While Sears may not be considered an industry powerhouse, the historically large company was known for carrying a wide range of inventory from houses sold in kits, to metal lathes and even firearms. Today we are going to take a look at the J.C. Higgins Model 51.
The J.C. Higgins 51 was built on an FN Mauser style action with a High Standard 22″ chrome lined barrel. By today’s standards these are nicely built guns that would be costly to produce in today’s market.
Note the FN Mauser style action with controlled round feed. All metal and walnut, no plastic here.
The open rear sight is beefy. The action is drilled and tapped for a scope. 
Note the “FN Action- Made in Beligum” on the left side of the receiver. 
The forend of the stock has wrap around checkering.
Top view of the action. Note the large extractor, external bolt release and flag safety. 
The front sight ramp is impressive. The front sight has a brass insert for quick target acquisition. 
Another view of the front sight.
The stock has a raised cheek piece.
The bottom metal is impressive by today’s standards, no polymer or aluminum. Just blued steel.
A view of the bolt. 
Barrel roll marks. The top reads “J.C. Higgins Model 51” followed by “CAL. 30-06”. The bottom reads “Sears Roebuck and Co. 503.100”.
This rifle is a great find, you might want to look out for one next time you go gun shopping!
You can read more about its history on Chuch Hawks site, here.
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