Make: Winchester

Model: 88

Serial Number: 53013

Year of Manufacture: 1957 / ATF Classification: C&R

Caliber/Gauge: .243 Winchester

Action Type: Lever action, detachable magazine

Barrel Length: 22"

Sights/Optics: The front sight is a hooded beaded blade atop a serrated a base fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is an adjustable elevation u-notch dovetailed into the barrel. There is a Redfield Bear Cub 4 power scope mounted atop the receiver. The glass is a little foggy and the scope rates in Good condition.

Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The furniture is one piece wood with a checkered semi pistol grip, straight comb, checkered forend, and a checkered synthetic Winchester buttplate. The buttplate has light handling wear. The furniture has scattered pressure dings. scuffs, and scratches. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 13.75" from the face of the trigger to the butt. The furniture rates in Very Good condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp with light fouling. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 9.5/10.

Overall Condition: This firearm retains about 98% of its original metal finish. The finish shows a few light scratches and some flecks of surface oxidation. The screw heads are unmarred and retain turnable slots. The markings are clear and complete. Overall, this firearm rates in Very Good Plus 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: Scope & one magazine

Our Assessment: This Winchester Model 88 was manufactured in 1957 and qualifies as a Curio and Relic rifle. Produced by Winchester, the Model 88 was one of the most innovative lever-action sporting rifles of the postwar era. Featuring a rotating multi-lug bolt, detachable box magazine, and the ability to safely chamber modern high-pressure cartridges, the Model 88 bridged the gap between traditional lever actions and contemporary bolt-action hunting rifles. Early examples chambered in .243 Winchester remain especially popular with collectors and hunters.

Chambered in .243 Winchester with a 22 inch barrel, this rifle is paired with a Redfield Bear Cub scope, a desirable period optic well suited to the rifle's era and intended purpose. The .243 Winchester is renowned for its flat trajectory, light recoil, and versatility on varmints and deer-sized game. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 9.5 out of 10, indicating excellent internal condition with strong rifling. The action functions correctly.

The furniture rates in Very Good condition with light handling wear and solid structure. This firearm retains approximately 98% of its original metal finish, presenting an exceptionally clean appearance for an early Model 88. Overall, this firearm rates in Very Good Plus condition and stands as a clean 1957 Winchester Model 88 equipped with a classic Redfield Bear Cub scope. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids!