A new collaboration between JP Sauer and Field Ethos, the Exception 9.3×62 Sauer 100, is a new offering that I think fills a rare gap in today’s rifle market.
Built on a modern Sauer 100 action, the 9.3x62mm Mauser version of the rifle is meant to give you the same power and precision that historical European hunters had, just with a modernized and well-refined action and package.
Starting with the reliable and quite well-loved Sauer 100 platform (see a list of our reviews below), the Exception features a three-lug bolt with a smooth 60-degree bolt throw, a three-position safety, and Sauer’s “EVER REST” bedding system, allowing it to squeeze sub-MOA accuracy from a classic hunting cartridge like the 9.3 Mauser.
The rifle also features a 22-inch cold hammer-forged semi-weight barrel and an overall weight of 7 pounds. Other features include factory iron sights, a barrel-band sling stud, a steel checkered bolt knob, and a spare magazine – something a lot of other companies still don’t do.
One of the biggest draws to the rifle, besides this new (classic?) cartridge, is the stock, which really sets this rifle apart among its competitors: Field Ethos has hand-selected Grade 3 Turkish walnut and designed it with a neutral cast that suits both right- and left-handed shooters. Combined with the trademark Field Ethos buttpad, this rifle is supposed to not only let you shoot the 120-year-old cartridge but also manage its stout recoil.
On paper, the 9.3×62 chambering offers a lot of versatility: enough power for elk, moose, and large bears, while still effective on whitetail and hogs with the right loads. Field Ethos’ testing in African safaris ranged from 80-pound animals to over a ton, proving once again that the rifle’s adaptability extends to not just North America and Europe, but also its original intended theatre of operations – the African Continent. I think the cartridge is ideal for hunters who want one good rifle for local game as well as trips to Africa, Canada, or even Alaska, without stepping into full-custom pricing.
Pragmatically, the Exception feeds from a 5+1 detachable box magazine, and as I mentioned before, Rivers & Glen, the exclusive distributor of this rifle, includes a second magazine with each rifle.
The trigger is adjustable between roughly 2.2 and 4.2 pounds, making it meet most modern hunters’ preferences. The rifle features an overall length of 42 inches with a 14.5-inch length of pull, keeping it comfortably in classic full-size hunting rifle territory.
The new boutique rifle is currently priced at $2,699, and it’s only available through Rivers & Glen Trading Co., where you can find full specs and purchasing info: https://riversandglenguns.com/fe-exception-sauer/.
Official Description:
The 9.3×62 cartridge proved its metal more than 100 years ago when European farmers living in Africa needed a rifle capable of killing the animals that wanted to kill them. Cheap 8mm Mausers were converted to accept the 9.3 and everyone made it home for dinner (thanks, Otto Bock).
The Exception was designed with a similar mindset: Wood and steel, kill everything, affordable.
Somehow we ended up with fine wood, sub-MOA groups, and a geometry that makes recoil negligible. If you can’t kill it with this one, drop it and run.
Rivers & Glen Trading Co. is proud to be the exclusive authorized Sauer Dealer for the Field Ethos Exception. Please call 843-654-1808 or email us at [email protected] and we will be more than happy to assist you with any questions.
-AMMO: We have two purchase options available below from our friends at Buffalo Bore. Tim from Buffalo Bore personally sent some groups he’s shot with the Exception 9.3×62 and it was very impressive. .75MOA groups at 150yds with the 250gr TSX load and similar accuracy with the 300gr Solid load.
-SCOPE MOUNTS: We have two purchase options available below from Blaser. They are the Hexalock QD mounts/rings in 30mm and 1″. Great option for a quick and easy removal of the scope with a return to 0 for traveling or wanting to use the iron sights during a hunt.
-SCOPES: We have some great options below from Minox and Swarovski.
JP Sauer & Sons Articles on The Truth About Guns:
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