Winchester Model 74 .22 LR Semi-Automatic Rifle, 22-inch Barrel, Blued Steel, Walnut Stock (Late 1954 Production)
This Winchester Model 74 is a late-production .22 LR semi-automatic from circa 1954, identifiable by its serial suffix A. It features the Model 74's classic blowback action, a 22-inch barrel, and a buttstock-housed tubular magazine with 14+1 capacity. Period-correct details like the left-side charging handle, top-mounted sliding safety, and blued steel over walnut stock make it a solid example of this American-made rimfire classic produced from 1939 to 1955.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair condition, showing extensive signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Overall Condition: Fair - Generally clean, some residue or smudges, slight corrosion.
Bore Rifling: Fair Rifling - Worn rifling, slight loss of definition.
Specific Condition Notes: The firearm is in solid functional shape. There are scratches and blemishes on the metal and wood. The bore presents a clean, bright appearance on visual inspection. Rust and pitting are present on portions of the metal surfaces and finish.
What's Included
- Winchester Model 74 .22 LR semi-automatic rifle
The Model 74 is a simple blowback, semi-automatic rimfire with right-side ejection and a 22-inch barrel, offering the straightforward reliability that made it a long-running Winchester favorite. This example aligns with late-production features and period configuration.
Its tubular magazine is housed in the buttstock and loads from a right-side port, providing 14+1 capacity. The checkered steel buttplate incorporates the latch for the magazine tube, a hallmark design element of the Model 74 system.
Controls include a left-rear charging handle and a distinctive top-mounted horizontally sliding safety. Sighting is handled by a dovetailed front blade and an open rear sight with a stepped elevator for practical elevation adjustment.
The rifle wears factory blued steel over a walnut stock with a straight comb and a slight semi-pistol grip. Length of pull measures 13.5 inches, delivering a traditional full-size feel.
Winchester produced the Model 74 from 1939 to 1955 with approximately 406,574 made. This rifle’s serial suffix A corresponds to late production circa 1954. Historical notes indicate a small number of Model 74s reportedly saw British Auxiliary Unit use via Lend-Lease during World War II.