*SOLD* Winchester Model 71 .348 WCF Blue 24" *RELIABLE LEVER-ACTION RIFLE*

Bryant Ridge's Analysis:

Winchester wanted to make the ultimate lever-action, big game hunting rifle, and in the minds of many, they did just that with the Model 71. The 71 was based on the Model 1886's action, but along with a host of new features and small changes, was considered an "improved" version. One of the so-called improvements was a new stock design, already being incorporated on Winchester's Model 65. The Model 71 was also made out of "Winchester Proof Steel", a stronger steel than the Winchester Nickel Steel previously used on post-blackpowder era Winchester lever actions. The action was also modified to feed the newly designed .348 Winchester Center Fire and handle its higher pressures. Being introduced in late 1935, only a few were produced, with production starting in earnest in 1936. In the interest of strength and recoil control, the first 12,000 or so Model 71s produced had long top tangs on the action. However, the designers claimed the longer top tang was unnecessary, and by September of 1937, the top tang was shortened. As a result, the comb of the stock shape was lengthened, and this was the way the 71 was produced for the rest of its production, until it was discontinued in 1958. The Model 71 was also available in both a standard and a Deluxe model, with the standard models featuring smooth pistol grips and forearms where whereas the deluxe model featured a checkered pistol grip and forearm.

Specifications:

Manufacturer: Winchester
Model: 71
Serial: 41622
Date of Manufacture: 1955 (https://www.winchesterguns.com/content/dam/winchester-repeating-arms/support/faq/serial-number-reference/winchester-firearm-manufacture-dates.pdf) 1953 (https://winchestercollector.org/dates/)
Caliber: .348 Winchester
Finish: Blue
Barrel Length: 24" 
Optics/Sights: Patridge Blade Front with Adjustable Rear
Stock/Grips: Smooth Wood Pistol Grip Stock & Forearm
Action: Lever-Action
Markings: Standard