Here is one of the nicest Ross Model 10 Sporters we have seen to date. Having been stored well and having seen little use, this rifle retains a high level of condition. Chambeered for the 280 Ross cartridge, the Model 10 has an exceptionally robust action and is considered by many to be the finest offering by the Ross Rifle Company. This example has a Lyman 48 long tang receiver sight installed over the rear bridge. This appears to be the way it left the factory, as the mounting plate for a Porter pop up rear sight is in situ but not finish machined for the swiveling aperture. Additionally, there is no visible evidence of a banded rear barrel sight base having been present. The stock is inletted for a sight band and front swivel stud band, but these were apparently not installed. This leads us to conclude that many sporter stocks received similar inletting treatment before the exact configuration of the rifle was determined. The banded front sight ramp and blade are "Stewart" marked, and may be an after factory improvement. In our opinion, this is a much more attractive front sight than those normally encountered on this model. The 26 inch barrel has a beautiful shiny bore and chamber with crisp rifling and grooves from front to back. The metal finish is beautiful, especially considering the rifle's age. There is some high edge wear, especially on the bottom metal, with areas of thinning extending back from those sharp edges. Blue is thinning around the front sight, and there is a small patch of corrosion roughness on the top of the barrel.
We removed the stock to check for cracks, and none were found. The action interior is clean, rust free and shows little signs of wear. The stock is constructed of a handsome piece of walnut and appears to wear its original finish. Checkering is dark but crisp and in great shape. There are scattered small pressure marks and nicks in the wood, but nothing even close to major; these are character marks and part of the original patina. Inletting is tight and even to the metal and is another testament to the high condition and originality of this piece. Length of pull from the trigger over the factory checkered butt plate is 13-5/8". The steel butt and screws may have been refinished at some point due to the finish appearing too nice compared to the rest of the rifle. However, it could be original and just well protected by a slip on pad or similar. Checkering on the butt is crisp and clean and its edges fit the inletting beautifully.
For the consummate Ross rifle student or collector, we consider this Model 10 to be a scarce opportunity to improve or enlarge your collection.
