Criterion Rifle

The Griffin & Howe Criterion Rifle
- The American Best -

The New Dedicated Safari and Dangerous Game Rifle
Exclusively from Griffin & Howe

Meet the newest addition to the Griffin & Howe line up!

The new Criterion rifle from Griffin & Howe is a testament to our commitment to crafting the finest firearms. Designed to meet the demands of the modern dangerous game hunter, this rifle combines the best of traditional craftsmanship with modern firearm technology.

A Rifle With Heritage

Inspired by the classic safari rifles of history, the Criterion rifle is a tribute to the rich tradition of big game hunting. Its timeless design and exceptional performance make it the perfect choice for those with a taste for nostalgia.

Action

Double Square Bridge Magnum Mauser Action

The action, made by Granite Mountain Arms, is a testament to engineering excellence and includes all of the features that made the Mauser 98 one of the finest actions ever designed.

Precision-machined from 8620 steel and case-hardened for durability and strength, it incorporates the Mauser gas control system for safety and reliability. Dual opposed locking lugs and a third safety lug provide robust locking and enhanced safety. 

Designed for optimal scope clearance, the rifle features an altered bolt handle and a 3-position wing safety. The true magnum length action accommodates a wide range of powerful cartridges. The double square bridge is milled for the proprietary Griffin and Howe top mount rings, allowing rapid removal and reinstallation of the optic without loss of zero. Left-handed actions are available upon request.

Barrel

4140 Kreiger Barrel

The barrel is painstakingly milled from a 4140 Kreiger cut-rifled barrel blank, incorporating an integral quarter rib that transitions into a full-length rib as well as the integral front sight ramp. An integral front sling attachment point also avoids the issue of separate components becoming dislodged over time or failing while on the hunt.

Once profiled, great pains are taken to precision chamber the rifle square to the bore, resulting in outstanding accuracy from an extremely strong, beautifully machined and hand-polished barrel.  A standing bar express sight with a folding leaf is dovetailed into the quarter rib and provides precise back up sights necessary on any safari rifle.

Stock

Circassian Walnut Stock

The handcrafted Circassian walnut stock, accented with ebony, further showcases the exquisite craftsmanship that represents Griffin & Howe’s rifle-building legacy.

The stock design features a classic kidney style cheek piece, a comb designed to minimize felt recoil, 22LPI Griffin & Howe point pattern checkering, and leather-wrapped Purdey pad to enhance both aesthetics and functionality. 

Stock fitting is available upon request.

Engraving

Bespoke Engraving

As a true ‘American Best’ rifle, we offer a myriad of options for bespoke engraving. Custom designs can be featured on the action, scope rings, floor plate and grip cap.

Chambering

The Criterion Rifle is be available to order in .375 H&H and .404 Jeffery, with additional chamberings such as .300 Win Mag, .300 H&H, .458 Lott, .416 Remington Mag, and .500 Jeffery coming soon.

Special order chamberings, including .416 Rigby and .505 Gibbs, are also available. 

Purchasing a Griffin & Howe Criterion Rifle

To order your Criterion rifle or to find out more about the options available, please call us on 973-398-2670 or email gunsmithing@griffinhowe.com.

We will be launching a dedicated page for you to build out your custom Criterion rifle in the first quarter of 2025 – watch this space!