Colt Sauer Sporting Rifle Short-Action .243 Winchester Bolt Rifle, MFD 1975

SOLD FOR: $3,286.11

WOA#: WY240405JS002

Make: J.P. Sauer & Sohn, made for Colt

Model: Sauer Sporting Rifle

Serial Number: CR6973

Year of Manufacture: 1975 (https://www.colt.com/serial-lookup/)

Caliber: .243 Winchester

Action Type: Bolt Action Rifle fed by Detachable Magazine

Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO., HARTFORD, CT. U.S.A.”, the left “Cal. 243 Win.” and the right with German proof marks. The left of the receiver is marked “COLT SAUER / SPORTING RIFLE” and with the serial number. The bolt body and bolt handle are serial-matching with German proofs.

Barrel Length: Approximately 23 1/2” (60cm).

Sights / Optics: There are no provisions for iron sights on this rifle. The top of the receiver is drilled and tapped with two-piece bases and 1″ rings installed.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a checkered walnut with rosewood nose and grip caps, monte carlo comb with cheekpiece, rampant colt inlay on the grip cap, ventilated black rubber Colt Sauer recoil pad and sling studs front and rear. The stock has only a few scattered minor marks. The checkering is well defined. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 13 1/2″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the recoil pad. The pad has minor wear and remains fairly supple. Overall, the stock is in Fine-plus condition.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore, but there is some stubborn copper fouling. In this writer’s opinion, this bore rates 9 out of 10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 99% of its metal finish. There is no notable wear or damage, only light handling marks. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle is in Excellent condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this firearm. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with a single 3-round magazine.

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 Sporting Rifle in several action lengths. This rifle is a short-action chambered in .243 Winchester, featuring a unique non-rotating bolt makes cycling this rifle smoother than most. The .243 is a great quarter-bore cartridge based on the .308 Winchester case, suitable for most small-medium game. This rifle is well preserved with a great bore and nearly pristine aesthetic. This will make a great addition to your collection or a classy new hunting rifle. Please see our photos and good luck in your bidding!

Please forgive any typos, I was educated in California. -Bud