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Winchester model 1907 Rifle For The British Royal Flying Corps - World War I
Winchester model 1907 Rifle For The British Royal Flying Corps - World War I
Click Photo to Enlarge
Guns International #: 101209118
Category - Winchester Rifles
- Winchester Rifles - Semi-Auto Pre-War
Seller's Information
When emailing or calling sellers direct,
please mention that you saw their listing on GunsInternational.com
Seller: A & A Gaines Antiques
Member Since: 11/2/08
State:
Rhode Island
Zip: 02840
Country: United States
Phone:
(401) 846-0538
Active Listings: 0
Total Listings: 66
Seller Type: Private Seller
Return Policy: 3 day inspection and return policy on used guns and accessories.
3 days
3 days
Payment Methods: USPS Postal Money Order or Bank Check
Winchester model 1907 Rifle For The British Royal Flying Corps - World War I
Description:
Shown here is one of two known surviving Winchester model 1907 semi-automatic rifles of an order of 120. Such rifles were ordered by the British Royal Flying Corps from Winchester in World War I.
Early in WW I the airplane was discovered to be very useful for observing enemy troop movements, artillery positions, etc. This was the first large scale military use of aircraft and the opposing powers lost no time in sending their pilots and observers over enemy lines to gather intelligence. At first observation airplanes operated in safety since effective anti-aircraft weapons had not yet been developed. However pilots and observers soon began taking firearms aloft to use against enemy aviators. Due to limitations in engine power and fragile airframe designs, observation planes of 1914-1915 couldn't carry pilot, observer, observation equipment, plus the additional weight of machineguns and ammunition. For a time hand held small arms had to do and a few recently developed dependable semi-automatic rifles could fill the bill.
Some military officers thought the Winchester model 1907 could be a good choice for aviators. It was compact, handy, and used detatchable magazines (holding 10-15 rounds) a number of which could be carried in an observer's cramped cockpit.
The British Royal Flying Corps ordered 120 Winchester model 1907 semi-automatic rifles from Winchester Repeating Arms Co. in 1915. These weapons were intended to be issued to aircrews of British observation aircraft for use against enemy aircraft. The .351 Winchester was only a mid-range cartridge but its bullet was substiantial and the Royal Flying Corps had incendiary ammunition developed which would be effective against wood framed and highly flammable canvas covered enemy planes.
Aircrews quickly discovered it was very cold at their flying altitudes and were forced to adopt heavy flying suits and gloves. This made it neccessary to modify Royal Flying Corps Winchester 1907 rifles for use by airmen. Winchester 1907 trigger guards, operating lever handles, and magazine releases were redesigned to allow use with the heavy flying suits. The rifles were fitted with these improvements, including having their triggers checkered, at a military arsenal. The RFC also had the rifle's frames modified for attachment of canvas bags to catch ejected empty cartridge cases ( caught in a slipstream ejected cartridge cases could damage a plane's wooden airframe, canvas covering, and external control wires).
During 1915 considerable advances were made in aircraft engine and airframe design such that machineguns with adequate ammunition supply could not only be mounted on airplanes but also be synchronized to fire through propeller arcs. This ended the brief aerial employment of hand held semi-automatic firearms in above the trenches.
At the present time only two British Royal Flying Corps Winchester model 1907 rifles are known to have survived, this rifle #28567, and another #30928 which was sold by Rock Island Company, Sept. 11, 2015, lot #1663. Price realized: $9,200.00.
The Royal Flying Corps Winchester model 1907 air service rifle is described and pictured in the following publications: 'British Secondary Small Arms 1914-1919", A.O.Edwards, Solo Publications, Kent, England, PP 26-31, 'Winchester Repeating Arms Company ; Its History Development From 1865 to 1981", herbert G. Houze, Krause pub. Inc. 1994, PP 180-181, "A Winchester for World War I Air Combat', Alan Gaines, The Winchester Collector, Winter 2018, PP 40-43.
