Make: Winchester

Model: 1903

Serial Number: 45716

Year of Manufacture: 1908 / C&R

Caliber: .22 Winchester Automatic

Action Type: Blowback Operated Semi-Automatic with Tubular Buttstock Magazine

Barrel Length: 20”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a patented beaded blade dovetailed to the barrel. The rear sight is a v-notch sight dovetailed to the barrel with screw elevation fine

adjustment.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two piece smooth walnut with straight grip, straight comb, steel crescent buttplate, and capped forend. There are scattered scratches and compression marks. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 13 1/4” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. Overall, the stocks are in Fine condition.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is well defined. There is light erosion throughout the bore. In this writer's opinion the bore rates 6.5/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 70% of its metal finish. There are scratches scattered about the receiver. There is thinning on the leading edges and at the muzzle. There is light intermittent oxidation. The action shows operational wear. The screw heads are sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle is in Very Good condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.

Our Assessment: This Winchester Model 1903 self loading rifle, manufactured in 1908, represents one of the earliest successful semi automatic sporting rifles produced in the United States. Designed specifically around the proprietary .22 Winchester Automatic cartridge, the Model 1903 marked Winchester’s entry into reliable blowback operated rimfire rifles and set the stage for later developments in semi automatic sporting arms. Condition remains very respectable for an early self loader of this era. The rifle retains a substantial amount of original blue finish with expected thinning on the edges and light operational wear, while the walnut stocks remain solid and well shaped with only scattered handling marks. The bore shows defined rifling with light erosion consistent with age, and the action functions correctly. Overall, this is an honest and well preserved example of Winchester’s pioneering semi automatic rimfire rifle, offering strong early production character and historical significance.