Apr 05, 2014 Kimber 82 Serial # Hi, I purchased a Kimber Model 82 in.22 Magnum today, it has a Leupold Vari-x III 2.5x8 scope and the barrel is marked ' KIMBER of Oregon, INC, CLACKAMAS OREGON, USA. The serial # is M24xx.
I have been on a hell of a 22lr kick since Christmas. I bought a Takedown 10/22 and a second 10/22 (Which I immediately tuned into a full Kidd custom and it still amazes at how well it shoots), I then bought a Smith M&P 15-22 FDE MOE version that is an absolute ball for the kids (me included). The last 22 I wanted was a real nice classic 22 bolt gun. I tried a 95% condition Remington 541s mfg'd in 1972. It shot phenomenally, but just didnt have the high class finish and lines I really wanted. So I sold it and decided it would have to be an Anschutz 54 Sporter, a real nice Kimber model 82 or a Cooper. Didnt really want to mess with Cooper that much and couldnt find an Annie that I really liked and then I ran across a stunning (to me) Kimber model 82 on which I was able to work a trade that suited both myself and the seller.
I think I got pretty lucky because what I ended up with is not only a step above the already nice standard model 82 but is also a pretty rare model. It was only made for 1 or 2 years right at the end of Kimbers run in Oregon. The sticker on the end of the box says 'Kimber model 82' and then 'Deluxe'. The Deluxe model is essentially a Super Grade but typically has grade AA Claro walnut instead of the grade AAA of the SG's. The regular model 82's have A grade walnut, which is still usually really nice.
My Deluxe has the Neidner Steel butt plate which is inletted into the stock and just adds a real touch of class with the detail work required to fit them. It also has inletted machined sling posts, Ebony front cap, and some other SG features. Also, from what I am told the 'B' actioned rifles like mine is, were the most desirable of the 3 actions Kimber used on the model 82. In addition to other features, I am told the B action uses a 1 piece bolt as opposed to the multiple piece bolt on the others. I am still learning about it, and I find it all very interesting.
I had been waiting on my scope(Leupold VX2 4-12x40 AO) to show up from Liberty Optics and it came today and I got it mounted. Other than a little hassle with the original rings like Kimber offered(Warne vertically split, with thumb posts for QD removal), it went without much drama. And I am planning to take it to the range tomorrow and run some Eley Tenex red box, Lapua midas, various SK rounds and about 5 other higher and ammo's through it to see what it likes.
I took a few photos a minute ago to show off my new rifle. Easily the 'prettiest' rifle I own. I wanted something that was nice enough to be an heirloom, and I am quite satisfied. Here are the photo's.
I think I got pretty lucky because what I ended up with is not only a step above the already nice standard model 82 but is also a pretty rare model. It was only made for 1 or 2 years right at the end of Kimbers run in Oregon. The sticker on the end of the box says 'Kimber model 82' and then 'Deluxe'. The Deluxe model is essentially a Super Grade but typically has grade AA Claro walnut instead of the grade AAA of the SG's. The regular model 82's have A grade walnut, which is still usually really nice.
My Deluxe has the Neidner Steel butt plate which is inletted into the stock and just adds a real touch of class with the detail work required to fit them. It also has inletted machined sling posts, Ebony front cap, and some other SG features. Also, from what I am told the 'B' actioned rifles like mine is, were the most desirable of the 3 actions Kimber used on the model 82. In addition to other features, I am told the B action uses a 1 piece bolt as opposed to the multiple piece bolt on the others. I am still learning about it, and I find it all very interesting.
I had been waiting on my scope(Leupold VX2 4-12x40 AO) to show up from Liberty Optics and it came today and I got it mounted. Other than a little hassle with the original rings like Kimber offered(Warne vertically split, with thumb posts for QD removal), it went without much drama. And I am planning to take it to the range tomorrow and run some Eley Tenex red box, Lapua midas, various SK rounds and about 5 other higher and ammo's through it to see what it likes.
I took a few photos a minute ago to show off my new rifle. Easily the 'prettiest' rifle I own. I wanted something that was nice enough to be an heirloom, and I am quite satisfied. Here are the photo's.