Make: Winchester

Model: 61

Serial Number: 165167

Year of Manufacture: 1951 / ATF Classification: C&R

Caliber/Gauge: .22 Short, Long, and Long Rifle

Action Type: Pump-Action, Tubular Magazine

Barrel Length: 24"

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 wood with a straight comb, semi-pistol grip, 17 rib/notch forend, and a checkered metal buttplate. The buttplate shows light wear with some oxidation in the grooves of the checkering. The stock shows very light wear with infrequent pressure dings and surface scratches. The LOP measures 13.25" from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. There are no chips or cracks. This furniture rates in Fine-plus condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp. There is faint surface oxidation towards the muzzle end of the bore, but no erosion. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 9/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 90% of its metal finish. There is moderate wear with scattered patina, freckling, and scratches. The screw heads range from unmarred to lightly tooled, but retain turnable slots.. The markings are clear and complete. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very 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 rifle presents as a solid mid century example of Winchester's hammerless slide action rimfire, retaining approximately 90% of its original blue finish. The metal surfaces show honest wear expected from firearms of this age, and the rifle retains matching numbered parts, an important point for originality and collector interest. The stock and forend maintain correct contours and present well, giving the rifle a balanced and authentic appearance consistent with careful use over time.

Mechanically, the rifle is strong. The bore rates 9 out of 10 with bright steel and well defined rifling, indicating light internal wear and excellent remaining accuracy potential. The action functions correctly and delivers the smooth, refined pump stroke that established the Model 61 as one of the finest rimfire slide action rifles ever produced. The 24" barrel provides a long sight radius and steady handling characteristics well suited to deliberate shooting.

As a 1951 production Model 61 with good remaining finish, matching numbers, a strong bore, and correct mechanical function, this rifle stands as a desirable representative of Winchester's postwar rimfire craftsmanship and one of the most respected pump action rimfires of the twentieth century.