Make: Winchester

Model: Model 72 “Gallery Special”

Serial Number: NSNV

Year of Manufacture: 1938 through 1949, C&R

Caliber: .22 Short

Action Type: Bolt Action, Tube-Fed

Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “MADE IN U.S.A.WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO / NEW HAVEN, CONN.-PATENT PENDING.-”, “MODEL 72- WINCHESTER / -22 SHORT - TRADE MARK-”. The top of the receiver and barrel are marked with Winchester WP proofs. The markings on the barrel indicate that this model was produced prior to the pause in production during WWII.

Barrel Length: 25”

Sights/Optics: The front sight is a hooded beaded blade dovetailed to the barrel (the bead has broken away). The rear sight is a u-notch elevator sight dovetailed to the barrel.

Stock Configuration and Condition: The stock is one piece smooth walnut with semi-pistol grip, straight comb, and Winchester checkered hard rubber buttplate. The LOP measures 13 1/2” from the front of the trigger to the rear of the buttplate. There are no chips or cracks. There are a few light nicks, scratches, and compressions. Overall, the stock rates in Fine condition.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 80% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows light operational wear. There is intermittent oxidation and rust freckling scattered about the barrel and trigger guard. There is thinning at the leading edges. The screw heads are sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in Very Good condition.

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

Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: None.

Our Assessment: The Winchester Model 72 “Gallery Special” is a lesser-seen, rimfire variant of one of Winchester’s most beloved bolt-action rifles. Produced from 1938 until 1949, this .22 Short-only version was specifically designed for use in shooting galleries, carnivals, and training environments—where reduced recoil and noise were key. These rifles were built to handle high round counts while maintaining the accuracy and reliability Winchester was known for, and their restricted chambering makes them a unique footnote in rimfire history. This example, made before WWII production paused, features proper early markings and a tube-fed bolt action design that is both robust and intuitive.

With about 80% of its original blued finish remaining, a bright bore, and a smooth walnut stock in Fine condition, this rifle has survived the decades well. The front sight is missing its bead, though it remains serviceable for plinking or restoration. Gallery Specials don’t appear often, especially in shootable, original condition. Whether you’re a Winchester collector, a fan of rimfire oddities, or simply want a rifle that conjures memories of a bygone American pastime, this Model 72 Gallery Special offers both nostalgia and mechanical charm in a C&R-eligible package.