KIMBER from CLACKAMAS, Oregon in .416 Rigby

I recently acquired this gorgeous KIMBER. The only reason I am looking to sell it is that something else just became available that I really want and this would fund it.

The Kimber Model 89 African offered here is an original Clackamas, Oregon rifle, manufactured during Kimber of Oregon's highly regarded production era. These early Clackamas rifles are widely recognized by collectors and enthusiasts for their exceptional craftsmanship, controlled-round-feed Mauser-style action, excellent walnut stocks, and hand-fitted quality that is difficult to find in modern production rifles.

Unlike later Kimber firearms, the Clackamas rifles were built in relatively limited numbers and have developed a loyal following among collectors of classic American sporting rifles. The Model 89 African, chambered in the legendary .416 Rigby, represents one of Kimber's finest dangerous-game rifles and is sought after by both hunters and collectors.

Whether you're looking for a rifle to take on safari or a classic American firearm to add to a serious collection, an original Clackamas Kimber is an increasingly desirable and difficult-to-find piece of firearms history.

The rifle is fitted with Talley 30MM Lever Lock Rings. Metal, wood, and overall condition is excellent. Has only the slightest handling marks. Double square bridge, barrel banded Front Hooded Ramp Sight with Flip Moon feature. 9 pounds 1 ounce without scope. 24" barrel. CRF Mauser.

$7500 takes it. $100 shipping.

Gorgeous rifle

Absolutely stunning!

Yep. That's a classic rifle. Whoever takes her home should be proud. GLWS!!!

Wow that is nice!

Wow GLWS

This caught my eye on Guns Unlimited. To me, it’s the best looking bolt gun possible. Unfortunately, I neither had the $7k nor anything to shoot with it! Since you have it in your hands, what’s the story with the plum colored receiver? Is it an artistic choice by Kimber? I’ve been curious about it.

Love the plumb action, like some of the old tang safety Ruger (and many of their early single actions, Texas Longhorn Arms) I find it adds to the beauty and attraction of the weapon.

You seemed excited to score this one…can’t help but spur nosey curiosities what cool firearm you stumbled upon in the meantime. Do tell.

Basser2x said:

This caught my eye on Guns Unlimited. To me, it’s the best looking bolt gun possible. Unfortunately, I neither had the $7k nor anything to shoot with it! Since you have it in your hands, what’s the story with the plum colored receiver? Is it an artistic choice by Kimber? I’ve been curious about it.

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This from the world of Google.

Firearms "go plum" (turning from deep black to a purplish-red hue) because the steel alloy contains certain metals that react differently during the hot bluing process. When the metal's nickel, chromium, or high-carbon content alters the chemical balance, the bluing shifts from black to a purplish color.

The Science Behind the Shift

• • The Bluing Process: Bluing is a deliberate, controlled rusting process designed to create a protective layer (magnetite) over the steel.
  • Steel Alloys: Gun manufacturers use different steel mixtures for different parts (e.g., frames versus barrels).
  • The Chemical Reaction: If the steel alloy has higher amounts of nickel or chromium, the traditional salts used in the bluing bath don't yield a deep black. Instead, they cause the magnetite layer to reflect a purple, red, or "plum" color.

Why You See It on Specific Parts

• • Mismatched Parts: Often, you will see a firearm where the frame (receiver) has turned plum, but the barrel and cylinder remain perfectly black. This happens because the frame is cast or forged from a slightly different steel alloy than the barrel.
  • Age and Wear: Older firearms—such as older Ruger revolvers, Heckler & Kochs, or military surplus rifles (like Mausers)—are famous for this. The color change can also become more prominent as the protective finish wears down and is exposed to the elements or different cleaning oils over the years.

Is It a Defect?

While it was originally a manufacturing flaw or variation, "plum" firearms have become highly desirable in the collector's market. Because it is a result of the original factory steel and historical bluing batches, collectors view it as a unique characteristic rather than a defect.

Wildwillalaska said:

Love the plumb action, like some of the old tang safety Ruger (and many of their early single actions, Texas Longhorn Arms) I find it adds to the beauty and attraction of the weapon.

You seemed excited to score this one…can’t help but spur nosey curiosities what cool firearm you stumbled upon in the meantime. Do tell.

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I was and remain super excited about the rifle. Probably the prettiest rifle I own. But I do own another 416 Rigby (A Dakota African) and I have my eyes on a German Double Rifle - which I do not already own.

Well, if you’re going to sell what I think is arguably the prettiest bolt gun I’ve ever seen to buy that German double, it must really be something. Best of luck selling the Kimber and acquiring your double.

Basser2x said:

Well, if you’re going to sell what I think is arguably the prettiest bolt gun I’ve ever seen to buy that German double, it must really be something. Best of luck selling the Kimber and acquiring your double.

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The rifle is getting tons of compliments, but the German Double doesn’t happen until someone says”I’ll take the KIMBER.”

I made an account just to comment on this. Guns International says it is pending. Is it still available?

Brock said:

I made an account just to comment on this. Guns International says it is pending. Is it still available?

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Yes. I am the one that bought it on Guns International - they just haven't taken it down yet. Now I am selling it on the classifieds here so the purchase would be through me - not GI.

Includes $150-$200 set of rings

migrabill said:

I was and remain super excited about the rifle. Probably the prettiest rifle I own. But I do own another 416 Rigby (A Dakota African) and I have my eyes on a German Double Rifle - which I do not already own.

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If a certain 8x57, you should absolutely jump on it. Totally understand…I’ve suffered quite extensively from the double fever as late. Don’t regret it one bit either.

I think you know what I’m after. That’s the only reason I would sell a rifle this gorgeous.

I agree. Do what you can do to buy that double rifle because I’m shocked It’s still available.

Altitude sickness said:

I agree. Do what you can do to buy that double rifle because I’m shocked It’s still available.

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Well why don’t you buy this so I can buy that?!

Wow.