Make: High Standard
Model: Model 103 Supermatic Citation, U.S. Marked
Serial Number: 1133587
Year of Manufacture: 1960 / C&R
Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
Action Type: Single Action, Semi-Auto fed by Removable Magazine
Barrel Length: 6 3/4". The barrel is drilled and tapped for the installation of barrel weights. The sides of the barrel are slotted for the attachment of its included proprietary compensator.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a Patridge blade integral to a serrated base, screwed to the barrel. The rear sight is a fully adjustable square notch sight, dovetailed to the rear of the frame.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The pistol is fitted with an elaborate custom sculpted walnut left-handed anatomical target grip with pronounced thumb and palm support surfaces and an adjustable palm shelf. The right side incorporates a large Mexico 1968 Olympic medallion. The wood displays attractive contrasting grain and extensive hand shaping. The left side of the grip has broken away around the trigger guard. There are scattered scratches, handling marks, small compressions, and areas of finish wear consistent with use. The grip rates in Fair condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is some minor erosion throughout. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 95% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish is strong. The action is smooth. The action shows light operational wear. There are a few minor nicks. The screw heads range from sharp to lightly tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. There is light intermittent oxidation. There are a few scratches scattered about the frame, slide, and barrel. Overall, this pistol rates in Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this pistol. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: High Standard's Supermatic series represented one of the high points of American precision rimfire pistol development. The Model 103 Citation was built during the classic Hamden, Connecticut period and combined an adjustable target trigger, excellent sights, interchangeable barrel system, and the unmistakable weighted and stabilized profile that earned these early Supermatics the enduring "Space Gun" nickname. This example is considerably more interesting than a standard commercial Citation because of the factory "U.S." marking. The U.S. Government purchased Model 103 Citations for training, placing these pistols within the rich tradition of American military marksmanship and service pistol competition. High Standard pistols were formidable competition arms during this period and enjoyed genuine international and Olympic success.
The custom grip makes this example especially striking. Its deeply sculpted target configuration carries an inset medallion commemorating the Juegos de la XIX Olimpiada, the 1968 Mexico City Olympic Games. High Standard itself had genuine Olympic shooting credentials, making the motif exceptionally appropriate to the pistol. We could not locate any credentials that this pistol was used in the olympic games. What can be stated confidently is that this is an authentic U.S.-marked Model 103 Citation wearing a remarkable period-themed competition grip, combining American military target-pistol history with one of the most recognizable chapters in international shooting competition. Please see our photos for a better understanding of the condition and good luck with your bids!
