Make: Winchester

Model: 61

Serial Number: 6514

Year of Manufacture: 1932 / ATF Classification: C&R

Caliber/Gauge: .22 Short, Long, & Long Rifle

Action Type: Pump-Action (Slide-Action), Tubular Magazine

Barrel Length: 24"

Sights/Optics: The front sight is a brass brass-beaded post dovetailed into the barrel. The rear sight is an adjustable elevation u-notch dovetailed into the barrel. The rear sight elevator has been replaced and/or altered.

Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is wood with a straight comb, semi-pistol grip, 11 rib/notch forend, and a checkered metal buttplate. The buttplate shows light wear mainly on the edges. The furniture shows light to moderate wear with scattered pressure dings, scuffs, and scratches. There are two dings on and just behind the semi-pistol grip on the left side of the buttstock . Most of the scuffs are near the rear of the buttstock where it meets the buttplate. The LOP measures 13.25" from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. There are no chips or cracks. This furniture rates in Very Good condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp with light fouling. There is faint erosion in the bore towards the muzzle. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 8.5/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its metal finish. The receiver shows light edge wear and faint freckling on the right side. There is light finish loss on the magazine tube from operation. The bolt shows light operational wear. The barrel shows finish loss where the forend rubs while cycling the action. Additionally, there are some small scratches and freckling scattered along the barrel. The screw heads show light tooling and retain strong slots. The takedown screw has some surface oxidation present. The markings are clear and complete. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fine 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 is an exceptional early production example of Winchester's landmark hammerless slide action rimfire. Approximately 98% of the original blue finish remains, with deep, even color across the barrel, receiver, and magazine components. The rifle retains matching numbered parts, an important point of originality and collector appeal, especially on a first year Model 61. The stock and forend show clean lines and finish, presenting a crisp, well preserved appearance that is rarely encountered on rifles from this early production period.

Mechanically, the rifle remains strong and correct. The bore rates 8.5 out of 10, showing good brightness and well defined rifling with light, expected wear. The action functions correctly and delivers the smooth, refined pump stroke that distinguished the Model 61 from earlier exposed hammer designs. The 24" barrel gives the rifle a graceful sporting profile and an excellent sight radius, contributing to its natural balance and handling.

As a 1932 first year Model 61 with outstanding remaining finish, matching numbers, and correct mechanical function, this rifle represents a significant milestone in Winchester rimfire development. Early examples in this level of condition are highly desirable and stand among the finest representations of Winchester's transition to modern slide action design.