J.C. Higgins Model 31 .22 S/L/LR Semi-Auto Rifle, 24 Inch Barrel, Walnut Stock, 1950s Sears/High Standard
This J.C. Higgins Model 31 is a 1950s Sears house-brand semi-automatic .22 made by High Standard, marked with patent no. 2,552,429 and catalog number 583.75. It stands out for its versatile .22 Short, Long, or Long Rifle chambering, integrated retractable roll-away sling, and factory scope-mounting provision. A 24 inch steel barrel, walnut stock with beavertail fore-end, and adjustable iron sights round out a classic American smallbore design.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: This firearm is in solid shape. It has various cosmetic imperfections, scratches, blemishes, and areas of finish loss. The bore remains clean and shiny.
What’s Included
- J.C. Higgins Model 31 semi-automatic .22 rifle
Manufactured by High Standard for Sears in the 1950s, this Model 31 carries period-correct rollmarks noting the model, patent, and Sears catalog number 583.75. The right-side ejection and right-hand bolt handle reflect its straightforward, shooter-friendly layout.
The rifle is chambered for .22 Short, Long, or Long Rifle and uses a tubular under-barrel magazine, offering a 15+1 capacity. Its semi-automatic blowback action and cross-bolt safety with a red indicator band provide simple operation with clear safety status at a glance.
Barrel length is 24 inches, made of steel and finished in bluing. Sighting is handled by a ramped front sight and an adjustable open rear leaf with elevator. A factory scope-mounting provision is located at the barrel/receiver juncture for easy mounting of appropriate optics.
The walnut stock features a pistol-grip profile, a long beavertail fore-end, and a 14.0 inch length of pull. An integral retractable roll-away sling is built into the stock, an oval J.C. Higgins medallion is inlaid into the bottom of the buttstock near the toe, and the buttplate is a plain black plate—tying together the rifle’s period styling with practical field features.