Make: Weatherby
Model: Southgate Pre-Mark V
Serial Number: 3244 (serial matching bolt)
Year of Manufacture: 1955 / ATF Classification: C&R
Caliber/Gauge: .220 Swift
Action Type: Bolt action, controlled round feed, hinged floorplate
Barrel Length: 27"
Sights/Optics: There are no iron sights currently mounted. There is a pair of filled taps on the barrel. The top of the receiver has two pairs of taps ready to mount an optic, though none is present.
Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The furniture is one piece checkered birdseye maple with a cheekpiece, capped semi-pistol grip, tipped forend, and a ventilated synthetic Pachmayr White Line buttpad. The buttpad has minimal handling wear and remains supple. The furniture has no notable blemishes except for three cracks running from the butt. The LOP measures 13.5" from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. The furniture rates in Very Good to Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp with light fouling. There is light scattered erosion throughout the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 8/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its original metal finish. There are no notable blemishes other than some marks where scope bases were mounted. The screw heads are unmarred and retain turnable slots. The markings are fairly clear and complete. Overall, this rifle rates in Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this firearm. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Two scope bases (one of the screws is missing)
Our Assessment: The Weatherby Southgate Pre-Mark V rifles represent the earliest production period of Weatherby’s iconic sporting rifles before the introduction of the Mark V action in 1958. Produced in Weatherby’s South Gate, California, these rifles were typically built on high-quality FN Mauser commercial actions and customized with Weatherby’s distinctive styling, including Monte Carlo stocks, bold checkering patterns, and premium-grade wood. The Southgate rifles helped establish Weatherby’s reputation for high-performance sporting arms and remain highly sought after by collectors. This example, serial number 3244 with a matching-numbered bolt, was manufactured in 1955 and is chambered in the uncommon .220 Swift cartridge.
This rifle retains about 98% of its original blued finish, with only minor marks from previous scope-base mounting being visible. The birdseye maple stock remains attractive with minimal handling wear and a supple Pachmayr White Line recoil pad, though three cracks extend from the buttstock and should be noted. The bore is mostly bright with sharp rifling, light fouling, and scattered light erosion throughout, rating 8/10. The rifle retains its serial-matching bolt, original finish, and desirable Southgate-era Weatherby characteristics. The action functions correctly, and the included scope bases provide the option for future optic mounting. Overall, this Weatherby Southgate Pre-Mark V rates in Fine condition as a C&R sporting rifle. Please see our photos for a better understanding of the condition and good luck with your bids!