CONDITION: This rifle is in excellent as issued condiion. the barrel, forend cap, and magazine retain 95% original fctory blue finish with some light handling marks. The bore is very fine with some frosting from use with corrosive primer, or 'tracer' ammunition. The receiver and its modifications retain 95% British arsenal blued finish - of the same quality and color as seen on British SMLE rifles of the period - with some handling marks. Mechanical functions are excellent. the rifle retains its original Winchester extended magazine. The walnut stocks are very fine retaining well over 90% original finish with some handling marks and a minor repaired crack on the forearm (typical of early Win. Mod. 1907 rifles). This rifle has all proper British proofmarks on barrel and frame. The rifle does not have any import marks.
This historically important and rare high condition Model 1907 Winchester would be a most interesting and eye catching addition to any private or public collection of Winchester arms, early aviation pieces, and/or World War I military items.
SOLD
Curio/Relic: Yes
Manufacturer: Winchester
Model: 1907
Caliber Info: .351
Condition: excellent
Metal Condition: excellent original
Wood Condition: excellent original
Bore Condition: fine
Action: semi-automatic
Finish: blue
Sights: open
Manufacture Date: 1915
Proof:Nitro: British proofed
Description:
Shown here is one of two known surviving Winchester model 1907 semi-automatic rifles of an order of 120. Such rifles were ordered by the British Royal Flying Corps from Winchester in World War I.
Early in WW I the airplane was discovered to be very useful for observing enemy troop movements, artillery positions, etc. This was the first large scale military use of aircraft and the opposing powers lost no time in sending their pilots and observers over enemy lines to gather intelligence. At first observation airplanes operated in safety since effective anti-aircraft weapons had not yet been developed. However pilots and observers soon began taking firearms aloft to use against enemy aviators. Due to limitations in engine power and fragile airframe designs, observation planes of 1914-1915 couldn't carry pilot, observer, observation equipment, plus the additional weight of machineguns and ammunition. For a time hand held small arms had to do and a few recently developed dependable semi-automatic rifles could fill the bill.
Some military officers thought the Winchester model 1907 could be a good choice for aviators. It was compact, handy, and used detatchable magazines (holding 10-15 rounds) a number of which could be carried in an observer's cramped cockpit.
The British Royal Flying Corps ordered 120 Winchester model 1907 semi-automatic rifles from Winchester Repeating Arms Co. in 1915. These weapons were intended to be issued to aircrews of British observation aircraft for use against enemy aircraft. The .351 Winchester was only a mid-range cartridge but its bullet was substiantial and the Royal Flying Corps had incendiary ammunition developed which would be effective against wood framed and highly flammable canvas covered enemy planes.
Aircrews quickly discovered it was very cold at their flying altitudes and were forced to adopt heavy flying suits and gloves. This made it neccessary to modify Royal Flying Corps Winchester 1907 rifles for use by airmen. Winchester 1907 trigger guards, operating lever handles, and magazine releases were redesigned to allow use with the heavy flying suits. The rifles were fitted with these improvements, including having their triggers checkered, at a military arsenal. The RFC also had the rifle's frames modified for attachment of canvas bags to catch ejected empty cartridge cases ( caught in a slipstream ejected cartridge cases could damage a plane's wooden airframe, canvas covering, and external control wires).
During 1915 considerable advances were made in aircraft engine and airframe design such that machineguns with adequate ammunition supply could not only be mounted on airplanes but also be synchronized to fire through propeller arcs. This ended the brief aerial employment of hand held semi-automatic firearms in above the trenches.
At the present time only two British Royal Flying Corps Winchester model 1907 rifles are known to have survived, this rifle #28567, and another #30928 which was sold by Rock Island Company, Sept. 11, 2015, lot #1663. Price realized: $9,200.00.
The Royal Flying Corps Winchester model 1907 air service rifle is described and pictured in the following publications: 'British Secondary Small Arms 1914-1919", A.O.Edwards, Solo Publications, Kent, England, PP 26-31, 'Winchester Repeating Arms Company ; Its History Development From 1865 to 1981", herbert G. Houze, Krause pub. Inc. 1994, PP 180-181, "A Winchester for World War I Air Combat', Alan Gaines, The Winchester Collector, Winter 2018, PP 40-43.
