Montgomery Ward Western Field Model 40 .22 LR Bolt-Action Rifle - 24 in Barrel, 15-Round Tubular Magazine, Walnut Stock
This Wards Western Field Model 40 is a bolt-action .22 LR house-brand rifle sold by Montgomery Ward, combining a 24-inch barrel, a tubular magazine with an approximately 15-round capacity, and classic walnut furniture. It features an open-top, right-ejecting steel receiver with a blued finish, period-style iron sights, and a rollmark that reads "WARDS WESTERN FIELD - MODEL 40 - .22 LR ONLY - PATD JUNE 6."
Built with a walnut stock and a fore-end bearing a pressed/serrated pattern, the Model 40 presents a straightforward small-bore configuration focused on reliability and simplicity. Its stamped metal trigger guard, two-screw steel buttplate, and straight-comb stock reflect utilitarian construction and era-correct details.
The 24-inch barrel is paired with a ramped front blade and a barrel-mounted rear leaf/elevator sight, offering a traditional sight picture for rimfire shooting. The receiver top is ungrooved, maintaining a smooth profile across the bridge.
The under-barrel tubular magazine provides approximately 15-round capacity in .22 LR, and the right-side ejection with an open-top receiver facilitates straightforward loading and operation. The blued steel receiver and components deliver a uniform finish consistent with the rifle’s period design.
Stock dimensions include a 13.0-inch length of pull, and the two-screw steel buttplate underscores the rifle’s robust, no-nonsense build. The clear rollmark identifies the model and caliber, along with the noted patent date.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair condition, showing extensive signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Overall Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: There is widespread rust and pitting across metal surfaces. The stock and metal show widespread scratching and blemishing. The bore retains a shiny profile with defined rifling.
What's Included
- Wards Western Field Model 40 .22 LR bolt-action rifle