Winchester Model 71 Like 1886 Post-War .348 WCF Lever Action Rifle 1946 C&R

SOLD FOR: $1,725.00

LSB# LSB251210MB030

Make: Winchester Repeating Arms

Model: 71  

Serial Number: 23131

Year of Manufacture: 1946

Caliber: .348 Winchester

Action Type: Lever Action with a two thirds length tubular magazine.

Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “MADE IN NEW HAVEN, CONN. U.S. OF AMERICA / -WINCHESTER PROOF STEEL-“, “-WINCHESTER- / -TRADE MARK-“, “MODEL 71 – 348 W.C.F.-“. The top of the barrel at the rear and the top of the receiver at the front are each marked with an ovalled “WP” proof. The bottom of the receiver at the front is marked “23131”.

Barrel Length: 24″

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a beaded blade dovetailed to a textured, ramped base integral to the front of the barrel. The rear sight has been removed and the dovetail plugged. The left side of the receiver is drilled and tapped for receiver sight. There is a Lyman #56 receiver sight installed.  

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are 2-piece smooth walnut with pistol grip, fluted straight comb, semi-beavertail forend with steel cap, and checkered steel buttplate. The LOP measures 13 1/4? from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stocks have had some light sanding and refinish done. There are scratches, compression dents and other handling wear throughout. The forend has a little fore and aft movement. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the stocks are in Very Good condition for a refinish.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion in the bore. There is some stubborn fouling. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.  

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 95% of its metal finish. There are light scratches and handling marks throughout. There is light operational wear. There is some light pitting on the lever. The screw heads are lightly tooled but serviceable. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle is in Very Good condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The hammer has a half-cock safety. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None. 

Our Assessment: The Winchester Model 71 was introduced in 1935 as a refined successor to the legendary 1886, purpose-built around the powerful .348 Winchester cartridge. Produced by Winchester Repeating Arms Company in New Haven, this 1946 post-war example reflects the renewed civilian production that followed World War II. With its 24 inch barrel, semi-beavertail forend, pistol grip stock, and two-thirds length tubular magazine, the Model 71 embodies the strength and streamlined lines that made it one of the most respected big game lever actions of the twentieth century.

Chambered in .348 Winchester, a cartridge introduced specifically for the Model 71 and known for its authority on large North American game, this rifle retains a bright bore with sharp rifling and no erosion, showing only some stubborn fouling and rating 9 out of 10. The rifle retains approximately 95 percent of its original blued finish with light scratches, handling marks, and minor operational wear, including light pitting on the lever. Screw heads are lightly tooled but remain serviceable, and markings are clear. The rear barrel sight has been removed and the dovetail plugged, and a Lyman No. 56 receiver sight is installed on the left side of the receiver. The two-piece walnut stocks feature a pistol grip, fluted straight comb, semi-beavertail forend with steel cap, and checkered steel buttplate. The wood shows light sanding and refinish work along with scratches and compression dents. The forend has slight fore-and-aft movement but no cracks or chips, rating in Very Good condition for a refinish.

Mechanically, the lever action functions correctly and the hammer retains its half-cock safety position. As a 1946 production Model 71 in its original .348 WCF chambering, this rifle represents a desirable post-war example of one of Winchester’s most powerful and well-regarded lever actions. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids! MF