CONDITION: This rifle is in excellent as issued condiion. the barrel, forend cap, and magazine retain 95% original fctory blue finish with some light handling marks. The bore is very fine with some frosting from use with corrosive primer, or 'tracer' ammunition. The receiver and its modifications retain 95% British arsenal blued finish - of the same quality and color as seen on British SMLE rifles of the period - with some handling marks. Mechanical functions are excellent. the rifle retains its original Winchester extended magazine. The walnut stocks are very fine retaining well over 90% original finish with some handling marks and a minor repaired crack on the forearm (typical of early Win. Mod. 1907 rifles). This rifle has all proper British proofmarks on barrel and frame. The rifle does not have any import marks.
This historically important and rare high condition Model 1907 Winchester would be a most interesting and eye catching addition to any private or public collection of Winchester arms, early aviation pieces, and/or World War I military items.
SOLD
Curio/Relic: Yes
Manufacturer: Winchester
Model: 1907
Caliber Info: .351
Condition: excellent
Metal Condition: excellent original
Wood Condition: excellent original
Bore Condition: fine
Action: semi-automatic
Finish: blue
Sights: open
Manufacture Date: 1915
Proof:Nitro: British proofed
|
Click Photo to Enlarge
|
Guns International #: 101209118
Category - Winchester Rifles
- Winchester Rifles - Semi-Auto Pre-War
Seller's Information
When emailing or calling sellers direct,
please mention that you saw their listing on GunsInternational.com
Seller: A & A Gaines Antiques
Member Since: 11/2/08
State:
Rhode Island
Zip: 02840
Country: United States
Phone:
(401) 846-0538
Active Listings: 0
Total Listings: 66
Seller Type: Private Seller
Return Policy: 3 day inspection and return policy on used guns and accessories.
3 days Payment Methods: USPS Postal Money Order or Bank Check
Winchester model 1907 Rifle For The British Royal Flying Corps - World War I
Description: Shown here is one of two known surviving Winchester model 1907 semi-automatic rifles of an order of 120. Such rifles were ordered by the British Royal Flying Corps from Winchester in World War I. Early in WW I the airplane was discovered to be very useful for observing enemy troop movements, artillery positions, etc. This was the first large scale military use of aircraft and the opposing powers lost no time in sending their pilots and observers over enemy lines to gather intelligence. At first observation airplanes operated in safety since effective anti-aircraft weapons had not yet been developed. However pilots and observers soon began taking firearms aloft to use against enemy aviators. Due to limitations in engine power and fragile airframe designs, observation planes of 1914-1915 couldn't carry pilot, observer, observation equipment, plus the additional weight of machineguns and ammunition. For a time hand held small arms had to do and a few recently developed dependable semi-automatic rifles could fill the bill. Some military officers thought the Winchester model 1907 could be a good choice for aviators. It was compact, handy, and used detatchable magazines (holding 10-15 rounds) a number of which could be carried in an observer's cramped cockpit. The British Royal Flying Corps ordered 120 Winchester model 1907 semi-automatic rifles from Winchester Repeating Arms Co. in 1915. These weapons were intended to be issued to aircrews of British observation aircraft for use against enemy aircraft. The .351 Winchester was only a mid-range cartridge but its bullet was substiantial and the Royal Flying Corps had incendiary ammunition developed which would be effective against wood framed and highly flammable canvas covered enemy planes. Aircrews quickly discovered it was very cold at their flying altitudes and were forced to adopt heavy flying suits and gloves. This made it neccessary to modify Royal Flying Corps Winchester 1907 rifles for use by airmen. Winchester 1907 trigger guards, operating lever handles, and magazine releases were redesigned to allow use with the heavy flying suits. The rifles were fitted with these improvements, including having their triggers checkered, at a military arsenal. The RFC also had the rifle's frames modified for attachment of canvas bags to catch ejected empty cartridge cases ( caught in a slipstream ejected cartridge cases could damage a plane's wooden airframe, canvas covering, and external control wires). During 1915 considerable advances were made in aircraft engine and airframe design such that machineguns with adequate ammunition supply could not only be