice rifle, the majority of these Hoffer-Thompson rifles were either destroyed or re-configured to service rifles. This very rare rifle has all the outward appearances of a standard issue 1903 service rifle with barrel marked “SA / 3-15” with flaming bomb in middle below front sight. Rear sight is a 2,400 yard Buffington-style sight. Chamber markings are standard for the 1903 with rear bridge stamped “22”. The bolt lug also is stamped with a tiny “22” as is the bottom of the bayonet lug. The front tip of the forestock is also stamped “22”. Trigger guard and floorplate are standard machined steel with trigger guard front tang marked “N.R.A.” with a flaming bomb. Mounted in a straight grain uncheckered American one piece walnut stock with grasping grooves and straight grip with checkered steel buttplate that has trap containing a nickeled brass tube/cleaning kit/oiler. It has full length upper handguard secured with front split band/bayonet lug with stacking swivel and a grooved lower band with sling loop and a corresponding sling loop in buttstock. Left side of wrist has a crisp “J.S.A.” cartouche in a rectangle while bottom of wrist does not have the “P” inspector proof, only has a number “30”. Accompanied by 25 original Hoffer-Thompson sub-caliber adapters and an original unloading punch with turned wooden handle. Also included in an original US Government .22 cleaning rod for the Hoffer Thompson. Fine condition. Metal overall retains a smooth even blue-brown patina with light sharp edge wear. Wood is sound showing light to moderate wear with light handling and use marks and overall retains a hand worn patina on the armory oil finish. Mechanics are fine.
Accessories
Ammo, Tool & Cleaning Rod