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1903 JOHN RIGBY & CO SPORTING BEST BOLT RIFLE - 9.3X62 - CASED
Guns International #: 103564758 Seller's Inventory #:
Category: Rigby Rifles - Rifles - African Dangerous Game Safari Magazine
Seller's Information
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Seller: FOXTROT - FRANCIS LOMBARDI
Company: FOXTROT
Member Since: 9/11/07
State: New York
Country: United States
Phone: (315) 373-5850
Phone2: (315) 689-0000
Premium Seller
Number of Active Listings: 115
Total Number of Listings: 953
Seller: FFL Dealer
Return Policy: 3 day inspection and return policy on used guns.
3 days
Payment Types Accepted: checks, money orders, wire transfer and credit card(4% card fee)
About Us: FRANCIS LOMBARDI AND SON ARE PURVEYORS OF FINE FIREARMS AND SPECIALIZE IN RARE AND UNIQUE FIREARMS THAT ARE BEST-IN-CLASS. US AGENT FOR KARL HAUPTMANN OF FERLACH, AUSTRIA, VERNEY CARRON OF FRANCE, SWAROVSKI OPTIKS, AND ELEY HAWK LTD SHOTSHELLS. WE PROVIDE FAIR AND HONEST REPRESENTATION OF ALL ITEMS OFFERED FOR SALE. FOXTROT IS A LICENSED IMPORTER OF FIREARMS. WE LOOK FORWARD TO YOUR CALL!
Description:
1903 JOHN RIGBY & CO SPORTING BEST BOLT RIFLE - 9.3X62 - CASED
MANUFACTURER - JOHN RIGBY & CO - LONDON, ENGLAND
MODEL - MAUSER SPORTING BEST
ACTION - MAUSER ACTION WITH 2-POSITION SAFETY
SN - 2184/6106
CALIBER - 9.3X62mm
CAPACITY – 4+1
LOP - 13.75"
WEIGHT - 6 LB 15.8 OZ
BARREL LENGTH - 25"
PRODUCED - 1903
SCOPE - 1" TIP OFF SCOPE RINGS
SIGHTS - STANDING REAR 100 EXPRESS SIGHT WITH FLIP UP LEAFS FOR 200, 300, 400 AND 500 - HOODED FRONT SIGHT
The John Rigby & Co. Mauser Sporting Rifle, produced in 1903, is a true example of a London “Best” rifle—combining the legendary Mauser action with Rigby’s refinement and finishing to create one of the most respected sporting arms of the early safari era. Chambered in 9.3x62mm, a cartridge often associated with early African hunting rifles of this type, it remains one of the most practical and effective medium-bore cartridges ever developed, prized for its balance of power, penetration, and manageable recoil.
Built on a Mauser bolt action with a 2-position safety, this rifle features a 25" barrel, 4+1 capacity, and the classic safari configuration of standing 100-yard express sight with additional flip-up leaves for 200, 300, 400, and 500 yards, paired with a hooded front sight. The inclusion of period-correct scope bases with newer rings allows for optic use while maintaining historical character. At 6 lb 15.8 oz, the rifle is notably light for its class, contributing to excellent handling in the field.
This example remains in very good overall condition, especially considering its 120+ year history. The bore is clear with strong rifling, the action cycles smoothly, and the trigger is crisp, with the rifle remaining mechanically excellent. The blued Mauser action and barrel are well preserved, showing only light wear consistent with careful use. The barrel is properly marked “John Rigby & Co. 72 St. James’s St. London”, and both the Rigby serial number (2184) and Mauser serial number (6106) are present, confirming its dual heritage. The rifle was rebarreled in Germany in 1937 likely done by Mauser.
The rifle retains classic safari features including Rigby-style hook sling swivels on both the stock and barrel. The walnut stock, finished in a traditional London red oil, displays beautiful grain with strong checkering on the round knob pistol grip and forend. It is fitted with an orange Silvers recoil pad, a common and desirable period upgrade.
The rifle is housed in a canvas and leather case with green felt interior, complete with a silver oil bottle, further enhancing its presentation and collectibility.
Please refer to the photographs for a detailed view of the overall condition.
A genuine Rigby “Best” bolt rifle from the golden age of safari, this piece represents the foundation of modern dangerous game rifles—offering historical significance, practical usability, and enduring appeal from one of London’s most prestigious makers.
FLAT $100 S/H/I. 4%CREDIT CARD FEE APPLIES.
FOXTROT IS A LICENSED FFL DEALER WITH MANY POSITIVE FEEDBACKS SO BUY WITH CONFIDENCE!
Price: $12,950.00
Curio/Relic: Yes
Rifle Caliber: 9.3x62mm