mounted on airplanes but also be synchronized to fire through propeller arcs. This ended the brief aerial employment of hand held semi-automatic firearms in above the trenches. At the present time only two British Royal Flying Corps Winchester model 1907 rifles are known to have survived, this rifle #28567, and another #30928 which was sold by Rock Island Company, Sept. 11, 2015, lot #1663. Price realized: $9,200.00. The Royal Flying Corps Winchester model 1907 air service rifle is described and pictured in the following publications: 'British Secondary Small Arms 1914-1919", A.O.Edwards, Solo Publications, Kent, England, PP 26-31, 'Winchester Repeating Arms Company ; Its History Development From 1865 to 1981", herbert G. Houze, Krause pub. Inc. 1994, PP 180-181, "A Winchester for World War I Air Combat', Alan Gaines, The Winchester Collector, Winter 2018, PP 40-43. CONDITION: This rifle is in excellent as issued condiion. the barrel, forend cap, and magazine retain 95% original fctory blue finish with some light handling marks. The bore is very fine with some frosting from use with corrosive primer, or 'tracer' ammunition. The receiver and its modifications retain 95% British arsenal blued finish - of the same quality and color as seen on British SMLE rifles of the period - with some handling marks. Mechanical functions are excellent. the rifle retains its original Winchester extended magazine. The walnut stocks are very fine retaining well over 90% original finish with some handling marks and a minor repaired crack on the forearm (typical of early Win. Mod. 1907 rifles). This rifle has all proper British proofmarks on barrel and frame. The rifle does not have any import marks. This historically important and rare high condition Model 1907 Winchester would be a most interesting and eye catching addition to any private or public collection of Winchester arms, early aviation pieces, and/or World War I military items. SOLD Curio/Relic: Yes Manufacturer: Winchester Model: 1907 Caliber Info: .351 Condition: excellent Metal Condition: excellent original Wood Condition: excellent original Bore Condition: fine Action: semi-automatic Finish: blue Sights: open Manufacture Date: 1915 Proof:Nitro: British proofed |
Click Photo to Enlarge
Guns International #: 101209118
Category - Winchester Rifles
- Winchester Rifles - Semi-Auto Pre-War
Seller's Information
When emailing or calling sellers direct,
please mention that you saw their listing on GunsInternational.com
Seller: A & A Gaines Antiques
Member Since: 11/2/08
State:
Rhode Island
Zip: 02840
Country: United States
Phone:
(401) 846-0538
Active Listings: 0
Total Listings: 66
Seller Type: Private Seller
Return Policy: 3 day inspection and return policy on used guns and accessories.
3 days
3 days
Payment Methods: USPS Postal Money Order or Bank Check
Winchester model 1907 Rifle For The British Royal Flying Corps - World War I
Description:
Shown here is one of two known surviving Winchester model 1907 semi-automatic rifles of an order of 120. Such rifles were ordered by the British Royal Flying Corps from Winchester in World War I.
Early in WW I the airplane was discovered to be very useful for observing enemy troop movements, artillery positions, etc. This was the first large scale military use of aircraft and the opposing powers lost no time in sending their pilots and observers over enemy lines to gather intelligence. At first observation airplanes operated in safety since effective anti-aircraft weapons had not yet been developed. However pilots and observers soon began taking firearms aloft to use against enemy aviators. Due to limitations in engine power and fragile airframe designs, observation planes of 1914-1915 couldn't carry pilot, observer, observation equipment, plus the additional weight of machineguns and ammunition. For a time hand held small arms had to do and a few recently developed dependable semi-automatic rifles could fill the bill.
Some military officers thought the Winchester model 1907 could be a good choice for aviators. It was compact, handy, and used detatchable magazines (holding 10-15 rounds) a number of which could be carried in an observer's cramped cockpit.
The British Royal Flying Corps ordered 120 Winchester model 1907 semi-automatic rifles from Winchester Repeating Arms Co. in 1915. These weapons were intended to be issued to aircrews of British observation aircraft for use against enemy aircraft. The .351 Winchester was only a mid-range cartridge but its bullet was substiantial and the Royal Flying Corps had incendiary ammunition developed which would be effective against wood framed and highly flammable canvas covered enemy planes.
