Pre-64 Winchester Model 43 Standard .22 Hornet Bolt Action Rifle C&R 1950
SOLD FOR: $1,476
WOA#: WY240210TM023
Make: Winchester
Model: 43
Serial Number: 20568A
Year of Manufacture: 1950
Caliber: .22 Hornet
Action Type: Bolt Action, 3 round detachable box magazine fed
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “MADE IN NEW HAVEN, CONN. U.S. OF AMERICA / -WINCHESTER PROOF STEEL-“, “-WINCHESTER- / -TRADE MARK-” and “MODEL 43-22 HORNET-”. The right side of the receiver is marked “20568A”. The top of the receiver ring and the barrel are marked with the Winchester circled “WP” proof marks. The underside of the bolt body is marked “20568”.
Barrel Length: 24”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a beaded blade dovetailed into a hooded, textured, ramped base fixed to the front of the barrel. The rear sight is an adjustable u-notch buckhorn blade. The left-rear of the receiver is drilled and tapped for scope or peep-sight mounts.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The walnut stock has a semi-pistol grip, two sling swivels, and a checkered metal buttplate. The buttplate has areas of oxidation and light surface rust between the peaks. There are compression marks, scuffs, and scratches throughout the wood. There is a deep compression mark on the right side of the stock below the barrel. There are a few long drag lines behind the bolt handle. There are faint pale discolored freckles on the grip and the buttstock. There is a line of wear along the front side of the grip. The LOP measures 13.25″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. Overall, the stock is in about Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is very light erosion in the bore.
In this writer’s opinion, this bore rates 9 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 80% of its metal finish. There are scuffs and scratches throughout the metal surfaces. The finish is thinning along the left rear side of the receiver. There is light pitting on the sides of the barrel along the stockline. There are a couple deep and long scratches on the bottom of the trigger guard. There are tool marks near the rear trigger guard assembly screw, along with surface rust in the front and rear creases. There is surface rust on the inside of the trigger guard. The bolt has spots of oxidation and shows usage wear. The screw heads show moderate to heavy use. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle is in about Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: The rifle comes with a 3 round magazine, its serialized factory box, the original sales tag, an instruction manual, a Winchester retail price list from 1952, a Winchester Ammunition Handbook, three vintage paper jack rabbit targets, and a gun sock.
Our Assessment: The Winchester Model 43 Bolt Action Rifle holds a special place in the hearts of firearms collectors due to its historical significance and scarcity. Produced for only a brief period from 1948 to 1953, the Model 43 was designed as a lightweight and versatile rifle suitable for hunting small to medium-sized game. With its sleek lines, smooth bolt action, and classic walnut stock, the Winchester Model 43 exudes the timeless charm and craftsmanship that Winchester firearms are known for. This example was made in 1950 and is chambered in .22 Hornet. The stock has moderate wear, with a few deeper compression marks scattered throughout. The metal retains most of its finish but there is thinning and some areas of oxidation. The bore is bright with very little erosion and should make for a great shooter. The rifle comes with its serialized factory box, the original sales tag, an instruction manual, a Winchester retail price list from 1952, a Winchester Ammunition Handbook, and three vintage paper jack rabbit targets. This would fit into any Winchester collection. Please see our photos.
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