Gentlemen:
Yes, I purchased the above rifle on Gunbroker. It "languished" there for 3 or 4 weeks, the seller started off with a reserve that was considerably higher, then gradually lowered it each time the auction renewed. There was always a bidder or two, but they never met his reserve. When I could no longer stand it, I called the seller, and met his reserve as the auction ended, while I was on the phone with him.
I would love to do some more photos, but I would have to wait until someone more computer savvy than I am (like any 10 year old kid) helps me. At this time, all I have are the Gunbroker photos, and I did save them!
I graced the G&H single lever mount, which fits perfectly, with a period Noske scope from Michael's estate, it looks good, and appropriate! I intended to install a Zielklein, but apparently I don't have an extra at the moment.
The rifle is stunning, the metal work appears impeccable, the full length rib appears to be machined integrally with the barrel, which, if that is the case, is no small feat. I will have Aaron Little look at the rib the next time I see him, and get his opinion about it and it's installation.
Newton 1311:
I was also thinking the trap door in the grip cap was an 03 trapdoor, but an 03 trapdoor measures right at 1" in diameter, this cap is .890". It is, however, made almost exactly the same as an 03 trapdoor. The entire grip cap differs from the Howe grip cap made from an 03 butt plate, this cap is .255 thick, the 03 grip cap would be approximately .100" thick. Mine has one screw hole in the front, and two blind pin holes in the rear. Howe's has 3 screw holes. In addition to the differences, it is marked GERMANY on the underside, so it appears factory made. The hole under the grip cap trap door perfectly fits the Lyman 48 aperture when a scope is mounted.
James:
I have always seen John Dubiel spelled Dubiel, not DuBiel.
I am still thinking Dubiel on the metal work. The quarter rib has "lightning" cuts, and quite a few of the Dubiels I have looked at have this feature. John Mead has a Dubiel on his website right now with very similar lightning cuts, AND a seemingly identical front sight hood release button.
Michael posted a Dubiel on Accurate Reloading with an identical grip cap, although his was engraved. Michael also shows an unmarked Dubiel 03 Springfield on page 99, Volume 2. While I am no authority (obviously) I am not aware of any unmarked later Hoffmans...................
I will attempt to post some links to these other rifles after this post.
Oh, I did send an email to Monte, and hopefully, I will get a reply, with his opinion.
Thanks for your thoughts and help.
