Winchester Model 53 .32-20 W.C.F. 22” Lever Action Rifle MFD 1928 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,250.00
LSB#: WY250501RO013
Make: Winchester
Model: 53
Serial Number: 9997
Year of Manufacture: 1928
Caliber: .32-20 W.C.F.
Action Type: Lever Action with Tubular Button Mag Magazine
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “-MODEL 53-“, “WINCHESTER / -TRADE MARK-“, “-NICKEL STEEL – 32-20 W.C.F.-“. The top of the barrel and receiver have ovalled “WP” proofs. The top tang is marked “WINCHESTER / -TRADE MARK- / -MADE IN U.S.A.-“. The right of the barrel is marked “MADE IN U.S.A. WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. / NEW HAVEN, CONN.”. The bottom-front of the receiver is marked with the serial number “9997”. The bottom of the receiver next to the lever is marked “41”.
Barrel Length: 22?
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a brass beaded blade dovetailed to a base fixed to the front of the barrel. The rear sight is a semi-buckhorn u notch elevator sight dovetailed to the barrel. The top tang is drilled, tapped and filled for a tang sight (none present).
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece smooth walnut with a capped forend, straight wrist, fluted straight comb and serrated steel shotgun-style buttplate. There are no chips or cracks. There are no notable handling marks. The LOP measures 13″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. Overall, the stocks are in about Fine condition as refinished.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Refinished
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 99% of its metal refinish. The balance of the finish is strong and compete throughout. There is minor oxidation on the lever where some of the metal has begun turning to a slight patina color. There are some scattered light nicks, scuffs and scratches. The action shows operational wear. The screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle is in Excellent condition as refinished.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The action is fairly smooth and the lever locks up correctly. The hammer has a half-cock safety position. We have not fired this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: Winchester’s Model 53 is essentially the same as the 1892, but was offered with fewer special order features. Introduced in 1924, the standard model was chambered for 25-20 with a 22? round barrel, 6-shot button magazine, straight grip and shotgun-style steel buttplate. Special order features included chambering for 32-20 or 44-40 (or .218 Bee very late in production), takedown frame, pistol grip, set-trigger, crescent buttplate and deluxe wood.
This is a particularly late example, serial 9997, and is special order chambered for .32-20. The rifle has been refinished nicely so it looks great for its age. The bore is nearly pristine and the mechanics are strong. The rifle would make a great addition to a Winchester collection and maybe even getting back out in the field. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
