^Lot 2112 JP SAUER MODEL 98 SPORTING BOLT ACTION RIFLE.

Cal. 8x57mm (8MM Mauser, J variant). S# 167021 (27332). Bbl. 24 3/4" part round, part octagon with raised solid rib having top profile that is stepped near rear and tapered towards muzzle with decorative machined non reflective surface. Front sight is dovetailed (aligned with bore) brass bead; slot blank where multi leaf sight would normally appear. Receiver fitted with especially rare Lyman Model 50 receiver sight; introduced 1905 and not included in 1910 Lyman catalogue. Mfg. prior to WW-I and likely near 1900 with matching numbers of its Mauser military action (27332 on bottom of receiver) on entire bolt assembly, bolt release, sear assembly and floorplate. Sauer numbers on right side of receiver (167021), floorplate, floorplate lever, commercial trigger guard, wedge and both action screws; follower is not numbered. Configuration of rifle is similar to a Model B Mauser Sporter of Pattern 120 yet arguably of superior workmanship and with slimmer stock profile having wedge and reinforcing side panels to reduce stock impact from recoil. Checkered (only uncapped pistol grip area) European walnut stock with grooved horn buttplate and slim schnable forend. Sling swivels on barrel and butt of stock. Oval around wedge and circular initial disk on toe line behind swivel appear to be of German silver. Indexed triggerguard and buttplate screws with engraved heads plus tube support on rear screw. Receiver is finely blued with bordered non reflective panel over front bridge. Around rear of barrel is "FLUID STEEL KRUPP, ESSEN". Bottom of barrel flat has 167021, "7.8MM" and Crown N proof. Bore is .318" rather than .323"; 8MM J. CONDITION: very good plus metal surfaces with appearance of original finish having high edge wear plus noticeable floorplate wear from carrying. Stock has satin appearance as oiled with almost all finish removed as if by chemicals as it does not appear sanded; some original gloss near protected areas around receiver sight and bolt handle. Light to medium stock marks throughout with very good checkering. Near excellent wood to metal fit. Smooth functioning action and set triggers. No insect damage to buttplate. Slight damage to triggerguard screw slots plus front screw slightly beyond index point due to shrinking of stock with age. Good bright bore with wear and even light to moderate frosted appearance. (25-5046/NW). CURIO. $1,200-1,800.