Make: High Standard

Model: Victor ML Series

Serial Number: ML53843

Year of Manufacture: 1979 / ATF Classification: Modern

Caliber/Gauge: .22 Long Rifle

Action Type: Semi automatic, detachable magazine

Barrel Length: 5.5", Vent-Rib. The bottom of the barrel is equipped with a barrel weight.

Sights/Optics: The front sight is a Patridge blade screw-secured to the front of the ventilated rib. The rear sight is a square notch adjustable for windage and elevation in a base mounted to the rear of the rib. The top of the rib is serrated to reduce glare.

Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut with a smooth thumbrest on the left panel for a right-handed shooter. The front and back strap are textured. The grips show light handling wear. The checkering shows light handling wear with a few small scuffs. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Fine condition.

Type of Finish: Blued with gold toned trigger, safety and mag release.

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp with light fouling. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 9.5/10.

Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 98% of its metal finish. There are a few marks on the front of the trigger guard as well as some light edge wear. The screw heads show little to no marring and retain turnable slots. Overall, this pistol rates in about Fine condition.

Mechanics: The action is a little stiff from old grease, but 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: One 10rd magazine

Our Assessment: This pistol presents in Fine overall condition, retaining approximately 98% of its original finish. The metal surfaces are clean and evenly preserved with light handling evidence, and the Victor's distinctive weighted barrel and competition oriented profile remain crisp and well defined. The ML Series configuration reflects High Standard's late era production, maintaining the classic Victor lines favored by serious target shooters.

Mechanically, the pistol is excellent. The bore rates 9.5 out of 10 with bright steel and sharp rifling, indicating light use. The action functions correctly with stiff, but smooth cycling and consistent operation. These characteristics helped make the Victor one of the most respected American made .22 target pistols of its time. Balance is steady and deliberate, well suited to precision shooting.

Historically, the High Standard Victor was a dominant force in bullseye and competition shooting from the 1960s through the 1970s. By 1979, the ML Series represented the mature refinement of the design, offering proven accuracy and reliability that remained competitive at the highest levels. In this level of condition, this Victor stands as a desirable and collectible example of one of the finest American target pistols ever produced.