Custom Neidner Remington 1901 .22 Hornet Rolling Block Target Pistol, C&R
SOLD FOR: $2,825.00
LSB#: LSB251215MW002
Make: Remington Arms Co., Reworked By Neidner Rifle Corp.
Model: 1901 Target Pistol
Serial Number: 1985
Year of Manufacture: 1901 – 1909 (Reworked by Neidner in 1935) / C&R
Caliber: .22 Hornet
Action Type: Single shot rolling block with extractor.
Markings: The left side of the frame has the Remington 1866 rollmark with a “P” proof. The receiver tang is marked with the serial number, “1985” along with a Neidner number, “1174”. The underside of the barrel is marked, “1272 C.B.” (Carlyn Behrman). The top of the barrel is marked, “NEIDNER RIFLE CORP DOWAGIAC.MC”. The scope is marked, “GERMANY / Zielklein”.
Barrel Length: 10”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a partridge style blade pinned to a barrel mounted base. The rear sight is a micro-adjustable square notch leaf screw set to the barrel. The barrel has QD mounts with a Carl Zeiss Zielklein scope mounted to it.
Stock Configuration & Condition: This pistol has a two piece checkered walnut set with a schnabel forend, and flared bottom pistol grip. There are light scratches, pressure dents, and wear throughout. There are no cracks, but there are some minor chips. The checkering is mostly smooth. Overall this furniture set rates in Very Good overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blued, Case Color
Finish Originality: Original to Neidner Rework
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is faint erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 70% of its metal finish. There is thinning and moderate patina throughout. The frame retains much of its case color. There are light spots of surface rust forming throughout. The screw heads are mostly sharp with some lightly tooled slots, and the pins are undamaged. The markings are somewhat clear with many having faded from the rework. Overall, this pistol rates in about Good to Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this pistol. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Leather case, paperwork.
Our Assessment: This custom Remington Model 1901 rolling block target pistol was reworked by Neidner Rifle Corporation in 1935, placing it squarely within the golden age of American custom gunmaking. Adolph Otto Neidner was one of the most respected rifle smiths of the early 20th century, known for his precision work, innovative cartridges, and finely executed sporting and target arms. His shop in Dowagiac, Michigan produced highly refined custom firearms, often built on classic actions such as the Remington rolling block. The conversion of this pistol to .22 Hornet reflects Neidner’s forward-thinking approach, as the cartridge itself was developed in the late 1920s and quickly became popular for small game and varmint shooting due to its accuracy and efficiency. This pistol is chambered in .22 Hornet, a cartridge introduced in the late 1920s and widely regarded for its high velocity and flat trajectory in a small caliber platform. The bore is bright with sharp rifling and only faint erosion present, earning a rating of 9 out of 10. The pistol retains approximately 70 percent of its metal finish with visible thinning, moderate patina, and scattered light surface oxidation. The case-colored frame still shows strong color, adding visual contrast and appeal. The walnut grips remain in Very Good condition with light wear, minor chipping, and softened checkering from handling over time.
This pistol features a Carl Zeiss Zielklein scope mounted via quick-detach mounts, complementing the precision-oriented nature of the build. The screw heads remain mostly sharp with some light tool marks, and the pins are undamaged. The markings are present though some have softened from refinishing and use. The pistol includes a leather case and paperwork. Overall, this Neidner reworked rolling block stands as a highly collectible custom target pistol, combining a historic Remington action with the craftsmanship of one of America’s premier early gunsmiths. -R.E.