Make: Winchester
Model: 54
Serial Number: 48376A (bolt serial does not match)
Year of Manufacture: 1936 / ATF Classification: C&R
Caliber/Gauge: .30-06 Springfield
Action Type: Bolt action, controlled round feed, blind magazine
Barrel Length: 24" (has a remarked Winchester Model 70 barrel)
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a globe sight dovetailed into a stippled base fixed to the barrel. An adjustable Lyman aperture is screwed into the left side of the receiver. An R.A. Litschert Model B 8 power scope is mounted to the bases on the barrel and receiver. The glass is a bit foggy and the scope rates in Good condition.
Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The refinished furniture is one piece wood with a straight comb, smooth semi-pistol grip, wide forend, sling swivels at the front and rear, and a checkered metal buttplate. The buttplate shows light edge wear. The furniture shows pressure dings, drag lines, and surface scratches. The cutout for the bolt handle has been filled. Some of the wood behind the upper tang is starting to chip. The LOP measures 13.75" from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The furniture rates in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Refinished
Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp with light fouling. There is light erosion throughout the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 8/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 80% of its nonoriginal metal finish. The finish shows stock residue, light patina, and spots of thinning. The screw heads are lightly tooled and retain turnable slots. The Model 54 rollmark on the barrel is fake, the original Model 70 mark can be faintly seen beneath. Additionally, the markings on the bottom of the barrel have almost been completely wiped. The bolt handle is a custom replacement as well. Overall, this rifle rates in Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this firearm. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: This custom Winchester Model 54 was originally manufactured in 1936 and qualifies as a Curio and Relic firearm. Produced by Winchester Repeating Arms, the Model 54 was Winchester's first successful modern bolt-action sporting rifle and served as the direct predecessor to the legendary Model 70. This example has been extensively customized in the style of the desirable Model 54 Target Rifle.
Chambered in .30-06 Springfield with a 24 inch barrel, this rifle is fitted with a vintage R.A. Litschert target scope, a highly regarded optic among competitive shooters during the mid-20th century. It should be noted that the barrel is actually from a Winchester Model 70. Although it bears a Model 54 rollmark, that marking is not original, and the original Model 70 barrel marking can still be faintly seen beneath it. The bolt handle is a custom replacement, and the original bolt handle cutout in the stock has been filled. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 8 out of 10, indicating good rifling with moderate, honest use. The action functions correctly.
The refinished furniture rates in Very Good condition with light handling wear. Approximately 80% of the rifle's non-original blued finish remains, presenting well while reflecting its customized history. Overall, this rifle represents an interesting custom Winchester Model 54 built to emulate the appearance of a factory Target Model rather than an original example. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids!
