Hi all. I have the chance to purchase a John Rigby Mauser in 338 Winchester Magnum. It has the look and feel of a high quality rifle, as it should, but I am at a bit of a loss as to what range of values would be fair to both a buyer and a seller. I would like to make an offer that would treat us both fairly. It is a normal 98 action with thumb cut. No scope mount and not drilled and tapped for mounts either. This is good since the safety and bolt handle would interfere with a scope! Since the 338 Win didn’t exist until the late 50’s this seems odd to me and would certainly reduce the rifles value, or at least the number of people interested in it. Any guidance from those with more experience than I have on express rifles? I’m not certain if an unscoped 338 is very useful.
Ask 'em at NitroExpress.com forum (Mausers).
The Rigby Company name has gone through several changes which affect the price significantly. I don't know the history well enough to say which ones are more desirable.
The rifle you described sounds like an oddball as most Rigby's have a straight bolt that can work with scope mounting. I have not seen any that used the military safety as is so this could have been at the request of the original buyer.
If I can't find comparables on the internet at places like Champlin's and Hollowell's I have had the rifle or shot gun appraised before purchase. Or if possible I see what offer a reputable gun shop would make to buy the rifle.
I have not seen any that used the military safety
I had an original (1909 manufacture) in 303 w express sights that had the original Mauser safety, but you are correct on the "oddball" because of the caliber. Good call on calling Champlin..
Rough guess is that you are looking at a John Rigby that was put together in California when US investors owned the name.
Does the rifle have "London" engraved anywhere on the barrel? A (true) Rigby made rifle would usually have this and that is where most of the value comes from.
A phone call or email to London with the serial number and details will get you the provenance of the rifle.
California made Rigby rifles do not typically carry the resale of London made rifles, from what I have seen.
Accurate Reloading or Nitro Express are good forums for info as well.
I don’t believe any London Rigby rifles were built in 338 Win especially without being set up for scopes.
Something not quite right.
The gun would have no important value unless it was an original .338 made in London, an unlikely combination. Rigby will tell you what you have.