Winchester Model 1905 .32 WSL Semi-Auto Rifle, 22-Inch Barrel, Takedown, Top-Eject, 1911 Production, 5+1
Manufactured in 1911, this Winchester Model 1905 is a notable early American centerfire self-loading sporting rifle in .32 WSL. It uses T.C. Johnson’s balanced simple-blowback system, features a 22-inch round barrel, and feeds from a detachable 5-round box magazine. Classic top-eject operation, takedown construction, and period-correct markings round out this historically significant configuration.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Overall Condition: Fair - Generally clean, some residue or smudges, slight corrosion.
Bore Fouling: Mild Fouling - Light buildup of fouling or dirt.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: The buttstock shows mild figure, and extensive sanding has left it proud at the tang. The forend has minor handling marks. The receiver has been reblued over earlier pitting. The bore shows mild pitting.
What’s Included
- Winchester Model 1905 semi-automatic rifle chambered in .32 WSL
- 1 steel detachable 5-round magazine (correct pattern for the Model 1905 in .32 WSL)
The Model 1905 represents Winchester’s early move into self-loading sporting rifles. This example is chambered in .32 Winchester Self-Loading and employs T.C. Johnson’s balanced simple-blowback action, a hallmark of the design. The top-eject receiver and detachable 5-round magazine deliver the classic handling and operation associated with the model.
It is built with a 22-inch round barrel and standard open sights, including a rear sight with elevator and a front blade. The rifle incorporates a takedown system via a knurled tang screw, allowing the barreled assembly and receiver group to separate for transport and maintenance.
Controls and furniture are true to period configuration. An under-barrel operating rod with a round button serves as the charging handle. The straight-grip walnut stock is paired with a matching walnut fore-end, and the rifle wears a blued finish. Length of pull measures 13.25 inches.
Markings include a tang stamp reading "WINCHESTER TRADE MARK MOD. 1905 S.L." and a barrel rollmark with the manufacturer, patent dates, and ".32 CAL." The serial number is present on the receiver and repeated on the trigger guard, consistent with factory practice. Capacity is 5+1 with the included steel detachable magazine.