Aircrews quickly discovered it was very cold at their flying altitudes and were forced to adopt heavy flying suits and gloves. This made it neccessary to modify Royal Flying Corps Winchester 1907 rifles for use by airmen. Winchester 1907 trigger guards, operating lever handles, and magazine releases were redesigned to allow use with the heavy flying suits. The rifles were fitted with these improvements, including having their triggers checkered, at a military arsenal. The RFC also had the rifle's frames modified for attachment of canvas bags to catch ejected empty cartridge cases ( caught in a slipstream ejected cartridge cases could damage a plane's wooden airframe, canvas covering, and external control wires).
During 1915 considerable advances were made in aircraft engine and airframe design such that machineguns with adequate ammunition supply could not only be mounted on airplanes but also be synchronized to fire through propeller arcs. This ended the brief aerial employment of hand held semi-automatic firearms in above the trenches.
At the present time only two British Royal Flying Corps Winchester model 1907 rifles are known to have survived, this rifle #28567, and another #30928 which was sold by Rock Island Company, Sept. 11, 2015, lot #1663. Price realized: $9,200.00.
The Royal Flying Corps Winchester model 1907 air service rifle is described and pictured in the following publications: 'British Secondary Small Arms 1914-1919", A.O.Edwards, Solo Publications, Kent, England, PP 26-31, 'Winchester Repeating Arms Company ; Its History Development From 1865 to 1981", herbert G. Houze, Krause pub. Inc. 1994, PP 180-181, "A Winchester for World War I Air Combat', Alan Gaines, The Winchester Collector, Winter 2018, PP 40-43.
CONDITION: This rifle is in excellent as issued condiion. the barrel, forend cap, and magazine retain 95% original fctory blue finish with some light handling marks. The bore is very fine with some frosting from use with corrosive primer, or 'tracer' ammunition. The receiver and its modifications retain 95% British arsenal blued finish - of the same quality and color as seen on British SMLE rifles of the period - with some handling marks. Mechanical functions are excellent. the rifle retains its original Winchester extended magazine. The walnut stocks are very fine retaining well over 90% original finish with some handling marks and a minor repaired crack on the forearm (typical of early Win. Mod. 1907 rifles). This rifle has all proper British proofmarks on barrel and frame. The rifle does not have any import marks.
This historically important and rare high condition Model 1907 Winchester would be a most interesting and eye catching addition to any private or public collection of Winchester arms, early aviation pieces, and/or World War I military items.
SOLD
Curio/Relic: Yes
Manufacturer: Winchester
Model: 1907
Caliber Info: .351
Condition: excellent
Metal Condition: excellent original
Wood Condition: excellent original
Bore Condition: fine
Action: semi-automatic
Finish: blue
Sights: open
Manufacture Date: 1915
Proof:Nitro: British proofed
Description:
Shown here is one of two known surviving Winchester model 1907 semi-automatic rifles of an order of 120. Such rifles were ordered by the British Royal Flying Corps from Winchester in World War I.
Early in WW I the airplane was discovered to be very useful for observing enemy troop movements, artillery positions, etc. This was the first large scale military use of aircraft and the opposing powers lost no time in sending their pilots and observers over enemy lines to gather intelligence. At first observation airplanes operated in safety since effective anti-aircraft weapons had not yet been developed. However pilots and observers soon began taking firearms aloft to use against enemy aviators. Due to limitations in engine power and fragile airframe designs, observation planes of 1914-1915 couldn't carry pilot, observer, observation equipment, plus the additional weight of machineguns and ammunition. For a time hand held small arms had to do and a few recently developed dependable semi-automatic rifles could fill the bill.
Some military officers thought the Winchester model 1907 could be a good choice for aviators. It was compact, handy, and used detatchable magazines (holding 10-15 rounds) a number of which could be carried in an observer's cramped cockpit.
