After two years in construction, I am happy to announce the Safari Club International 50th Anniversary Commemorative rifle/pistol set is complete.
We have built some unbelievable firearms in the past, but this pair of firearms is definitely the pinnacle for me and my team.
The rifle, with its one-of-a-kind extensive fleur-de-lis-themed custom metalwork throughout, made a great canvas for master engraver Mike Dubber to create his best work to date.
I especially like the four brilliant inlaid diamonds in the tip down fleur crossbolt heads. The use of precious stones in conjunction with 24k gold and platinum throughout both firearms really elevates them to a new level.
Another key element of building a world-class rifle is designing and executing a unique checkering pattern. Creating such a pattern that accentuates the crisp stock lines and follows the overall theme of the rifle is an enormous challenge.
Once again, my father, John Bolliger Sr., hit it out of the park with this one. His talents with a checkering tool are truly remarkable. It was such a pleasure to have him back in the shop working side-by-side with me again on this great project.
I also congratulate SCI on its 50th Anniversary. Mountain Riflery has attended the annual SCI convention and has worked with SCI on several record-breaking rifle projects over the course of a few decades.
It has been such a pleasure to work with the dedicated staff of SCI on the front lines, helping preserve hunters’ rights around the globe. Now that I have young grandchildren of my own, it concerns and motivates me even more to help ensure they will have the same opportunities I had as a young hunter.
The most important part of SCI or any other organization is its membership. Without you none of this is possible. Many of you reading this article are my dearest friends and colleagues, but we are all united in our mission to maintain our outdoor way of life.
I am so grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this amazing 50th Commemorative rifle project. I also want to thank a few of the world’s best craftsmen for their part in the project.
Thank you to Scott McCracken who sadly passed away during the initial construction period (rest in peace my friend). Thank you to my friend and artist Jory Zollinger for taking over and completing the difficult task of the extensive metalwork.
A very special thank you to Swarovski Optik for your generous support on this and so many other projects over the years. Finally, I thank all the bidders and final buyers of the past exhibition rifles auctions. You have paved the way for this and other future projects.
I have never been so excited as I am for the upcoming 50th Anniversary Convention in Las Vegas. I greatly missed seeing all my friends and clients with the cancellation of last year’s Convention.
I am especially excited to meet new friends and for the official unveiling of the 50th Anniversary Commemorative to you all. Please stop by my booth, No. 3466, for your personal showing. Feel free to contact me with any questions you may have at [email protected] or visit my website for more information www.mountainriflery.com.
I look forward to seeing you all in Las Vegas!–John Bolliger Jr. Mountain Riflery LLC
