High Standard M-101 Dura-Matic Target .22 LR Pistol, 6.5" Barrel – 1968 Hamden Production
Made in Hamden, Connecticut in 1968, this High Standard M-101 Dura-Matic Target model offers a classic American .22 LR rimfire experience with a quick-change 6.5" barrel retained by a single captive thumb screw. Known for its simple blowback, striker-fired action and reliable ten-round magazine, the Dura-Matic line exceeded one million units produced and later influenced designs such as the Colt Cadet and Beretta U22 Neos. This full-size pistol combines a blued carbon-steel slide and barrel with a lightweight aluminum frame, giving target shooters a balanced feel without excess weight.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good – Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks; rifling remains well-defined.
Specific Condition Notes: The blued surfaces display scattered light scratches and small handling marks consistent with regular range use. The bore is bright with strong lands and grooves.
What’s Included
- High Standard factory cardboard pistol box
- Factory illustrated parts price list sheet for M-101 Dura-Matic
- Two 10-round blued steel High Standard M-101 .22 LR magazines
The Target submodel’s 6.5" barrel stretches the sight radius for steadier alignment on its drift-adjustable rear notch and integral ramp front blade. A heel-style magazine release keeps the slim grip profile intact while preventing accidental drops during bench or field use.
The pistol’s aluminum frame and brown phenolic wraparound grips retain the classic Dura-Matic feel yet shave weight for easy carry to and from the range. Rear slide serrations provide solid purchase when charging the striker-fired action.
High Standard’s quick-change barrel design lets shooters remove the barrel with a single thumb screw, simplifying cleaning or caliber experiments within the .22 LR family. Combined with the proven simple blowback system, the pistol delivers straightforward maintenance and reliable cycling with standard-velocity ammunition.
Produced during the late 1960s peak of High Standard quality, this example represents the era that also saw the design sold through Sears under the J.C. Higgins Model 80 label—highlighting its widespread popularity and parts availability.