Winchester Model 61 .22 Shot Slide Pump Action Rifle MFD 1951 C&R
SOLD FOR: $3906
LSB#: 220106TB033
Make: Winchester
Model: 61 Smooth Bore
Serial Number: 147528
Year of Manufacture: 1951
Caliber: .22 Shot Only
Action Type: Takedown Pump Action with Tubular Magazine
Markings: The left barrel shoulder is marked “MADE IN NEW HAVEN. CONN. U.S. OF AMERICA / WINCHESTER PROOF STEEL”, “WINCHESTER / TRADE MARK”, and “MODEL 61 – 22 L. RIFLE / FOR SHOT ONLY”. The underside of the guard and the bottom of the receiver are marked with the serial number, “147528”.
Barrel Length: 24″
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a beaded blade.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The stocks are two-piece walnut with flat-bottom grooved slide handle, smooth semi-pistol grip, straight comb, and checkered steel butt plate. The buttstock has scattered minor nicks and light compressions, primarily in the lower areas. The forend has several minor compressions. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 13 1/2” from the front of the trigger to the back of the butt plate. The plate has some light wear with some light thinning. Overall, the stocks rate in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright. There is no erosion.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its metal finish. The magazine tube has some light-to-moderate operational wear. There is very very minor thinning on the forward edges of the receiver. The screw heads have minor tool marks with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in Fine-to-Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. There is a cross-bolt safety at the front of the trigger guard and a slide release at the left rear. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The Winchester Model 61 rifle was introduced in 1932, and was a hammerless design with a tubular magazine. It was actually released after the Model 62, which like the previous Models 1890 and 1906 also had a hammer. The Model 61 was Winchester’s answer to the hammerless Remington and Marlin rifles being produced. Round and octagon barrels were available in .22 Short, Long and Long Rifle, and the octagon barrels were also available in .22 WRF. After WWII, the octagon barrels were discontinued and the .22 WRF chambering was offered in round barrels. This is a 1951 vintage Model 61 rifle that is in Fine-to-Excellent condition with about 98% of its original finish remaining, strong mechanics, and a truly nice bore. And a smooth bore at that, for this is no mere Model 61, no, it is a smooth bore for .22 caliber shot only, making it an ideal gun for pesky birds. This version of the 61 is rather rare, and it could take its place as the jewel of a collection alongside its Model 1890, 1906, and 62 cousins. Good luck and happy bidding!