EARLY MODEL 53 IN SCARCE 32-20, #4XXX, MADE 1925

Description:
EARLY MODEL 53 IN SCARCE 32-20, #4XXX, MADE 1925. Most collectors don’t realize what a limited production rifle the M-53 is. It was introduced in 1924 with production ceasing in 1932 with only a little over 15,000 made. The .25-20 was the standard caliber for the M-53 with 16,905 made. A distant second was .32-20 with only 4,718 made and finally .44-40 with 3,293 produced. This example that was made in the first full year of production is tight mechanically with strong safety half-cock and minty bright bore. As is typical of 1920s vintage Winchester lever guns, the receiver has flaked to gray with some minor blue in the most protected areas, some thinning blue on the bolt and good blue on the loading gate. The receiver screw heads do not look turned. Fine barrel blue with some thinning toward the forward portion. Still shows some blue on the forend cap. Buckhorn rear sight with elevator bar intact and blade/bead front sight. Stock and forearm are excellent but feel very “smooth” as if the wood has been steel-wooled but not sanded as the wood to metal fit is good. Very attractive densely grained walnut with correct original serrated steel butt plate. A very decent 101 year old limited production Winchester in a scarce caliber. 
 

Curio/Relic: Yes
Rifle Caliber: .32-20 Winchester
Manufacturer: WINCHESTER
Model: MODEL 53
Serial Number: 4XXX
Barrel Length: 22
Condition: FINE
Bore Condition: EXCELLENT

Price: $1,595.00