Mauser M98 Diplomat .416 Rigby Grade 9 Walnut | Africa Proven | Certified Safari-Ready™
Guns International #: 103629609 Seller's Inventory #: MSFA26-018
Category: Rifles - African Dangerous Game Safari Magazine - Rifles - European Sporting

Seller's Information
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Verified Seller
Seller: MS&FA
Company: Mackey Safari & Fine Arms International
Member Since: 1/21/24
First Name: Stephen
Last Name: Mackey
State: Montana
Zip: 59754
Country: United States
Phone: (406) 988-8531
Platinum Seller
Number of Active Listings: 15
Seller: FFL Dealer
Return Policy: 3 day inspection and return policy on used guns.

Payment Types Accepted: Cash, ACH, Checks, Certified Checks, Credit Cards

About Us: Mackey Safari & Fine Arms International offers a carefully selected collection of fine sporting arms chosen for their craftsmanship, aesthetics, and safari readiness. MS&FA was founded to bring together firearms that strike a rare balance—expertly made, visually compelling, and built to be carried into the field. Each piece is evaluated thoughtfully and represented honestly, with an emphasis on condition, function, and readiness. Whether a rifle’s future is on safari, at the range, or in a serious collection, our standard remains the same. We also actively acquire high-quality sporting rifles and curated collections, with a focus on classic safari calibers, fine doubles, and bespoke bolt-action rifles. Discreet inquiries are welcomed.


Description:
Mauser M98 Diplomat .416 Rigby
Grade 9 Walnut | Africa Proven | Certified Safari-Ready™
Offered here is a scarce Mauser M98 Diplomat chambered in the legendary .416 Rigby—a refined but thoroughly practical dangerous-game rifle combining classic Mauser reliability with exceptional walnut and proven field performance.
Originally purchased new in 2024, this rifle represents the traditional African safari rifle in one of its purest modern forms. Built on the renowned controlled-round-feed Mauser M98 Magnum action, the rifle features a 24-inch barrel, island express rear sight, barrel band front swivel, ramped adjustable front sight, and a beautifully proportioned walnut stock configured specifically for dangerous-game hunting. The rifle measures 14 3/8” length of pull and weighs approximately 11.5 pounds with scope installed, providing excellent recoil management and steady offhand handling for the .416 Rigby cartridge.
What immediately distinguishes this rifle is its exceptional Grade 9 walnut. The stock displays striking mineral contrast and flowing marblecake figure throughout while maintaining strong grain structure through the wrist for durability under heavy recoil. Fine wraparound checkering remains sharp and well executed, and the stock architecture provides excellent balance and natural offhand handling.
The controlled-round-feed M98 action incorporates a massive claw extractor, fixed blade ejector, and three-position safety, delivering the reliability demanded in a true dangerous-game rifle. Feeding and cycling are exceptionally smooth.
This rifle is not merely a presentation piece—it is a proven field rifle with documented African hunting history, having successfully taken Cape buffalo, hippopotamus, and multiple plains game species. The rifle has also demonstrated outstanding accuracy, consistently shooting Barnes factory ammunition at sub-MOA levels, an uncommon level of precision for a .416 Rigby dangerous-game rifle.
The .416 Rigby remains one of the most respected dangerous-game cartridges ever developed, offering exceptional penetration, authority, and reliability on buffalo, elephant, and large game while maintaining manageable recoil relative to its performance. It continues to represent one of the finest all-around dangerous-game calibers in existence.
Condition remains very fine overall, with the metal retaining approximately 98–99% original finish. The stock shows a few light handling marks consistent with one African safari and careful field use. Mechanically excellent with crisp checkering, smooth feeding, and an excellent bright bore.
Mauser Diplomat rifles are seldom encountered on the secondary market, particularly high-grade examples in .416 Rigby with exceptional walnut and documented African field use. Examples of this quality and configuration rarely available.
Rifle is being offered without scope. However, a new Swarovski Z6i premium safari optic is available separately at additional cost.

Specifications:
• Manufacturer: Mauser
• Model: M98 Diplomat
• Caliber: .416 Rigby
• Barrel Length: 24"
• Length of Pull: 14 3/8"
• Weight: Approx. 11.5 lbs with scope installed
• Action: Controlled-round-feed Mauser M98 Magnum
• Sights: Island express rear sight with hooded front sight
• Features: Barrel band front swivel, ebony forend tip
• Stock: Grade 9 walnut with shadowline cheekpiece
• Scope: Swarovski Z6i available separately
• Condition: Very fine overall
Certified Safari-Ready™
This rifle has been evaluated under our Certified Safari-Ready™ protocol.
Each Certified Safari-Ready™ firearm is test-fired to confirm safe operation, reliable feeding and extraction, proper safety engagement, and practical hunting accuracy.
Sights, mounts, and optics—when present—are inspected for correct installation and field suitability. The rifle’s overall configuration is reviewed to ensure it is appropriate for demanding dangerous game conditions.
The designation signifies that the rifle has been professionally assessed and prepared for immediate field use. Certified Safari-Ready™ reflects the rifle’s condition and function at the time of evaluation.
Video walk-throughs available by appointment.
Shipping and insurance is an estimate only. Final cost will be determined based on destination, declared value, and method of shipment. Adult signature required.
 

Price: $17,450.00

Rifle Caliber: .416 Rigby
Manufacturer: Mauser
Model: M98 Magnum Diplomat
Serial Number: MM001501
Barrel Length: 24
Condition: Very Fine
Metal Condition: Very Fine
Wood Condition: Very Fine
Bore Condition: Excellent
LOP: 14 3/8
Weight: 11.5
Sights: Express