The British Royal Flying Corps ordered 120 Winchester model 1907 semi-automatic rifles from Winchester Repeating Arms Co. in 1915. These weapons were intended to be issued to aircrews of British observation aircraft for use against enemy aircraft. The .351 Winchester was only a mid-range cartridge but its bullet was substiantial and the Royal Flying Corps had incendiary ammunition developed which would be effective against wood framed and highly flammable canvas covered enemy planes.
Aircrews quickly discovered it was very cold at their flying altitudes and were forced to adopt heavy flying suits and gloves. This made it neccessary to modify Royal Flying Corps Winchester 1907 rifles for use by airmen. Winchester 1907 trigger guards, operating lever handles, and magazine releases were redesigned to allow use with the heavy flying suits. The rifles were fitted with these improvements, including having their triggers checkered, at a military arsenal. The RFC also had the rifle's frames modified for attachment of canvas bags to catch ejected empty cartridge cases ( caught in a slipstream ejected cartridge cases could damage a plane's wooden airframe, canvas covering, and external control wires).
During 1915 considerable advances were made in aircraft engine and airframe design such that machineguns with adequate ammunition supply could not only be mounted on airplanes but also be synchronized to fire through propeller arcs. This ended the brief aerial employment of hand held semi-automatic firearms in above the trenches.
At the present time only two British Royal Flying Corps Winchester model 1907 rifles are known to have survived, this rifle #28567, and another #30928 which was sold by Rock Island Company, Sept. 11, 2015, lot #1663. Price realized: $9,200.00.
The Royal Flying Corps Winchester model 1907 air service rifle is described and pictured in the following publications: 'British Secondary Small Arms 1914-1919", A.O.Edwards, Solo Publications, Kent, England, PP 26-31, 'Winchester Repeating Arms Company ; Its History Development From 1865 to 1981", herbert G. Houze, Krause pub. Inc. 1994, PP 180-181, "A Winchester for World War I Air Combat', Alan Gaines, The Winchester Collector, Winter 2018, PP 40-43.
CONDITION: This rifle is in excellent as issued condiion. the barrel, forend cap, and magazine retain 95% original fctory blue finish with some light handling marks. The bore is very fine with some frosting from use with corrosive primer, or 'tracer' ammunition. The receiver and its modifications retain 95% British arsenal blued finish - of the same quality and color as seen on British SMLE rifles of the period - with some handling marks. Mechanical functions are excellent. the rifle retains its original Winchester extended magazine. The walnut stocks are very fine retaining well over 90% original finish with some handling marks and a minor repaired crack on the forearm (typical of early Win. Mod. 1907 rifles). This rifle has all proper British proofmarks on barrel and frame. The rifle does not have any import marks.
This historically important and rare high condition Model 1907 Winchester would be a most interesting and eye catching addition to any private or public collection of Winchester arms, early aviation pieces, and/or World War I military items.
SOLD
Curio/Relic: Yes
Manufacturer: Winchester
Model: 1907
Caliber Info: .351
Condition: excellent
Metal Condition: excellent original
Wood Condition: excellent original
Bore Condition: fine
Action: semi-automatic
Finish: blue
Sights: open
Manufacture Date: 1915
Proof:Nitro: British proofed
Guns International #: 101209118
Guns International #: 101209118
Category - Winchester Rifles
- Winchester Rifles - Semi-Auto Pre-War
Seller's Information
When emailing or calling sellers direct,
please mention that you saw their listing on GunsInternational.com
Seller: A & A Gaines Antiques
Member Since: 11/2/08
State:
Rhode Island
Zip: 02840
Country: United States
Phone:
(401) 846-0538
Active Listings: 0
Total Listings: 66
Seller Type: Private Seller
Return Policy: 3 day inspection and return policy on used guns and accessories.
3 days
3 days
Payment Methods: USPS Postal Money Order or Bank Check
Winchester model 1907 Rifle For The British Royal Flying Corps - World War I
Description:
Shown here is one of two known surviving Winchester model 1907 semi-automatic rifles of an order of 120. Such rifles were ordered by the British Royal Flying Corps from Winchester in World War I.
