German Sauer 80 Grand African .458 Win. mag 24″ Bolt Action Rifle 1974 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,375.00
LSB#: LSB251010MN045
Make: J.P. Sauer & Sohn; Germany
Model: 80 Grand African
Serial Number: E5520
Year of Manufacture: 1974 (HE Date Code)
Caliber: .458 Winchester Magnum
Action Type: Bolt Action, fed by Detachable Magazine
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “458 Win. Mag. J.P. SAUER & SOHN / GMBH GEGRUNDET 1751”, with a Sauer stamp. The right side of the barrel is marked with two proof marks, and the “HE” date code. The left side of the receiver is marked “MADE IN W. GERMANY SAUER 80 / GRAND AFRICAN / JUDD ASS. / MADISON/CT.”, with two Sauer stamps. The right side of the receiver is marked with the serial number “E5520”.
Barrel Length: 24″
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a brass beaded blade, dovetailed to a serrated ramp, screwed to the barrel. The rear sight is an adjustable express style sight, on a ramp, screwed to the barrel. The top of the receiver is drilled and tapped for optics.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a one-piece checkered walnut stock, with a capped semi-pistol grip, fluted monte carlo comb with cheekpiece, vented rubber buttpad, and a tipped forend with sling rings front and rear. The LOP measures 14 1/4″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. The stock shows light wear, with only a few dings and scratches scattered throughout. The only major flaw is, there is a crack coming from the top tang that goes down the left side of the wrist. This crack may or may not be visible in the photos. Despite the crack, the stock fits tightly to the barreled action, with no play. The stock’s finish is intact, and the wood grain is attractive. Overall, the stock rates in Fair condition, due to the structurally compromising crack in the wrist.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: 1x 3rd factory magazine, in Good to Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion in the bore, but there is some light fouling present. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its original metal finish. The balance of the finish shows minor handling wear throughout the barrel, receiver, and action. The magazine shows light corrosion on the front, and the magazine floorplate and bottom metal on the rifle shows light scratches and minor dings. Otherwise, the bluing is deep and dark throughout. The markings are clear and legible. The screw heads are sharp. Overall, this rifle rates in Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly, as does the tang mounted safety. We did not fire this rifle, but we did perform a mechanic’s check. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with the magazine as mentioned above.
Our Assessment: Introduced during the golden age of European dangerous-game riflemaking, the J.P. Sauer & Sohn Model 80 “Grand African” stands as one of the finest commercial bolt-action rifles ever produced for heavy calibers. Built in 1974, as confirmed by the HE date code—, this rifle represents Sauer’s precision engineering at its peak, before the firm transitioned to later designs. The Model 80 action is renowned for its exceptional smoothness, controlled and reliable feeding, robust bolt geometry, and outstanding machining quality, making it a premium choice for professional hunters and experienced big-game sportsmen alike.
Chambered in .458 Winchester Magnum, the first true American dangerous-game cartridge introduced in 1956, this rifle offers formidable stopping power suitable for Cape buffalo, large bears, and other thick-skinned or dangerous animals. In a 24-inch barrel with a bright, sharp, erosion-free bore, this rifle is fully capable of delivering the deep penetration and reliable energy transfer the .458 Win. Mag. is designed for. The express-style rear sight paired with a bold brass-beaded front sight reinforces the rifle’s purpose; fast, instinctive target acquisition under the high stress of dangerous-game encounters.
Cosmetically, the rifle retains approximately 98 percent of its original deep blued finish with only light handling marks—excellent for a 50-year-old big-bore rifle. The walnut stock exhibits attractive figure and classic European styling; however, a significant crack at the wrist emanating from the upper tang does compromise structural integrity. While the stock currently fits tightly with no external play, such a crack should be professionally repaired before any field use, especially given the recoil generated by the .458 Win. Mag.
Mechanically, the action, safety, and detachable magazine all function correctly. With its exceptional bore, premium metallurgy, and high-condition metalwork, this Sauer 80 Grand African remains an outstanding example of German dangerous-game rifle craftsmanship, suitable for restoration, refinement, or as a centerpiece in a collection of big-bore sporting rifles. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – J.D.
