Winchester Model 63 “Speed King” .22 LR Semi-Automatic Rifle | 23-Inch Proof Steel Barrel | 1955 Production
Built in 1955, this Winchester Model 63 Speed King is the final evolution of the company’s famous blowback .22 LR takedown rifle. The “A” suffix serial number identifies it as the strengthened post-1938 variant, while the 23-inch Winchester Proof Steel barrel and walnut stock preserve the classic look collectors seek. A factory-brazed sling swivel eyelet and integral 10-round butt-stock magazine round out a design long praised for reliability and balance.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair – Extensive signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Fair – Generally clean, some residue or smudges, slight corrosion.
Rifling: Fair – Worn rifling, slight loss of definition.
Specific Condition Notes: Metal surfaces show noticeable finish loss with scattered surface rust and light pitting. Duct tape residue is present on portions of the stock and fore-end.
What’s Included
- Winchester Model 63 Speed King rifle
- Integral 10-round tubular magazine with factory follower rod
The Model 63 was Winchester’s answer to shooters who wanted rapid .22 LR fire without sacrificing accuracy. Its simple blowback action cycles standard and high-velocity loads smoothly, helped by an internal hammer that keeps lock-time short.
A takedown mechanism lets the user separate the barrel and receiver from the butt and trigger group in seconds, making transport and cleaning straightforward. Matching receiver and takedown-lug numbers, including the “135928A” suffix, confirm original factory pairing.
Winchester Proof Steel forms the 23-inch round barrel, marked with the oval “WP” proof stamp ahead of the receiver. The barrel retains its drift-adjustable blade front sight and sporting leaf rear sight, offering a sight picture familiar to mid-century rimfire enthusiasts.
The oil-finished walnut stock and fore-end provide a 13-inch length of pull and house the tubular magazine that holds ten cartridges plus one in the chamber. A factory sling swivel eyelet brazed to the barrel gives convenient mounting for carry in the field.