Make: Winchester Repeating Arms Co.

Model: Model 1907

Serial Number: 54098

Year of Manufacture: 1953, C&R

Caliber: .351 Winchester Self-Loading

Action Type: Semi-Automatic Rifle, Detachable Magazine Fed

Barrel Length: 20”

Markings:

The left side of the receiver is marked with the serial number “54098” both above and below the trigger. The left side of the barrel is marked “MADE IN NEW HAVEN CONN. U.S. OF AMERICA / WINCHESTER PROOF STEEL” forward of the rear sight and “WINCHESTER – TRADE MARK – MODEL 07 – .351 CAL. –” behind it. The barrel and receiver each bear the oval “WP” Winchester proof mark, indicating they were factory proof-tested together. The rear peep sight is marked “| 0 – 15 – 30 – 45 – LYMAN” with graduated elevation increments.

Sights / Optics:

The front sight is a blade topped with a white bead, dovetailed directly to the barrel. The rear sight is a factory Lyman aperture peep sight mounted to the rear receiver bridge, offering fine elevation adjustments with reference markings from 0 to 45 yards.

Stock Configuration & Condition:

The rifle is mounted in a two-piece walnut stock with a smooth semi-pistol grip buttstock and forearm. The wood shows scattered shallow dings, handling marks, and a few light scuffs consistent with its age and use. There are no cracks or chips. The butt stock has lost its sheen and may have been smoothed. The wood rates in about Very Good condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition:

The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is very light erosion scattered in the grooves. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9/10.

Overall Condition:

This rifle retains about 95% of its original finish. The balance of the finish shows edge thinning, scattered light wear, and minor surface freckling on some high-contact areas. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are crisp and fully legible. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good condition.

Mechanics:

The action functions correctly. The Model 1907 uses a blowback-operated semi-automatic system designed to handle the powerful .351 WSL cartridge. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories:

One detachable 10-Round magazine is included.

Our Assessment:

The Winchester Model 1907 is a historically significant rifle that helped pioneer semi-automatic sporting and law enforcement firearms in the early 20th century. Originally introduced in 1907 and designed to fire the hard-hitting .351 WSL cartridge, this model saw use with police departments, penitentiaries, and even some militaries around the world. Its distinctive straight-blowback action and detachable magazine design gave it an edge in a time dominated by lever-actions. The later models are characterized by more durable, thick stocks and improved charging plunger with a finger-hook.

This example presents with a strong bore, clear markings, and the correct Lyman rear peep sight—a desirable upgrade that greatly improves shootability. The white bead front sight is another practical feature that would have appealed to lawmen of the era. Whether you’re a Winchester collector, a fan of early semi-automatic designs, or someone who appreciates unusual calibers and configurations, this Model 1907 deserves serious consideration.

A solid, shootable piece of American arms history, this rifle bridges the gap between the old world of lever guns and the modern age of autoloaders.