Early in WW I the airplane was discovered to be very useful for observing enemy troop movements, artillery positions, etc. This was the first large scale military use of aircraft and the opposing powers lost no time in sending their pilots and observers over enemy lines to gather intelligence. At first observation airplanes operated in safety since effective anti-aircraft weapons had not yet been developed. However pilots and observers soon began taking firearms aloft to use against enemy aviators. Due to limitations in engine power and fragile airframe designs, observation planes of 1914-1915 couldn't carry pilot, observer, observation equipment, plus the additional weight of machineguns and ammunition. For a time hand held small arms had to do and a few recently developed dependable semi-automatic rifles could fill the bill.
Some military officers thought the Winchester model 1907 could be a good choice for aviators. It was compact, handy, and used detatchable magazines (holding 10-15 rounds) a number of which could be carried in an observer's cramped cockpit.
The British Royal Flying Corps ordered 120 Winchester model 1907 semi-automatic rifles from Winchester Repeating Arms Co. in 1915. These weapons were intended to be issued to aircrews of British observation aircraft for use against enemy aircraft. The .351 Winchester was only a mid-range cartridge but its bullet was substiantial and the Royal Flying Corps had incendiary ammunition developed which would be effective against wood framed and highly flammable canvas covered enemy planes.
Aircrews quickly discovered it was very cold at their flying altitudes and were forced to adopt heavy flying suits and gloves. This made it neccessary to modify Royal Flying Corps Winchester 1907 rifles for use by airmen. Winchester 1907 trigger guards, operating lever handles, and magazine releases were redesigned to allow use with the heavy flying suits. The rifles were fitted with these improvements, including having their triggers checkered, at a military arsenal. The RFC also had the rifle's frames modified for attachment of canvas bags to catch ejected empty cartridge cases ( caught in a slipstream ejected cartridge cases could damage a plane's wooden airframe, canvas covering, and external control wires).
During 1915 considerable advances were made in aircraft engine and airframe design such that machineguns with adequate ammunition supply could not only be mounted on airplanes but also be synchronized to fire through propeller arcs. This ended the brief aerial employment of hand held semi-automatic firearms in above the trenches.
At the present time only two British Royal Flying Corps Winchester model 1907 rifles are known to have survived, this rifle #28567, and another #30928 which was sold by Rock Island Company, Sept. 11, 2015, lot #1663. Price realized: $9,200.00.
The Royal Flying Corps Winchester model 1907 air service rifle is described and pictured in the following publications: 'British Secondary Small Arms 1914-1919", A.O.Edwards, Solo Publications, Kent, England, PP 26-31, 'Winchester Repeating Arms Company ; Its History Development From 1865 to 1981", herbert G. Houze, Krause pub. Inc. 1994, PP 180-181, "A Winchester for World War I Air Combat', Alan Gaines, The Winchester Collector, Winter 2018, PP 40-43.
CONDITION: This rifle is in excellent as issued condiion. the barrel, forend cap, and magazine retain 95% original fctory blue finish with some light handling marks. The bore is very fine with some frosting from use with corrosive primer, or 'tracer' ammunition. The receiver and its modifications retain 95% British arsenal blued finish - of the same quality and color as seen on British SMLE rifles of the period - with some handling marks. Mechanical functions are excellent. the rifle retains its original Winchester extended magazine. The walnut stocks are very fine retaining well over 90% original finish with some handling marks and a minor repaired crack on the forearm (typical of early Win. Mod. 1907 rifles). This rifle has all proper British proofmarks on barrel and frame. The rifle does not have any import marks.
This historically important and rare high condition Model 1907 Winchester would be a most interesting and eye catching addition to any private or public collection of Winchester arms, early aviation pieces, and/or World War I military items.
SOLD
Curio/Relic: Yes
Manufacturer: Winchester
Model: 1907
Caliber Info: .351
Condition: excellent
Metal Condition: excellent original
Wood Condition: excellent original
Bore Condition: fine
Action: semi-automatic
Finish: blue
Sights: open
Manufacture Date: 1915
Proof:Nitro: British proofed
Description:
Shown here is one of two known surviving Winchester model 1907 semi-automatic rifles of an order of 120. Such rifles were ordered by the British Royal Flying Corps from Winchester in World War I.
