German Martini-Style .22 LR Single Shot Target Rifle & Redfield Sights, C&R
SOLD FOR: $2069
LSB#: 210926GY04
Make: Unknown, German
Model: Martini Action Custom Target Rifle
Serial Number: 24884
Year of Manufacture: 1891-1939 (based on proof marks)
Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
Action Type: Single Shot, Martini Action – Lever Actuated Pivoting Block with Set-Trigger
Markings: The right of the receiver and breech block each have crowned “B” and “U” proof marks. The buttplate is marked “24884” at the toe, found again on the front face of the receiver (concealed by the forend when installed). The receiver, lever and breech-block have extensive foliate relief engraving. The buttplate has decorative engraving. The right of the barrel is marked “SHOWALTER GUN SHOP WBASH IND 22 L.R”, it is unclear if this is an import mark or the barrel maker’s mark.
Barrel Length: 27 3/4″. The barrel tapers from approximately 1.03″ where it meets the receiver to approximately 0.94″ at the muzzle.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a Redfield globe-style sight with crosshair and aperture reticle installed attached to a sight block at the muzzle. The sight can accept interchangeable inserts, nine additional Lee Shaver inserts are included with an assortment of post, crosshair and aperture reticles. The top tang is drilled and tapped with a Redfield aperture sight installed, adjustable for windage and elevation.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece checkered walnut with semi-beavertail forend, semi-pistol grip, straight comb with European-style cheekpiece, steel buttplate and a sling swivel in the belly. The forend doesn’t appear to be original to the gun, having a different checkering style and fitting the barrel, which we believe is a replacement. The stocks have a few scattered scuffs and scratches, most notable on the forend. The forend has some slightly rough shaping at the rear on each side. There are some scattered spots of stubborn dark residue. There are no chips or cracks. The checkering is well defind. The LOP measures 13 7/8″ and 12 3/4″ from the fronts of the triggers to the back of the buttplate. The plate’s case color has mostly muted, though there is some color visible, and the plate shows light wear. Overall, the stocks are in about Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Blue & Case Color
Finish Originality: The barrel has been refinished or, more likely, replaced. The receiver’s finish appears original.
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 87% of its metal finish. The balance is mostly in scattered light surface oxidation and minor erosion in the barrel’s otherwise strong finish. The receiver’s case color is mostly strong with some wear on the top of the breech-block and infrequent minor oxidation. The lever has light handling wear in otherwise strong color. The action shows light operational wear. The screw heads are generally sharp. The top tang screw, which is threaded in the center for the rear tang sight screw, has a tool marked but serviceable slot. The markings are generally clear, the buttplate’s serial marking is shallow, but legible. Overall, this rifle is in about Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The trigger when set is extremely light and crisp, and the trigger is heavier, but still crisp when not set. The lever locks up properly. 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: Additional Lee Shaver globe sight inserts are included.
Our Assessment: The Martini action has a long and storied history, from the issue rifle of the British Empire at the end of the 19th Century to powerful game rifles, and, in this case, as some of the finest target rifles made. While a number of different makers have produced Martini action rifles, this example’s receiver appears to have been custom-built by a German gunsmith and has had a 27 3/4″ heavy barrel chambered for .22 Long Rifle and Redfield target sights installed. By all appearances, it’s a real shooter that will have lifetimes worth of use left in it. Those who can appreciate old-world quality will love this classically-styled rifle. Please see our photos and good luck!