Kimber of Oregon Model 82 .22 Kilbourne K-Hornet Bolt Action Rifle, MFD 1980-1991
SOLD FOR: $1,979
LSB#: 200123CP56
Make: Kimber of Oregon
Model: 82
Serial Number: KH48
Year of Manufacture: 1980-1991
Caliber: .22 K-Hornet (Kilbourn Hornet)
Action Type: Bolt Action, Removable Magazine Fed Rifle.
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “KIMBER OF OREGON, INC., CLACKAMAS, OREGON. U.S.A.” and the left is marked “CAL 22K HORNET”. The left of the receiver is marked with the serial number, a Kimber logo and “MODEL 82”. The underside of the bolt handle is hand-scribed “KH / 48”.
Barrel Length: 22”
Sights / Optics: The top of the receiver is grooved for mounting optics (none included). There is no provision for iron sights.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is checkered walnut with darker wood nosecap, pistol grip wtih metal cap, straight comb, checkered steel buttplate and sling studs front and rear. The stock has a few scattered light compressions and handling marks, the most notable on the left of the comb. The checkering is sharp. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 13 5/8″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The plate has minor wear at the heel and toe with sharp checkering. Overall, the stock is in about Fine-Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 95% of its metal finish. Most of the balance is in light surface oxidation in the receiver, most notable on the left in front of the bolt release which appears to have seen some scrubbing. The bolt shows light operational wear. The bolt sleeve has a plum hue. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle is in about Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this rifle. As with all previously owned firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: The rifle comes with a single 4-round magazine. The magazine has faint operational wear, intact feed lips and a strong spring, in Excellent condition.
Our Assessment: Founded in 1979, Kimber of America swiftly developed a reputation for high quality rifles, predominantly due to their Model 82 rimfire rifles. Made in a variety of configurations, the Model 82 developed a well-deserved reputation for accuracy and was also introduced in some popular center-fire .22 and .17 calibers. This example is a fairly scarce configuration chambered for the .22 Kilbourne Hornet. Lysle Kilbourn was a prominent New York gunsmith who created this wildcat from the .22 hornet by moving the shoulder forward to increase case capacity and achieve higher velocities and greater energies than the original .22 Hornet. The cartridge still has a dedicated following among varmint hunters and when married with a Kimber 82 it makes for a very cool rifle. This rifle has a great bore, strong mechanics, and a vintage style and should make someone a great shooter. Just add the scope of your choice, and you’ll have a fantastic target or varmint rifle. Please see our photos and good luck!