#171 • Kimber Model 82 Government Bolt-Action Target Rifle - .22 LR

Part of WINTER SPORTSMAN CONSIGNMENT AUCTION MONDAY, DECEMBER 7TH 6:30PM (live auction by Edinburg Auction Sales. Inc. )

Status: Available

Category: FIREARMS

Kimber of Oregon | Model 82 Government | .22 LR | Bolt-Action Target Rifle | Aperture Sights The Kimber Model 82 Government is an American-made bolt-action target rifle chambered in .22 Long Rifle, manufactured by Kimber of Oregon in Clackamas, Oregon. Developed for the United States Army's marksmanship training program, the Model 82 Government represents an interesting chapter in American military training rifle history and precision rimfire rifle development. During the late 1980s, Kimber of Oregon received a U.S. government contract to manufacture approximately 20,000 Model 82 Government rifles for military marksmanship training. These rifles were intended to provide a precision-oriented .22 LR platform suitable for developing competitive shooting skills. Production for the initial government contract took place primarily between 1987 and 1989, with related Government Model production continuing into the early 1990s. The Model 82 Government was built around Kimber's established Model 82 bolt-action platform but incorporated several features specifically suited for competitive target shooting. Its heavy target barrel, substantial wood stock, and precision-oriented action distinguish it from the company's lighter sporting rifles. The design emphasizes stability, consistent accuracy, and the deliberate shooting characteristics associated with traditional smallbore target rifles. The Government Model typically features a 25" heavy target barrel, providing substantial forward weight and a stable shooting platform. Its oversized target stock incorporates a broad forearm designed to provide a steady foundation for supported shooting positions. This example is equipped with a globe-style front target sight featuring a removable sight insert, allowing the front sight picture to be configured for different target-shooting preferences. The rear features a large, adjustable aperture-style target sight, providing a precise sighting reference. This combination of front globe and rear aperture sights is characteristic of traditional competitive smallbore rifles and was designed to support accurate shooting at known distances. Many original government-contract Model 82 rifles were eventually transferred to the Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) for sale to civilian shooters and collectors. Government-contract examples are commonly identified by a "U.S." marking above the serial number, while certain commercial-production examples were marked differently. The rifle's military-contract background has contributed to its popularity among collectors of American military training rifles and vintage Kimber firearms. This example, serial number GM006650, is representative of Kimber's late-1980s precision rimfire rifle production. Its heavy-barrel configuration, target aperture sights, and historical association with military marksmanship training distinguish it from standard sporting .22 rifles. Firearm Specs Manufacturer: Kimber of Oregon Model: 82 Government Caliber: .22 Long Rifle Action: Bolt-Action Barrel Length: 25" Heavy Target Barrel (Standard Factory Specification) Finish: Blued Steel Stock/Grip: Wood Target Stock with Broad Forearm Capacity: Single-Shot Sights: Globe-Style Front Target Sight with Removable Insert / Adjustable Rear Aperture (Peep) Sight Year of Manufacture: Estimated 1987–1989; Exact Year Not Confirmed Barrel Profile: Heavy Target Purpose: Military Marksmanship Training / Competitive Target Shooting Country of Manufacture: USA Serial Number GM006650 Condition Excellent condition. The rifle presents very well overall, with a few scattered scratches on the wood stock and a scratch on the trigger guard, consistent with previous handling and use. The remaining exterior surfaces retain an attractive appearance, and the bore is bright and shiny. Extras & Features Original Kimber factory box Original factory paperwork A well-preserved example of the Kimber of Oregon Model 82 Government, featuring a heavy target barrel and traditional globe front and adjustable rear aperture sights. Its excellent overall condition, military marksmanship heritage, and accompanying original factory box and paperwork make it an appealing addition to a collection of vintage Kimber firearms or American target rifles.