Winchester Model 63 .22 LR 20” Semi-Auto Takedown Rifle & Scope, 1935 C&R
SOLD FOR: $2,545
LSB#: 240127BS002
Make: Winchester
Model: 63
Serial Number: 6455
Year of Manufacture: 1935, C&R
Caliber: .22 LR
Action Type: Semi-Automatic with Tubular Magazine in Buttstock
Barrel Length: 20”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a beaded blade that is dovetailed to the barrel. The rear sight is filled. The top of the barrel is mounted with a Winchester B3 scope (Fine). The glass is clear, the scope shows light wear and oxidation, it remains in Very Good condition.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece smooth walnut with semi-pistol grip, straight comb and steel buttplate. The stock shows light wear from handling and storage. The wood shows some scattered light compressions, scuffs and scratches. The LOP measures 13 ½” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. This stock rates in about Very Good Plus overall 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 and for the age, this bore rates a 10 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 95-96% of its metal finish. The buttplate and nose cap show oxidation and are mostly devoid of finish. There is light edge wear and loss near the muzzle. The balance of the finish shows light wear from handling and storage. There are a few scratches and scuffs. The metal shows some small patches of light oxidation. The screw heads are sharp, the top tang screw heads show tool marks and stick out a little. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good to Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions Correctly. The crossbolt safety functions correctly. We did not fire this firearm. We have cleaned this firearm and performed a mechanic’s check but expect many will want to clean the firearm again depending on their standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: As previously mentioned, this rifle comes mounted with a Winchester scope.
Our Assessment: When Winchester came out with their Model 1903 semi-automatic rifle, they chambered it in .22 Winchester Automatic. This was a smokeless powder round with a case slightly larger than a .22 Long cartridge to prevent the use of .22 rimfire ammunition loaded with black powder, which was still prevalent at the time. As time went by, the new .22 Long Rifle cartridges made with smokeless powder became more available and thus cheaper than the .22 Win. Auto rounds. The .22 Long Rifle cartridge was also slightly hotter than the .22 Win. Auto, which was on a par with the .22 Long cartridge. In 1933, Winchester redesigned the Model 1903 to accept the .22 Long Rifle cartridges and the Model 63 was born.
This is a pre-war, third year production Model 63 made in 1935. The rifle has a grooved buttstock for loading rounds in the magazine tube, and an operating rod that protrudes through the front of the forend’s nosecap. This rifle has been well maintained and is well preserved, in Nice overall condition, showing light wear. It retains an excellent bore and tip top mechanics. Whether you’re looking to add to your Winchester collection or just have an affinity for classic .22 autoloaders, this is a neat rifle to add to any collection. Please see our photos, good luck and happy bidding!
-Robert
