FOUND: SLR 88 IMPERATOR, MY BUCKET LIST GUN!

[RM100GUY]

Located after long serch, a Theoben SLR (88) Imperator .177 FT, previously owned by member Flintsack (10yrs) and now entrusted to me. I would have been elated with a "sporter .22" but this is what came up! I've been searching for years for an '88 for my Theoben collection...they are very VERY few and far between...and this one is in remarkable condition for a 30ish year old gun...I don't have any idea how to grade 'em but it is NICE! This example will be retired from competition and placed on static display, only shot to keep the innards (and me) happy! Big BIG thank you to member Flintsack for ending my search and transfering "the chain of custody" of this historic piece to me! Also a shout out to my buddies Lewis & Bill who helped me look under rocks for an '88...they even found a couple...across the big pond or held to tightly here owners wouldn't let go! And thank you Airgun Nation for help making this possiable!

 

[fishing43]

Wow that’s a beautiful piece, Lewis is a big help for finding items 

 

[Lewis]

That is one fine rifle my friend.

I can accept no credit on this one. I did a fair bit of asking around but, Russ found this one on his own. 

An outstanding example of an amazing rifle. Color me jealous.

If only it were a lefty....

 

[sonnysan]

Congratulations. Everybody and their mother wants one of these. Other than the 88, the R1 Lasers are the second most requested item I should sell. Here is my ultra K 88:

https://airgunwarriors.com/community/airgun-talk/theoben-slr-88-he-ultra-k/#post-21642

 

[ChuckHunter]

Just wow Russell!!!! 

That's awesome my friend... needle in the hay stack for sure

James from Michigan

 

[Flintsack]

Russ,

i’m guessing I bought that rifle around 2010 or 11. It was on gun broker and no one was bidding. So I called the guy up and made him an offer. He just had it displayed an air gun show I believe in Michigan, and he was packing it up for the next show. That lovely Rifle was sitting on a table at a show and no one bought it.

Unbelievably super accurate and finely built rifle. Also beautiful.

Lewis, you did help…

Enjoy,

mike

 

[kingfisher61]

Russ

Congratulations! Definitely a very rare find. Mike not surprised it came from you!

Great to see everyone happy over a great deal. It's one of the joys of airgunning.

JC

 

[wijib]

Russ, you had all but given up on finding one. I am thrilled beyond words that you finally got your "Grail" airgun. Not only that but just look at that lumber! Now we need to find a lefty for Lewis! LOL

Bill

 

[Brewski]

Russ…I also have an SLR88FT Imperator. I have heard very few ever reached the USA. Nice to know there are a few still around. Also have a SLR98 TH, EVO TH, Fenman, Dual Magnum, and Eliminator in the collection. love the Theoben quality and workmanship.

Brewski