Info on "W.A. Sukalle Tuscon Ariz" rifle maker

[madbadger]

I've recently come across a customized 30-06 Springfield marked "W.A. Sukalle Tuscon Ariz" on the top of the barrel. The rifle has also been restocked at what appears to be the same time period and has a very ornately relief engraved buttplate. It has a medium heavy barrel with a custom front ramp and the rear sight is dovetailed as far back on the barrel as possible. It has never been drilled/tapped for scope mounts and from the cut of the stock it is apparent that this rifle is meant to be shot iron sights only. I would say it is in good to fine condition, but the bore looks very good.

I have heard of this '30's era maker, but have had a difficult time locating any decent information on him - or an estimated value of his work. Can anyone shed any light on this neat old rifle for me?

The gunshop owner deals primarily in "tactical" firearms (whatever that means) and he seems almost embarrased to have this piece of history on his shelf.

I think it's one I should likely grab while I have the chance, but thought I'd poll those wiser than me to learn your thoughts.

Thanks in advance,

MadBadger

[june6th1944]

All I can say is that Jack O'Connor was a HUGE fan of his and had Sukalle do quite a bit of customizing of rifles for him.  These included Mausers and Springfields.  Originally Sukalle was a barrelmaker who naturally evolved into  complete customization (barrels, action modification/tuning, scope setup).

He is mentioned several times in "The Rifle Book" (1964) and one article in "Arms and Ammunition Manual" (1952) both by Jack O'Connor, and only one mention in "The Complete Book of Rifles and Shotguns" also by O'Connor.

I'm no expert, but I think it's a very interesting find.

Good luck.

[Rob P.]

Based on how Jack O'Conner felt about his work, and the fact that a famous personnality as himself held Sukalle's work in such high reguard,  I would snap the rifle up myself. But then, I am quite the JOC fan. May not mean as much to others.

Rob

[Rob P.]

Based on how Jack O'Conner felt about his work, and the fact that a famous personnality as himself held Sukalle's work in such high reguard,  I would snap the rifle up myself. But then, I am quite the JOC fan. May not mean as much to others.

Rob

[DragonsPeak]

I have a sporterized M1917 Enfield (Winchester) by "W.A. Sukalle - Gunmaker- Phoenix Ariz" with target aperature sights. It greatly resembles pictures of the Remington Model 30S. Anyway, it shoots incredibly accurately and the bolt cycles smoothly. I was greatly surprised to aim at a 1/2" color dot at 50yds and centerpunch it with G.I. ammo. And then do it again and again. He did very good work on this one!
I inherited this one, but I would have little hesitation buying a good rifle from W.A.Sukalle.