Winchester Model 61 .22WMR 24” Pump Action Rimfire Rifle MFD 1962 C&R

SOLD FOR: $1,782.99

LSB#: LSB250726MN011

Make: Winchester

Model: 61

Serial Number: 295123 

Year of Manufacture: 1962

Caliber: .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (WMR)

Action Type: Pump Action, fed by Tubular Magazine

Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “-WINCHESTER- / -TRADE MARK- / -MADE IN U.S.A.- / –MODEL 61- / 22 WIN. MAG. R.F.”. The top of the barrel and the top of the receiver are marked with a circled “WP” proof mark. The bottom of the receiver is marked with the serial number “295123”. 

Barrel Length: 24”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a beaded blade, dovetailed to the barrel. The rear sight is a U-notch sight on a riser, dovetailed to the barrel. The top of the receiver is grooved for optics. 

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are a two-piece walnut, with semi-pistol grip, straight comb, checkered plastic buttplate, and a serrated forend. The LOP measures 13 1/2″ from the front of the trigger to the rear of the buttplate. The stocks show light signs of wear, with light scratches and dings scattered throughout. There are no chips or cracks. The stocks fit the frame tightly, with no play. Overall, the stocks rate in Fine to Excellent condition. 

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright, with sharp rifling. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10/10. 

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 90% of its original metal finish. The balance of the finish shows light wear, with thinning finish on the back end of the magazine tube from operation of the action, and some light surface corrosion on the top of the barrel, behind the front sight. The markings are clear and legible. The screw heads are sharp. Overall, this rifle rates in Fine to Excellent condition. 

Mechanics: The action functions correctly, as does the cross-bolt safety. We did not fire this rifle, but we did perform a mechanic’s check. 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 61 is a classic American pump-action rimfire with a tidy, straightforward design that has long appealed to shooters who want a reliable, easy-to-use small-bore rifle. This 1962 C&R example presents honestly for its age and will interest both collectors of post-war Winchesters and shooters who want a vintage, full-length .22 WMR for hunting or recreational range use.

Chambered in .22 WMR, the cartridge offers a meaningful step up in velocity and terminal performance over .22 LR while remaining economical and easy to source. Notable selling points on this offering include the long 24″ barrel for enhanced velocity and sight radius, a bright bore we rate 10/10, original two-piece walnut stocks in Fine–Excellent condition, and the factory grooved receiver that allows optic mounting for modern use. 

Cosmetically the metal shows about 90% of the original bluing with expected operational wear—finish thinning at the rear of the magazine tube and light surface corrosion behind the front sight—but no structural damage. Mechanically the pump action and cross-bolt safety function correctly as verified during our check. For collectors, the vintage date and solid originality make this a desirable, honest example.

Overall, this Model 61 is a well-preserved, usable period piece that balances collectible pedigree with practical utility that will serve well in a Winchester collection, and/or in many small game hunting scenarios. Please check out our high quality photos, and good luck on your bids! – J.D.