FN-Made J.C. Higgins Model 51 .30-06 Bolt Action Rifle with Bushnell Scopechief IV-M 3–9×
Built in Belgium by FN for Sears’ J.C. Higgins line, this Model 51 pairs a chrome-lined 22-inch .30-06 barrel with a forged FN commercial Mauser 98 action. Controlled-round-feed, a large claw extractor, and a three-position flag safety give it the classic Mauser mechanics collectors look for, while the wrap-around checkered walnut Monte-Carlo stock distinguishes the Model 51 from the earlier Model 50. A period-correct Bushnell Scopechief IV-M 3–9× scope is already mounted, making this full-size sporting rifle ready for the range or the field.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair – Extensive signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Fair – Generally clean with some residue or smudges and slight corrosion. Rifling is worn with slight loss of definition.
Specific Condition Notes: Moderate scratching, scuffing, finish loss, and blemishing are present on the metal and stock surfaces.
What’s Included
- Bushnell Scopechief IV-M 3–9× variable rifle scope (installed)
- Two-piece scope bases with rings (installed)
This rifle uses the robust FN commercial Mauser 98 action, featuring dual front locking lugs, a rear safety lug, and an external bolt-release tab. The bolt body and swept bolt handle are left in-the-white, while the receiver wears a blued finish and carries Belgian proof marks.
The 22-inch chrome-lined sporter barrel is marked “J.C. Higgins Model 51” and is chambered for .30-06 Springfield. Controlled-round-feed and a large non-rotating claw extractor ensure reliable cycling from the five-round internal magazine with hinged floorplate.
A walnut stock with wrap-around cut checkering, Monte-Carlo cheekpiece, and factory sling-swivel studs provides a comfortable 13-inch length of pull. An aftermarket brown ventilated rubber buttpad with black/ivory spacer, marked “Gamble Sporting Goods,” softens recoil.
The receiver is drilled and tapped, and the included Bushnell Scopechief IV-M 3–9× scope sits on two-piece bases. Original iron sights—a ramped front bead and folding rear leaf—remain intact for back-up use.
Many Model 51s were stripped for custom builds, making complete examples like this one increasingly uncommon, especially with their original barrels and period optics still in place.