Make: FN, customized by Al Biesen
Model: Commercial Mauser Large Ring "H" type.
Serial Number: 29319
Year of Manufacture: Action circa 1946-1958, custom build date unknown
Caliber: .416 Rigby
Action Type: Bolt action, fed by internal box magazine, with drop floorplate.
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked "Al Biesen, Gunmaker, Spokane WN". The left side of the barrel is marked "29319, 416". The cartridge trap on the butt is marked "RL"
Barrel Length: 24"
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a brass beaded blade dovetailed into a ramped base fixed to the barrel. The base is grooved for a hood which is not present. The rear sight is a fixed "V"-notch express dovetailed to a base that is fixed to the barrel. The side of the receiver is drilled and tapped with a QD Griffin and Howe mount holding a Leupold Vari-X II 2-7x32 scope with duplex reticle. The scope body has turned plum and shows minor wear. The glass is fairly clear, but could use a good cleaning. Spots of red paint have been applied to the front ring and scope body for indexing.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is an Al Biesen custom fleur-de-lis checkered walnut with ebony tipped forend, capped semi pistol grip, shadow-line cheekpiece, and black rubber Pachmayr Old English buttpad. There is a cartridge trap in the belly with storage for three cartridges. The LOP is 13 1/2" from trigger to pad. There are sling mounts on the barrel and buttstock. There is some handling wear. There are small scratches and compression dents throughout. There is minor wear in the well defined checkering. There are no chips or cracks. Overall this stock is in Very Good-plus condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Refinished at time of custom build.
Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion. There is some stubborn copper fouling. In this writer's opinion this bore rates+/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 97% of its current metal finish. The receiver has had drilled and tapped holes blind-filled and blended. There is light handling and operational wear. There are a few scattered minor scratches. The jeweling shows light operational wear but is mostly crisp. The checkering on the metal is crisp. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall this rifle is in Fine-Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this rifle. As with all previously owned firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: The installed scope is included.
Our Assessment: Built on a postwar FN large ring "H" type Mauser action, this rifle represents one of the finest foundations for a dangerous game sporting rifle, combining controlled round feed reliability with robust construction ideally suited for heavy calibers. Customized by Al Biesen of Spokane, Washington, the rifle reflects the work of one of America's most respected gunmakers. Chambered in .416 Rigby, a legendary cartridge introduced in 1911 for use on African dangerous game, the rifle embodies the classic safari tradition, delivering substantial power with a reputation for deep penetration and dependable performance in the field.
The rifle exhibits hallmark Biesen craftsmanship in its one-piece walnut stock with refined appointments. The inclusion of a cartridge trap in the buttstock further reinforces its intended use in remote hunting environments. The metal retains approximately 97% of its metal finish, with only light handling wear and minor cosmetic marks present, while the jeweled bolt remains largely crisp. The barrel is properly marked with Biesen’s Spokane address and is fitted with express iron sights while the receiver sports a quick-detach Griffin and Howe mount carrying a Leupold.
Mechanically, the rifle remains in strong operating condition with a strong bore. The controlled feed Mauser action combined with the .416 Rigby chambering reflects a purposeful design centered on reliability under demanding conditions. Overall, this rifle stands as a well-executed example of a classic dangerous game rifle blending proven Mauser engineering with Biesen's refined stockmaking and finishing. Please see our photos and good luck!
