Winchester Model 61 .22 Short Long LR 24” Pump Action Rifle, MFD 1942 C&R

SOLD FOR: $740

WOA#: WY240310SL020

Make: Winchester

Model: 61

Serial Number: 59730

Year of Manufacture: 1942

Caliber: .22 Short, Long, or Long Rifle

Action Type: Pump Action Rifle Fed by Internal Tubular Magazine.

Markings: The left of the barrel is marked -“WINCHESTER / PROOF STEEL”-, “MODEL 61”, “-WINCHESTER- / -TRADE MARK-“, “22 S.L. OR L.R.-“. The top of the barrel and receiver each have an oval “WP” proof. The bottom of the frame and trigger assembly are each marked with the serial number “59730”.

Barrel Length: 24”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a beaded blade dovetailed to the barrel above the muzzle. The rear sight is a “U”-notch elevator sight dovetailed to the top rear of the barrel. The top tang is drilled, tapped and filled for a tang sight (none present).

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece walnut featuring a ribbed forend with a smooth flat underside, a semi-pistol grip, a straight comb and checkered steel buttplate. The stocks have some scattered minor nicks and scratches. There are a couple of more notable marks in the belly near the toe. There is thinning finish around the rear edge of the buttstock. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 13 3/8″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The plate has light wear and minor oxidation around the edges with well defined checkering. Overall, the stocks are in Very Good-plus condition.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Original

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 10 out of 10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 95% of its metal finish. The finish is thinning at most edges. There is some minor finish wear on the top of the barrel behind the front sight. There are some scattered small nicks and scratches, most notable on the top of the receiver. There are a few spots of minor oxidation. The action shows operational wear. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle is in about Fine condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this firearm. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None

Our Assessment: This Winchester model 61 is a pump-action rifle with tubular magazine that takes .22 caliber rounds. The Model 61 was introduced by Winchester in 1932 in response to products introduced by their competitors. While the Model 1890 had an exposed hammer, competing rifles were being made which had an enclosed receiver, giving less chance for debris to interrupt the action. Winchester’s Model 61 was their response, forgoing the external hammer for those customers who preferred the enclosed design. This example was made in 1942, as production of these rifles steeply declined while Winchester started building arms for WWII. It is in Fine condition, having very little wear for an 82 year old rimfire rifle. This would make a great addition to a Winchester collection, but should also still prove to be a great shooter. Please see our photos, good luck and happy bidding!

Please forgive any typos, I was educated in California. -Bud