Make: Mathieu Arms Co. / Griffin & Howe Inc.
Model: Custom Safari Rifle (Built on Mathieu Arms Left-Handed Action)
Serial Number: 1347
Year of Manufacture: Circa 1950s, likely customized ca. 1960s-1970s.
Caliber: .375 Holland & Holland Magnum
Action Type: Bolt Action, Left-Handed, Controlled Round Feed, Fed by Internal Magazine
Markings: The right side of the receiver is marked “MATHIEU ARMS CO.”. The left rear of the barrel is marked “CAL. .375”. The top of the barrel is marked “No 1985 GRIFFIN & HOWE INC. NEW YORK”. The serial number “1347” is marked on the right side of the receiver ring. The scope bases are marked “BUHLER ORINDA CAL.”
Barrel Length: 25". Heavy taper profile
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a ramped blade with a hood. The rear sight has a standing blade with a folding leave. There are also Buhler scope bases mounted to the receiver for use with quick-detach rings (rings not included).
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a checkered beautifully grained French walnut Monte Carlo stock with shadow-line cheekpiece, capped semi-pistol grip, and an rosewood forend tip. The stock is fitted with a thick Pachmayr Decelerator recoil pad. There are only the lightest handling marks throughout and no notable chips, cracks, or losses. The LOP measures 14 1/4" from the front of the trigger to the back of the recoil pad. The stock rates in about Excellent overall condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: Internal magazine. Floorplate shows light finish wear, otherwise excellent.
Type of Finish: Matte Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright, the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 97% of its original matte blued finish. The balance of the finish shows faint edge thinning and light operational wear on the bolt handle and knob. There are minimal signs of use with only a few faint scuffs and handling marks on metal surfaces. The screw heads are sharp and show no disfigurement. The pins are clean and unmarred. The markings are crisp and legible. Overall, this rifle rates in about Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: This is an exquisite example of a custom safari-grade bolt action rifle built by the legendary Griffin & Howe of New York. Crafted on a Mathieu Arms left-handed action, this rifle is purpose-built for dangerous game and serious safari use, featuring a heavy taper barrel chambered in the powerful .375 H&H Magnum.
The express sights and Buhler scope mounts allow the shooter to switch from open sight snap shooting to scoped precision, making this rifle both practical and versatile. Its finely grained French walnut stock with sculpted lines and crisp checkering is as elegant as it is functional.
This rifle is ideal for collectors of bespoke American sporting arms or hunters preparing for African or Alaskan pursuits. Its exceptional craftsmanship, practical configuration, and classic chambering ensure it will serve its next owner with pride in both field and display.