Winchester Model 43 Standard .22 Hornet Bolt-Action Rifle | 1950 Production, A-Series Serial, Side-Mount Scope Base
Made in 1950, this Winchester Model 43 Standard rifle delivers classic post-war Winchester engineering in the efficient .22 Hornet chambering. The A-series serial number places it in the mid-production run of approximately 63,000 rifles—the first new sporting model Winchester introduced after World War II. A detachable 4-round magazine, 24-inch Winchester Proof Steel barrel, and factory iron sights give this full-size small-game rifle practical versatility, while its plain oil-finished walnut stock reflects the clean styling of the Standard variant.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good – Shows signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good – Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good – Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: The walnut stock displays multiple scratches and dents, and rust is forming on the bottom side of the installed scope mount.
What’s Included
- Winchester Model 43 Standard rifle (.22 Hornet)
- 1 × Winchester factory 4-round detachable magazine
- Two-screw side-mount scope base (installed)
Winchester introduced the Model 43 as an economical yet fully machined bolt-action, using Winchester Proof Steel for both barrel and receiver. The material choice provides strength while keeping weight manageable for field carry.
This Standard variant retains its original plain walnut stock with straight comb and semi-pistol grip. Absence of checkering was a design hallmark of the Standard grade, differentiating it from later Deluxe patterns.
The 24-inch barrel features factory ramped post front sight and folding leaf rear sight with stepped elevator, giving shooters flexible sighting options when a scope is not mounted. The receiver is factory drilled and tapped; the period-correct side base currently installed was a common upgrade for scoped use in the 1950s.
A detachable 4-round box magazine allows the use of pointed spitzer bullets, which the traditional .22 Hornet cartridge benefits from for improved ballistic performance. The flag safety and smooth bolt throw round out handling features familiar to Winchester enthusiasts.