This rifle was acquired out of a collection in Louisiana where the owner believed it to be an authentic Winchester-built rifle. And indeed, it does appear as an authentic Winchester rifle - which would make it exceedingly rare. Winchester offered a sight-delete (sightless) option as a special-order feature, but did not advertise this until the mid-1950s at a time when the popularity of scopes was greatly expanding. However, after close examination of this rifle, we have determined it was not produced in the Winchester factory, but is a very finely done custom, made to look exactly like a factory rifle.
Although this rifle is a near-perfect replica and very difficult to distinguish from a factory-built rifle, we want to be very clear it is a custom rifle. No doubt, it was produced with the intent to fool a buyer into believing it was a rare rifle produced by Winchester. And indeed, the owner of the collection this rifle came from believed it to be authentic. We are being clear here about its origins to ensure the next buyer knows exactly what they are getting.
The barrel is a near perfect duplication of the factory standard barrel with a factory-appearing roll stamp. The balance of the rifle is all correct factory parts for a .22 Hornet Standard rifle with original appearing finishes.
The bluing on this rifle grades at 98%, showing almost no wear, the only exception being slight wear on the extractor and extractor ring. There are two small scratches in the finish on the barrel and one on the extractor, but no dings or other damage.
Without any wear or pitting, the only way we know this barrel has ever been fired is by the slight amount of copper in the bore. We rate this as a 10 out of 10. Borescope verified.
The Monte Carlo stock is in near mint condition but had a chip in the toe and has a small scratch beside the receiver. The chip has been repaired, but the repair is visible. The checkering is clean and crisp without any flat spots or dings. The steel butt plate is in excellent condition.
NOTE: This item can only be shipped directly to you if you are an FFL or C&R license holder. If this is not the case, the item must be shipped to an FFL holder near you who can complete the transfer. If needed, we are happy to assist you in locating an FFL holder near you who can assist in this way.
This item is only available for shipment to US addresses.
