Swedish Rolling Block “Gevar M/1889 Rifle..(F 1089) SOLD
Created on March 25th 2023
A Fine example of the Last of the Swedish Rolling Blocks
In fact a superb example of the Swedish Rolling Block which used the Norwegian smokeless powder cartridge which now in the UK ranks as a section 58 Obsolete calibre. Chambered in 8mm x 58R, this is either one of the last produced new rifles or an extremely fine conversion. The confusion lies in the dimensions; in that it measures exactly the same as a newly manufactured rifle in both overall length and barrel length, yet there are clearly some original markings which have become obscured as a result of later workings – I bow down to those of greater knowledge and await anything anybody can add! Anyway, whatever the final designation is, whoever takes a shine to this is going to be very happy. I can not see this rifle being inaccurate through function or performance – only the ballistics of the calibre could be a weak spot if there are any! .., if you cant hit anything with this its time to take up knitting…..
Presentation (condition) Full marks. An action which shows good case-colour hardening colours. Fine woodwork and a superb thick dark high shine blue to the barrel. The action is clean and fully functional, the main components finished in the white but highly polished. A positive trigger release and secure tight lock up in all stages. The bore is fine with strong rifling and no corrosion or pitting.
Overall the rifle measures 1240mm (49″) with a barrel of exactly 840mm (33.1/8″) These are the exact measurements for the rifle when made from scratch as an 8mm. Yet as mentioned above, some stampings have been obliterated with the addition of drillings for screws and threads. Also the action and barrel have multiple numerical markings on them. Lets start with the action. RHS between the two cross pins “H / 1873” Which to me intermates Husqvarna. On the LHS of the action I would venture is the original serial number of “2458” where the “2” is almost totally drilled through for an added screw. That number also appears on the buttstock about the wrist on the same side. The “2458” being repeated upon the tang of the butt-plate. Moving onto the knox form of the barrel: LHS vertical flat has “”6839” LHs 45 degree flat “2485”. Top or horizontal flat: “crowned C” for Carl Gustafs over “O.G. G.M. /2” and the barrel register mark. RHS 45 degree flat: “3268/92″over British Nitro Proofs and calibre. RHS vertical flat; “9319/91”. Many markings which usually indicates many trips back to the factory for improvements. In some cases there were three modifications to these rifles in their time all attracting different model designations. But, you have to hand it to them; this is the original attempt at recycling and reusing. The bright finished main hammer has the number “5070” on its LHS.
Stocked in a beautiful pale artic birch with a superb smooth finish and minimum signs of damage through use. The rifle has finger groves in the for-end beneath the rear sights. Full length woodwork which includes a grove and drilling for the full length cleaning rod stored under the blued barrel. Excellent ramp rear sight graduated from 300 to 600 meters on the LHS. With a flip-up ladder sight clearly graduated from 700 to 1600 meters. A push button slide which locks securely with open “V” type aiming point. Inverted V on a block fore sight with a screw adjustment for setting windage beneath the sliding pointer. On the of the integral front band is the original serial number of “2485.” A very interesting feature is visible on one of the most mundane parts of the rifle and could be easily explained as a stacking aid – an upward pointing open hook (that’s the best I can do !) See photo. However this in fact the front of a long distance volley sight. The ladder part of the rear sight has two “V” notches and protrudes of to the right – that’s the rear aiming point !
Underneath the muzzle is a square lug for fitting a bayonet. This rifle is in excellent condition and would grace any collection it becomes added to, either as purely a collectible or as a usable serious vintage rifle on the range.
No Licence required or add to Section One FAC.
Stock No’ F 1089
£ 1475. SOLD
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