Grossman Custom Sako?

Hi Folks!

I was fortunate today to pick up a beautiful custom Sako ...


Please forgive the poor photos. My strobe picked this evening to break down.

The barrel is stamped ...



I've found a few scant references to a Charlie Grossman gunsmith in Cincinnati, but can anyone provide any additional information?


Thanks in advance!
Dave

 

Nice looking rifle, and - wonder of wonders - unlike a lot of older customs, it doesn't have a gigundo Monte Carlo comb. Sorry, I can't help with Grossman, but from this example of his work, I'd say he knew what he was doing.

 

Thanks! I typically avoid customs, but this one just had a different look and feel, more modern, less Weatherby =)

For me, the biggest concern was the bore, but after a few quick patches, it looks to be at least OK ...



Again, from what little information I have, it may have been built by Charlie Grossman, who appears to have been active in the 1960s. When was the L579 action available?

Thanks!
Dave

 

The L579 was introduced in 1959 & Sako sold just the action in the white, which I remember Brownell's selling well into the 1970's. Lot's of gunsmiths made custom rifles based on all three Sako actions back in the day. If the serial number is under 115,300 you can find out when & in what configuration it left the factory by requesting our clubs Factory Records Service search the data.

 

Thanks! That does put it in the Charlie Grossman era. Alas, the serial number is 326946, which is well beyond the club's records.

Thanks again!
Dave

 

Here's a better photo ...

 

Fine looking custom. Has the bolt handle been reshaped?

 

I don't think so, but I don't say that with much confidence. I'd wait for one of the experts here to weigh in.

Thanks!
Dave