Winchester Model 74 .22 Long Rifle Semi-Auto Rimfire Rifle 1941 C&R

Make: Winchester

Model: Model 74

Serial Number: 89176

Year of Manufacture: 1941, C&R

Caliber: .22 Long Rifle

Action Type: Semi-Auto, Fed by Buttstock Magtube.

Markings: The left side of the receiver is marked “89176”. The left side of the receiver is marked “MADE IN U.S.A. WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. / NEW HAVEN. CONN”, “-MODEL 74- / -PATENT PENDING.- 22 LONG RIFLE”, “-WINCHESTER- / -TRADE MARK-”. The top of the receiver and barrel are marked with Winchester WP proofs.

Barrel Length: 24”

Sights/Optics: The front sight is a beaded blade dovetailed to the barrel. 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, reinforcement pin, and checkered steel buttplate. The LOP measures 13 3/8” from the front of the trigger to the back of the steel buttplate. There are no chips or cracks. There are scattered light handling marks 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 95% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows light operation wear. There is minor thinning on the leading edges. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in Fine 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: This Winchester Model 74, launched in 1939, represents an innovative chapter in the evolution of self-loading rimfire rifles. Constructed with an 8.5-inch-long steel tube receiver, just an inch in diameter, this rifle integrates a blowback-operated bolt and a tubular magazine nestled within the buttstock, demonstrating a unique engineering approach for the era. One of its notable features is the ability to remove the bolt from the rear of the receiver, a design choice that significantly simplifies maintenance and cleaning from the rear, unlike most vintage semi-automatic rimfire rifles. Visually, the Model 74 is immediately recognizable due to the squared-off rear of its action, bearing a resemblance to the "humpback" profile of the classic Browning Auto-5 shotgun. This distinct silhouette not only adds to its aesthetic appeal but also to its historical value. Additionally, the safety mechanism of the Model 74 is distinct—a flat, knurl-ended crossbolt meticulously dovetailed into the top of the receiver, enhancing both safety and ease of use. The rifle’s ergonomic design extends to its petite charging handle, which is strategically positioned in a slot on the right rear of the action, directly above the trigger. This placement optimizes ease of operation for right-handed shooters, allowing them to quickly chamber a round with a simple wrist rotation and a hook of the forefinger. Originally released in .22 Short, the Model 74 expanded its offerings in 1940 with the addition of a .22 Long Rifle version, though the .22 Short was discontinued in 1952. Production of the Winchester Model 74 ceased in 1955, concluding a 17-year production run during which approximately 406,574 units were manufactured. This historical significance, coupled with its innovative design features, makes the Winchester Model 74 a coveted item for collectors and enthusiasts of vintage firearms, offering both a glimpse into the past and a testament to the ingenuity of its time.