Early in WW I the airplane was discovered to be very useful for observing enemy troop movements, artillery positions, etc. This was the first large scale military use of aircraft and the opposing powers lost no time in sending their pilots and observers over enemy lines to gather intelligence. At first observation airplanes operated in safety since effective anti-aircraft weapons had not yet been developed. However pilots and observers soon began taking firearms aloft to use against enemy aviators. Due to limitations in engine power and fragile airframe designs, observation planes of 1914-1915 couldn't carry pilot, observer, observation equipment, plus the additional weight of machineguns and ammunition. For a time hand held small arms had to do and a few recently developed dependable semi-automatic rifles could fill the bill.
Some military officers thought the Winchester model 1907 could be a good choice for aviators. It was compact, handy, and used detatchable magazines (holding 10-15 rounds) a number of which could be carried in an observer's cramped cockpit.
The British Royal Flying Corps ordered 120 Winchester model 1907 semi-automatic rifles from Winchester Repeating Arms Co. in 1915. These weapons were intended to be issued to aircrews of British observation aircraft for use against enemy aircraft. The .351 Winchester was only a mid-range cartridge but its bullet was substiantial and the Royal Flying Corps had incendiary ammunition developed which would be effective against wood framed and highly flammable canvas covered enemy planes.
Aircrews quickly discovered it was very cold at their flying altitudes and were forced to adopt heavy flying suits and gloves. This made it neccessary to modify Royal Flying Corps Winchester 1907 rifles for use by airmen. Winchester 1907 trigger guards, operating lever handles, and magazine releases were redesigned to allow use with the heavy flying suits. The rifles were fitted with these improvements, including having their triggers checkered, at a military arsenal. The RFC also had the rifle's frames modified for attachment of canvas bags to catch ejected empty cartridge cases ( caught in a slipstream ejected cartridge cases could damage a plane's wooden airframe, canvas covering, and external control wires).
During 1915 considerable advances were made in aircraft engine and airframe design such that machineguns with adequate ammunition supply could not only be mounted on airplanes but also be synchronized to fire through propeller arcs. This ended the brief aerial employment of hand held semi-automatic firearms in above the trenches.
At the present time only two British Royal Flying Corps Winchester model 1907 rifles are known to have survived, this rifle #28567, and another #30928 which was sold by Rock Island Company, Sept. 11, 2015, lot #1663. Price realized: $9,200.00.
The Royal Flying Corps Winchester model 1907 air service rifle is described and pictured in the following publications: 'British Secondary Small Arms 1914-1919", A.O.Edwards, Solo Publications, Kent, England, PP 26-31, 'Winchester Repeating Arms Company ; Its History Development From 1865 to 1981", herbert G. Houze, Krause pub. Inc. 1994, PP 180-181, "A Winchester for World War I Air Combat', Alan Gaines, The Winchester Collector, Winter 2018, PP 40-43.
CONDITION: This rifle is in excellent as issued condiion. the barrel, forend cap, and magazine retain 95% original fctory blue finish with some light handling marks. The bore is very fine with some frosting from use with corrosive primer, or 'tracer' ammunition. The receiver and its modifications retain 95% British arsenal blued finish - of the same quality and color as seen on British SMLE rifles of the period - with some handling marks. Mechanical functions are excellent. the rifle retains its original Winchester extended magazine. The walnut stocks are very fine retaining well over 90% original finish with some handling marks and a minor repaired crack on the forearm (typical of early Win. Mod. 1907 rifles). This rifle has all proper British proofmarks on barrel and frame. The rifle does not have any import marks.
This historically important and rare high condition Model 1907 Winchester would be a most interesting and eye catching addition to any private or public collection of Winchester arms, early aviation pieces, and/or World War I military items.
SOLD
Curio/Relic: Yes
Manufacturer: Winchester
Model: 1907
Caliber Info: .351
Condition: excellent
Metal Condition: excellent original
Wood Condition: excellent original
Bore Condition: fine
Action: semi-automatic
Finish: blue
Sights: open
Manufacture Date: 1915
Proof:Nitro: British proofed
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