JC Higgins model 50

[Jonny V]

So I'm new here and have a question. I recently inherited a JC Higgins model 50 in 270 Win, in like new condition. My grandfather had it and may have shot it 50 times since he bought it new. He did kill a number of deer with it, but was never what you might call a "high volume" shooter.

I want to mount a scope on it, and will probably go with some variant of a 3-9 or so, using the pre-drilled holes. The one thing about it that annoys me is the magazine floorplate. I would really like to convert this thing to take box magazines like the newer Remingtons and so forth.

For background info, the rifle was NOT made by Sears, only sold there. It was made by FN and is stamped "made in Belgium" on the side of the receiver. The bolt and bore are chromed. The magazine well holds 5, which seems plenty, but the little lever might be easy to trip, sending rounds all over the ground.

Thanks for any help.

 

[jimmyraythomason]

Welcome to THR. This is a large ring Mauser action and scope bases for a large ring Mauser will work. Aftermarket detachable magazines are available but only hold 3 rounds. I would leave the original box magazine as is for reliability.

 

[Jim Watson]

It isn't an AK and you don't need a thirty shot 'nanner clip.

The action is FN, the barrel and probably the stock were made by High Standard... who knew something about good barrels.

 

[Ron James]

Jim Watson is correct, The receiver of your rifle is indeed FN, but it was barrelled and stocked in house by High Standard. This was done at the direction of Sears who owned/controlled HS at the time. A very fine rifle which doesn't get the respect it deserves. I don't know of any drop in conversions for these rifles and to custom convert it ( any thing can be done for enough money ) would cost far more than the value of the rifle.

 

[natman]

The good news: The Model 50 is a very high quality rifle. They are extremely accurate. Congratulations!

The bad news. It's probably not practical to convert to a box magazine. I seem to recall seeing a kit to put a detachable mag on a Mauser action once, but it was a real kluge.

The good news. If you put the floorplate on properly, it is not likely to fall off. Don't worry about it.

 

[Captcurt]

The good news: The Model 50 is a very high quality rifle. They are extremely accurate. Congratulations!

The bad news. It's probably not practical to convert to a box magazine. I seem to recall seeing a kit to put a detachable mag on a Mauser action once, but it was a real kluge.

The good news. If you put the floorplate on properly, it is not likely to fall off. Don't worry about it.

I have to echo this.

The FN action is a very good 98 mauser action. I have owned one and one of the best shots that I have had the pleasure to know owned one. He was in India in the late 50"s and shot a ton of game with it. His gun shot very well, I traded mine before I had a chance to wring it out.

 

[Jonny V]

Thank you guys for getting back to me. I guess I will get used to the idea of not having a box magazine. The action on this rifle is like a bank vault, solid all the way through.

Original owner died in the early/mid 70's (1974?) and I worry about what he would think of me screwing with his rifle. I'm gonna scope it and shoot it. I can get some time off, and if she'll have it (the rifle I mean) I'll put a REAL GOOD scope on her. We'll see.......

 

[jimmyraythomason]

I will get used to the idea of not having a box magazine.

It already HAS a box magazine. Just not a "detachable" magazine.

 

[Jonny V]

JimmyRay, What ever is wrong with you is not a small thing.

 

[jimmyraythomason]

JimmyRay, What ever is wrong with you is not a small thing.

????

 

[Jonny V]

Don't hate me, I've been drinking some beers. Off to bed now! nighty night!