Make: Winchester

Model: 74

Serial Number: 322194A

Year of Manufacture: 1952 / ATF Classification: C&R

Caliber/Gauge: .22 Long Rifle

Action Type: Semi Automatic, Tubular Magazine

Barrel Length: 22"

Sights/Optics: The front sight is a beaded post dovetailed into the barrel. The rear sight is an adjustable elevation u-notch dovetailed into the barrel.

Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is one-piece smooth wood with a straight comb, semi-pistol grip, smooth forend, and a checkered metal buttplate. The buttplate shows no wear. The furniture shows only faint storage wear. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 13.5" from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. This furniture rates in Fine Plus to Excellent condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is obstructed with the factory grease. This writer elected to not remove the grease to preserve the originality of the rifle.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 99% of its original finish. The finish shows only faint marks from storage in the box over the years. There is still factory grease present on the end of the barrel. The screw heads are unmarred and retain turnable slots. The markings are clear and complete. Overall, this rifle rates in Excellent condition.

Mechanics: We did not assemble this firearm to preserve the integrity of its originality. 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: High condition serial matching box and instruction manual

Our Assessment: This Winchester Model 74 dates to 1952 production and represents Winchester's postwar approach to an affordable, reliable semi-automatic rimfire sporting rifle. Introduced in the late 1930s, the Model 74 was designed as a simplified alternative to the more refined Model 63, offering dependable self-loading operation in a utilitarian package aimed at recreational shooters and small-game hunters. By the late 1940s, the Model 74 had become a familiar fixture in American households, valued for its straightforward design and ease of use.

Chambered in .22 Long Rifle and fed by a rear-loading tubular magazine housed in the buttstock, the rifle emphasizes simplicity and balance. The 22 inch barrel provides a steady sight radius and contributes to the rifle's mild recoil and smooth handling characteristics.

Overall, this example is in quite outstanding condition and is still housed in its original box with manual. Most of these guns saw hard use in the hands of 20th Century American children. To find one like this is quite uncommon, and it will make a wonderful addition to any collection. This Model 74 stands as a well-preserved postwar rimfire from Winchester Repeating Arms. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid!