Make: Winchester

Model: 1903

Serial Number: 24819

Year of Manufacture: 1907 / ATF Classification: C&R

Caliber/Gauge: .22 Winchester Automatic (NOT .22 LR)

Action Type: Semi Automatic, tube fed

Barrel Length: 20"

Sights/Optics: The front sight is a globe-style sight with aperture post dovetailed into the barrel. The rear sight is an adjustable elevation u-notch dovetailed into the barrel. There is a flip-up aperture sight mounted to the upper tang.

Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The two piece wood stock has a straight comb, straight wrist grip, capped forend, and a smooth steel crescent buttplate. There is moderate wear with scattered pressure dings, scuffs, and scratches. The forend is a little loose. The LOP measures 13.25" from the face of the trigger to the rear of the butt. There are multiple small chips. There are no cracks. Overall the furniture is in Good condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is grey and the rifling is worn. There is light erosion with scattered pitting throughout the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 6/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 65% of its metal finish. There are scuffs, scratches, edge wear, and patina throughout. 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 early production example of Winchester's first successful semi automatic rimfire rifle. Approximately 65% of the original finish remains, with the metal surfaces showing a balanced mix of remaining finish, handling wear, and honest patina consistent with long term use. The rifle retains matching serialized parts, an important point of originality on the Model 1903. The stock presents clean lines and finish appropriate for a rifle of this age.

Mechanically, the rifle is sound. The action functions correctly, cycling smoothly in the manner that helped establish the Model 1903 as a reliable and innovative design in the early twentieth century.

Historically, the Model 1903 occupies a significant place in Winchester history as the company's first semi automatic rifle and one of the earliest successful designs of its kind. Introduced at a time when self loading firearms were still experimental, it helped pave the way for later rimfire autoloaders. A 1907 production example like this represents the early adoption period of semi automatic sporting rifles and remains a desirable and historically important Winchester rimfire.