There is a tremendous amount of work in that piece and beautifully done. Not something I want or need but I can recognize a masterpiece when I see it. Thanks for posting that.
Posts: 5603 | Location: Eastern plains of Colorado | Registered: 31 October 2005
James D. Julia Inc., auctioneer for this unique rifle, provided some interesting background facts:
J.T. Smith, a former U.S. Marine and CIA employee, scratch-built several firearms over the years but this was his apex (finest rifle). Mr. Smith… required that his guns have form, function and beauty. This rifle was built in Mr. Smith’s home shop with a standard Bridgeport milling machine and an antique lathe along with much hand work. Some of the processes, such as bluing, heat treating, casting the bronze fore-arm and applying the classic bronze patina were outsourced, but all of the machine work was done by Smith. He built the rifle to weigh under the 65-pound limit so that it could compete in heavy benchrest rifle shoots. J.T. Smith also created a micrometer adjustable front rest for this rifle. The rest has three tapered arms emanating from a ball shape with screw-adjustable feet and a spirit level. Accompanying this fine rifle and rest is a magnificent set of tools in a fitted walnut case.
Nice write up about the history.
Posts: 1286 | Location: N.J | Registered: 16 October 2004
