Collectors Club Meeting April

Meeting was well attended with several regular attendees bringing items associated with the “Sportco Firearms” theme of the meeting. 

Sporting Arms Ltd, better known simply as “Sportco” was a firearms manufacturer based in Adelaide from 1947 through to the early 1980s. They produced a wide range of rimfire rifles, shotguns and centrefire rifles throughout their 30-odd year run. 

Some examples of Sportco-branded or associated firearms that members brought for display included:

• Model 40 (single shot .22)
• Model 63B (repeating .22)
• Model 93A (repeating .22) 
• Model 55 (break-action 12ga)
• Model 81 (bolt-action 12ga) 
• Sportco Hornet (repeating .22 Hornet)
• A Sportco-barrelled .303/25, 
• As well as two Martini Cadet conversions in both .22LR and .222 Rimmed. 

One member also brought along some original advertising material from Sportco, spanning from the mid-60s through to the late-70s era, as well as some historical recounts of the Sportco company. Much discussion was had amongst the meeting, including other business ventures by Sportco founder, Jack Warne and the types of wood that was used in stock-making. 

Another member brought an antique Belgian 8ga “Goose Gun”. This example is typical of 18th-Century Belgian firearm manufacturing with sparse markings and an unknown proof mark. This unique piece weighs 15lbs and sports a whopping 40-inch barrel and is similar to a Jones-style Under-lever Break-action. A typical period correct load for these was approximately 2 ounces of shot backed by 130gr of blackpowder! 

We also British spike bayonet made by Frances Preston of Manchester. This bayonet was heavily pitted and requires some restoration to further preserve it. Due to the manufacturer and the bayonet dimensions we believe this was a “Pattern 1859 Indian”. 

Our next meeting will be held on Saturday 2nd May, we hope to see you there!

Here's a few photos: