April 24-25, 2019 Extraordinary, Sporting, & Collector Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/25/2019
John Dubiel was the manager of the old Hoffman Rifle Company and it appears that after their demise, he took over from them, and continued their serial number sequence. He was a first class stock maker, as is evident in this fine rifle. Dubiel serial number 765, one of the highest numbers known, as related by Michael Petrov in "Custom Gunmakers of the 20th Century, Volume II". It has 22" lightweight barrel fitted with integral quarter rib holding three folding leaf express rear sight, and silver bead in sleeved-on ramp with hood. Top of barrel is marked "MADE BY JOHN DUBIEL". Unmatted portions of quarter rib are marked "CAL. 257" and "NO 765". KAR 98 small ring Mauser action retains military trigger and bottom metal. A Model 70 style bolt handle has been installed along with a Buehler low scope safety. Action is drilled and tapped for Redfield one piece base holding Unertl 4 X hunting scope with crosshair and post reticle. Nicely streaked European walnut steel capped pistol grip stock exhibits classic styling with right hand shadow line cheekpiece, well cut point pattern checkering at grip and around forend, and horn forend tip. It measures 13 - 1/2" over ribbed steel buttplate. Rifle is equipped with brown sling in QD Model 70 type loops. Weight with scope: 9 lbs. 0 oz. CONDITION: Excellent, appears original. Metal retains nearly all of a purple hued rust blue. Bolt retains most damascing on body, knob considerably silvered. Stock retains nearly all of what appears to be its original hand rubbed oil finish. Scope is excellent, optically clear. Bore is excellent. PROVENANCE: Estate Collection of Francis Brown. MGM 110.