Spring 2025 Premier Firearms & Militaria Auction
May 8th, 9th, 10th, & 11th, 2025
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EXCEEDINGLY RARE WINCHESTER 45-70 CALIBER MODEL 71 LEVER ACTION RIFLE
25-1345
Cal. 45-70
S# 3797
Of the 47,254 Model 71s produced from 1935-1957, only a handful were in calibers other than 348 Win. Those calibers included 45-70, 33 WCF, and the experimental 308 WCF. The Summer 2021 Winchester Collector included a survey of Model 71 rifles by Bert Hartman. Of 2,457 only 10 were in calibers other than 348. Of these three were 45-70; 4 were 33 WCF, 3 were 308 WCF. The rare 45-70 chambering makes this rifle one of the most desirable Model 71s in existence. Bbl 24″ tapered round. Left side of bbl has early style markings “WINCHESTER/PROOF STEEL – MODEL 71-WINCHESTER/TRADEMARK – 45-70”. Bottom of bbl, forward of action is marked with “45-70” caliber and “37” indicating 1937 manufacture. Hooded ramp bead front sight with elevator adjustable sporting rear sight. 1/2″ length tubular mag. Long tang action. Blued finish. Semi beavertail forearm and hard rubber capped pistol grip arm with hand checkering and checkered steel buttplate. Military style leather sling “Buchemier A -244” leather sling on super gray swivels.
STATUS: CURIO
