Gary Cooper's "second" sporterized M1903 - pictures

[Bhauer]

While I sympathize in your desire to take it out and put it to the use it was intended, I admit I'd hesitate to take such a rifle with a "history" out into the "boonies".

I hear you. I'm not sure yet what to do with this rifle. I've always been pretty careful with my firearms and have hunted with some fairly valuable old mauser sporters, Winchesters, etc. I have lived on a private ranch my whole life with elk deer, turkies, etc., and so I have a comfort level on my own turf. Still debating. I would make a cool story if I could tell my grandkids I hunted with Gary Cooper's rifle. Of course they probably will have no idea who Cooper was by the time I have Grandkids.

[Andouille]

I hear you. I'm not sure yet what to do with this rifle. I've always been pretty careful with my firearms and have hunted with some fairly valuable old mauser sporters, Winchesters, etc. I have lived on a private ranch my whole life with elk deer, turkies, etc., and so I have a comfort level on my own turf. Still debating. I would make a cool story if I could tell my grandkids I hunted with Gary Cooper's rifle. Of course they probably will have no idea who Cooper was by the time I have Grandkids.

Ask yourself, what would Gary Cooper do with that rifle come hunting season.

He bought it to use it, and you have proof thereof. Your call, but probably in our heart of hearts, we all know what Coop would tell you do do.