Colt Sauer Model Sporting Rifle .30-06 Sprg 24″ Bolt Action Rifle MFD 1978

SOLD FOR: $2000

LSB#: 210211SR05

Make: J.P. Sauer & Sohn for Colt

Model: Colt Sauer Sporting Rifle

Serial Number: CR18795

Year of Manufacture: 1978 (HJ Date Code)

Caliber: .30-06 Sprg.

Action Type: Bolt Action with Removable Magazine

Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “Cal. 30-06 SPGFLD”. The left side of the receiver is marked “CR18795”, “COLT SAUER / SPORTING RIFLE”, with circled rampant colt and J.P. Sauer logos. The top of the barrel is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO., HARTFORD, CT. U.S.A.” The right side of the receiver is marked “Made in W. Germany / by J.P. Sauer & Sohn”. The right side of the barrel is stamped with a German eagle over “N” proof and a Colt triangle “VP” proof. The underside of the bolt handle is marked with an eagle over “N” proof and “18795”.

Barrel Length: 24”

Sights / Optics: There is no provision for open sights. The top of the receiver is installed with a pair of bases and rings holding a Leupold 3-9×40 VARI X-II scope. The scope has some scattered spots of stubborn residue mainly on the right side. There are some light handling marks. The scope has a duplex reticle and the glass is clear, in about Fine Plus condition.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is one-piece checkered walnut with darker wood nose and grip caps, pistol grip, monte carlo comb with cheekpiece, ventilated black rubber Colt Sauer recoil pad and sling studs front and rear. The grip cap has an inlaid rampant colt medallion. There is some wear around the rear sling stud. There are a few little compressions and draglines. The compressions are very few, the most noticeable are by the bolt handle but are small. The checkering is sharp. The LOP measures 13 1/2″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the recoil pad. The pad is still supple with minor wear. Overall, the stock is in about Excellent condition.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 97% of its metal finish. There are a couple tiny marks on the barrel, hardly noticeable. The receiver shows light handling marks. The bolt has a couple spots of dark discoloration from previous oxidation and the handle has a few little scuffs and tiny marks into the finish. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle is in about Excellent condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly and smoothly. The trigger is crisp. There is a loaded chamber indicator on the left of the chamber ring. We have not fired this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with a 3-round Colt Sauer magazine and the previously described scope. The magazine shows a couple small spots of finish loss from previous oxidation, light frost, and some little marks through the finish. The mag rates in about Very Good-Fine condition.

Our Assessment: From 1974 to 1985, Colt contracted J.P. Sauer and Sons to make a high quality bolt action rifle and Sauer came through, manufacturing the Colt Sauer in several action lengths. This is a standard action model chambered in .30-06 Springfield. The unique non rotating bolt makes cycling this rifle smoother than most. Chambered in the popular .30-06 cartridge, this rifle is suitable for hunting most game in North America. The rifle retains about 97% of its metal finish, a great bore, and an attractive stock. This will make a great addition to your collection. Please see our photos and good luck!