Another of my English Retailed Mannlichers. This one a 1903, 6.5x54 “ take down” (removable stock) Model.
Proof stamps indicate 1929 was its Birthday. It has English proof marks commensurate with the period.
It sports some extra “Bells and Whistles”, such as pop up peep in the grip, the neat little grip cap trap ( minis its spare sight), gold inlaid safe and initialled escutcheon.
The trap in the butt is missing the cleaning rod as they often are, but I do have a replacement on the way.
Its Holland & Holland history is a little cloudy. Holland’s typically numbered the scope rings to the inventory number, and this rifle is no exception.
Holland’s inform me that this number is in a range where little information is available. More research required.
It has a nice blend of English influence and detail .The Holland & Holland mounts are amongst the best, looking as good and appropriate today as they did in 1930. Some things are timeless.
The Nickel Supra scope has brilliant clear optics still.
The bore is a little dark along its length, but has produced a best group of 1.3 inches to date with the long penetrating 160 gr Horned, and Woodleigh bullets. More work to do yet. The appropriate for Holland & Holland single trigger is a little on the heavy side, but reliable and crisp.
No refinishing is evident to wood or metal. It is a nice honest example, all numbers matching and nice patina overall. Regreatbley its without its case.
With 100 brand new Norma cases costing around $120, and very popular 6.5 bullets in plentiful supply…. what’s not to like.
I hope the pictures are of interest to Mannlicher officiardos and collectors alike.

Best
Eric

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