Winchester Model 43 .218 Bee 23.5″ Bolt Action Rifle 1948-1953 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,100.00
LSB#: LSB250519KS005
Make: Winchester
Model: Model 43
Serial Number: 1515
Year of Manufacture: 1948-1953 C&R
Caliber: .218 Bee
Action Type: Bolt action with a detachable magazine
Markings: The left of the receiver is marked with the serial number. The left side of the barrel is marked “MADE IN NEW HAVEN, CONN. U.S. OF AMERICA / -WINCHESTER PROOF STEEL- / -WINCHESTER- / -TRADE MARK- / -MODEL 43-218 BEE-”.
Barrel Length: 23.5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a brass bead atop a serrated ramp that is screwed into the barrel. The rear sight is an adjustable Lyman peep sight mounted to the receiver. There is a dovetail slot that is filled with a protector. There are also multiple screws on the side of the receiver for mounting sights/optics.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The wood stock has a semi pistol grip. It also has a serrated metal but pad, and straight comb. The LOP measures 13.5” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. There is light wear on the stock such as a few scratches. The stock rates in about Very Good overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp with light wear. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 97% of its finish. The firearm shows light markings and blemishes. There is light operational wear from normal use on this firearm. The screw heads are lightly marred, but very functional. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: The Winchester Model 43 chambered in .218 Bee is a bolt-action varmint rifle produced between 1948 and 1953, and is now Curio & Relic eligible. Featuring a 23.5? barrel and a sleek, streamlined profile, the Model 43 was designed as a more affordable companion to Winchester’s higher-end Model 70, yet it delivered solid accuracy and performance in small-game and varmint applications.
The .218 Bee cartridge—based on a necked-down .25-20 case—offers flat trajectories and mild recoil, making it ideal for precision shooting on small targets at moderate ranges. Smooth-handling, elegantly styled, and chambered in a now-scarce but capable cartridge, the Winchester Model 43 in .218 Bee remains a favorite among collectors and vintage varmint shooters for its craftsmanship, nostalgia, and field utility. Make sure to inspect our detailed pictures to get a better idea of the firearm. -C.R.
