Cooper Firearms Model 38 Varminter .22 K Hornet 24″ Bolt Action Rifle 2000
SOLD FOR: $1925
LSB#: 21116RB03
Make: Cooper Firearms
Model: 38 Varminter
Serial Number: VKH30
Year of Manufacture: 2000 (Test Target)
Caliber: .22 K Hornet (Kilbourn Hornet)
Action Type: Single Shot Bolt Action Rifle
Markings: The left side of the receiver is marked with the serial number at the breech and “Cooper Arms Model 38” at the midsection. The left side of the barrel is marked “COOPER FIREARMS OF MONTANA, INC., STEVENSVILLE, MT USA” and “22 KHNT” on the chamber. The underside of the bolt handle is hand-marked “VKH / 30”.
Barrel Length: 24”
Sights / Optics: There is no provision for iron sights. The top of the receiver is installed with a pair of bases.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is AA Claro walnut with a checkered pistol grip, straight comb, solid black rubber buttpad, and a beavertail forend. There are one or two faint compressions that are hardly noticeable. There are a few little tiny nicks on the front of the comb, likely from removal of the bolt. There are light handling marks. The checkering is sharp. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures approximately 13 3/4” from the front of the trigger to the back of the solid black rubber basketweave buttpad. The recoil pad exhibits light wear. The stock rates in about Excellent overall condition.
Type of Finish: Matte Blued with Matte Stainless Barrel
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 few little scuffs on the barrel that have caused minor smooth spots, the most noticeable are on the top at the barrel address. There is standard operational wear. There are some light handling marks. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are deep. Overall, this rifle rates in about Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The trigger is light and crisp. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Included are a test target and manual.
Our Assessment: This is a Model 38 Varminter bolt action rifle from Cooper Firearms of Montana. Cooper made their way into the rifle market producing high-quality rifles at “affordable” prices, though their quality means that affordable is in relation to rifles such as Blaser, Dakota and other high-end manufacturers. Beginning in 1990 a handful of former employees from Kimber of Oregon, with over 50 years in combined experience, set out to design and build the finest production rifles made in the United States. They have been known as one of the top makers of bolt action rifles ever since. This example has a 24″ barrel chambered for .22 Kilbourn Hornet, beautiful AA Claro walnut stock, and a matte blued & stainless finish. Developed by gunsmith Lysle Kilbourn, the cartridge is based on the standard .22 Hornet, but with a steeper shoulder a little further forward, giving the case more capacity for powder and allowing higher velocities. This is a gorgeous rifle that will make short work of paper targets and varmints alike. Please see our photos and good luck!