I just picked up a Lowell Manley custom .375 H&H on a pre-64 action. The gun is absolutely gorgous. Anyone know of this outfit? Any info would be greatly appreciated.

Maineguide

I believe they were located in Michigan someplace. I think the name was Lowell Manley Shooters Supply.

I know they made custom rifles. But they also offered a service whereby they would "customize" your factory rifle by reshaping the stock if it was to clubby and also recutting or completely redoing the checkering, as well as some accuracy work, and adding custom sights, etc.

Why don't you take a photo of that rifle and put it on here so we can all judge for ouselves how beautiful it is???

Ditto everything 22 said. Lowell Manley made some very nice looking rifles and did it at reasonable cost.

22WRF has it right. In the late 70's or early 80's, there was a write up in GUNS magazine on him. It was about him reshaping the Ruger M77 and they were nice! I contacted him when I got my early M77 RSM and wanted him to do his stock reshaping for me. At that time he was no longer doing it. I can't remember the exact time, but I had one of the very first 416's that was manufactured, so that might give you a better time line.

Thanks guys.

They were in Deckerville Michigan and the other guy that worked with Lowell was named Ted Nicklas, who I think was the stockmaker.

quote:

Originally posted by 22WRF:
They were in Deckerville Michigan and the other guy that worked with Lowell was named Ted Nicklas, who I think was the stockmaker.

Hey, that's about 25 miles from me.

I remember seeing his ads for bolt jewelling and stock work in the Shotgun News a long time ago.

Next time I'm over that way I nose around a little.

Unfortunatly, Lowell Manley passed away about 4 years ago. He was a great enthusiastic rifle
man, and had a large collection of old double
rifles. I spoke with him on many occasions,
and he was always free with advice and help.
His knowledge was vast. His wife indicated
the company would continue, but I don't know
if that has occurred. Those who live close
to their company should see if they are still
in business. He will be missed.