Make: Winchester

Model: 02

Serial Number: None.

Year of Manufacture: Circa 1919-1931 / ATF Classification: C&R

Caliber/Gauge: .22 Short, Long, & Extra Long (.22 LR High Velocity should NOT be used in this rifle)

Action Type: Bolt-action, single shot, manually cocked.

Barrel Length: 18"

Sights/Optics: The front sight is a brass beaded blade dovetailed into the barrel. The rear sight is a V-notch dovetailed into the barrel.

Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a replacement one-piece wood. The buttstock has a straight comb, semi-pistol grip, finger-groove forend, and smooth hard rubber buttplate. The buttplate shows moderate wear with a crack on the left side. The furniture shows moderate wear with some scattered pressure dings and scuffs. Most notable are two filled holes on the forend, one on the bottom of the semi-pistol grip, and an unfilled hole near the bottom of the buttplate. The LOP measures 13.25" from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. There are no chips. This furniture rates in Good condition as not original to the gun.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is grey and the rifling is worn. There is moderate pitting and light oxidation in the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 4/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 5% of its metal finish. There is infrequent finish in protected areas and around raised features, the surfaces have mostly turned to an even patina. The finish shows dings, scuffs, and scratches with small spots of erosion. The screw heads are lightly tooled and retain strong slots. The markings are clear and complete. Overall, this rifle rates in about 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 is a solid example of Winchester's compact single shot rimfire from the early interwar period. Most metal surface have gone to patina and the stock has been replaced with a slightly larger, finger-grooved stock that fits the action well. The metal surfaces show scattered handling wear consistent with age, but overall presentation remains pleasing and clearly identifiable as an original Winchester product from this era. The 18 inch barrel gives the rifle a trim, handy profile that was well suited for training, small game, and utility use.

Mechanically, the rifle remains serviceable. The action functions correctly, retaining the simple, reliable single shot operation that made the Model 02 popular among farmers, youths, and recreational shooters in the 1920s. Lockup is correct and operation is straightforward and dependable.

Historically, the Model 02 represents Winchester's effort to provide an affordable, lightweight rimfire during the post World War I years, when demand for economical sporting arms was strong. Its ability to chamber .22 Short, Long, and Extra Long made it particularly versatile at a time when ammunition availability varied widely. This example stands as a well preserved, mechanically sound representative of Winchester’s early 20th century small bore production.