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Bryant Ridge's analysis: The Winchester Model 12 Skeet WS-1 represents one of the finest purpose-built American shotguns tailored specifically for the sport of skeet shooting. Introduced during the golden age of American shotgun manufacturing, the Model 12—often referred to as “The Perfect Repeater”—was renowned for its smooth action, robust construction, and elegant lines. The Skeet variant, fitted with a WS-1 (Winchester Skeet No. 1) choke, was designed to deliver a wid …

Bryant Ridge's Analysis: The Winchester Model 52 Target rifle is a legendary bolt-action firearm that has earned a revered place in shooting history, often referred to as the "King of the .22s." This particular example, chambered in .22 Long Rifle, features a beautifully blued 28-inch barrel and classic target-style front and rear sights, delivering both precision and a nostalgic feel for traditional marksmanship. Introduced in 1920, the Model 52 was Winchester’s answer to the growing popu …

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 t …

Bryant Ridge's Analysis: The Winchester Model 1894, also known as the Model 94, is a legendary lever-action repeating rifle designed by John Browning and introduced in 1894. Originally chambered for two black powder cartridges, the .32-40 Winchester and .38-55 Winchester, the Model 1894 made history in 1895 by becoming the first rifle to chamber a smokeless powder round, the .30 WCF (Winchester Center Fire), later known as the iconic .30-30 Winchester. Additionally, the Model 1894 was produced i …

Bryant Ridge's Analysis: The Winchester Model 54, produced from 1925 until 1937, holds a significant place in the history of bolt-action sporting rifles as Winchester's first successful entry into the category. A sporterized version of the Mauser design, the Model 54 was an important step forward but lacked some of the refinements that many bolt-action hunters were seeking. When the Winchester Model 70 debuted in 1937, it set a new standard, offering a more robust action, better checkering, impr …