GUN SPRING 2017
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/11/2017
EXTRAORDINARY KESSLER MARTINI SCHUETZEN RIFLE OF THE HIGHEST QUALITY.KESSLER BIEBERMARTINI SCHUETZEN69068.15x46Cal 8.15x46R. Kessler Martinis are fairly common but in this quality exceptionally rare. Bbl 29-1/2" fitted with a cleaning rod. There is what appears to be a spacer between the action and the bbl and there is a possibility that a new bbl was fitted during its period of use, as the style of the rifle appears to be earlier. The bbl sight is missing but the correct front and rear sights are present. The rear sight is engraved on the base to match the rifle's engraving, it also has internal adjustments for various apertures. The action shows deep relief engraving of indescribable quality. It is more carved, in deep relief, than engraved. The bottom of the action depicts a hunter in traditional dress. The engraved trigger guard is inlaid with the owner's initials in a gold ornate monogram. The bbl is fluted and made of Prima Kruppscher Flusstahl, a high quality Krupp bbl steel and marked with the retailers name "AD. Bieber Kronach". Top of the bbl is fully matted. The right side of the buttstock is extensively carved with a shooter and a target boy holding up a winning target. The left shows a shooter in full Bavarian outfit, cheering a shot. The panel, in very deep carving, is surrounded by a mountain and country scene. Just superior carving throughout. The buttplate is nicely engraved with a winged cherub. PROVENANCE: "Classic German Target Arms" pgs. 26 -30; The Allen Hallock Schuetzen Collection. CONDITION: Bluing on the fluted bbl is excellent. The stocks are fine with no apparent chips or dents. Bore is excellent. Finish on the buttstock is excellent with just the most minor handling marks. 50900-8 TWR (8,000-12,000)