Make: Winchester
Model: 55
Serial Number: 535
Year of Manufacture: 1924 / C&R
Caliber: .30-30 Winchester Center Fire
Action Type: Lever Action Takedown Rifle fed by Half Magazine-Tube.
Barrel Length: 24"
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a Lyman beaded blade dovetailed into a base integral to the barrel. The rear sight is a flat-top u-notch elevator sight dovetailed to the barrel. The upper tang is drilled and tapped for a peep sight, none installed.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece smooth walnut with capped forend, straight grip, straight comb and serrated steel buttplate. The LOP measures 13 1/4" from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. There are scattered compressions, scratches, nicks, and small dings. There is a very small crack on the front right edge of the forend toward the cap and another small crack near the receiver on the same side. There is a crack that runs the length of the bottom of the forend. There are minor losses along the edges of the wrist at the receiver and tangs. Overall, the stocks rate in Fair condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is semi bright and the rifling is well defined. There is light erosion in the bore. There is minor fouling. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 6/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 20% of its metal finish. Most of the finish has worn to a dark mottled patina. There are intermittent spots of pitting and erosion. The action shows operational wear. There are scratches, nicks, and minor dings. The screw heads are tool marked with serviceable slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions properly. This rifle has a half-cock safety and its lever safety functions properly. We did not fire this rifle. 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 55 was introduced in 1924 as a streamlined takedown sporting rifle based on the highly successful Model 1894 action. Designed to provide hunters with a lighter, more economical Winchester lever gun, the Model 55 retained the proven .30-30 Winchester chambering while incorporating a half magazine tube and simplified stock configuration. Produced for only a short period before being replaced by the Model 64, early Model 55 rifles are increasingly appreciated by collectors for their unique place in Winchester’s interwar production and their connection to the legendary Model 1894 lineage.
This first-year production example is especially desirable with its three-digit serial number, original configuration, takedown design, and .30-30 Winchester chambering. Featuring a 24" barrel, half-length magazine tube, smooth walnut stocks, and original blue finish, this rifle displays honest field use with approximately 20% remaining finish, dark mottled patina, scattered pitting, and handling wear. The bore rates 6/10 with defined rifling and light erosion, while the action functions properly. For collectors seeking an early Winchester lever action outside the more common Model 1894 production, this first-year Model 55 offers a distinctive combination of rarity, historical significance, and classic Winchester craftsmanship.
