Winchester ~ Model 71 ~ 348 Winchester ~ 1952 Production

This is a Winchester Model 71 rifle made in 1952. The Model 71 was a continuation of the 1886 design, with a pistol grip, shorter magazine tube and round barrel, produced in only two variants, 24" and 20". This rifle is chambered in .348 WCF. The left side of the barrel is marked "MADE IN NEW, HAVEN CONN. U.S. OF AMERICA / -WINCHESTER / PROOF STEEL-", "WINCHESTER / -TRADE MARK-", "-MODEL 71-348 W.C.F.-". The top rear of the barrel and top front of the receiver are each marked with an ovalled "WP" proof. The bottom of the receiver at the front is marked "40851". The front sight is a hooded blade dovetailed to a textured ramped. The front sight hood appears to be incorrect for this rifle. The rear dovetail sight is filled with a blank and a Redfield peep sight is attached the rear left side of the frame. The stocks are 2-piece checkered walnut, pistol grip, fluted comb, semi-beavertail forend with steel cap, and checkered steel shotgun-style buttplate. There is a sling mount screwed near the toe and another clamped on the bottom of the magazine tube. This rifle remains in good overall condition with wear consistent with a used gun of this age.