Winchester Model 65 Standard Rifle .218 Bee Lever Action, 24 in, 1939 Production
Built in 1939 and chambered for the high-velocity .218 Bee, this Winchester Model 65 Standard Rifle represents a scarce piece of pre-war lever-action history. Fewer than 8,000 Model 65s were ever produced, and only about half left the factory in this caliber. Its 24-inch proof-steel barrel, blued chromoly receiver, and factory-installed Lyman 56 aperture sight combine period-correct features with practical field utility, making this rifle notable for both collectors and shooters.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Excellent – Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Rifling Condition: Excellent – Sharp lands and grooves.
Light handling marks are present, consistent with responsible use over time. The rifle remains in good shape for its year of manufacture.
What’s Included
- Winchester Model 65 Standard Rifle in .218 Bee with 24-inch barrel
- Factory Lyman 56 receiver-mounted micrometer aperture sight
Introduced as Winchester’s first lever-action optimized for modern, high-speed varmint cartridges, the Model 65 blends the proven 1892 Browning action with later ergonomic improvements such as a pistol-grip walnut stock and streamlined receiver profile. This example retains its original blued finish over chromoly steel, protected by Winchester oval “WP” proof marks.
The 24-inch round barrel is cut from proof steel and paired with a 6-groove right-hand twist, delivering reliable accuracy from the 7 + 1-round tubular magazine. A hood-less ramp front sight and the adjustable Lyman 56 rear aperture provide a crisp, precise sight picture characteristic of the era’s top sporting rifles.
Collectors value the Model 65 in .218 Bee for its limited production numbers and its role in Winchester’s transition to small-bore, high-velocity cartridges. Manufactured just before World War II, this 1939 rifle captures that moment with original components intact, including the receiver takedown screw and exposed hammer.
The walnut stock offers a comfortable 13-inch length of pull, while the exposed hammer and smooth lever stroke maintain the classic handling expected from a Winchester lever action. Overall, this rifle delivers both historical significance and shooter-ready condition.