Winchester ~ Model 64 ″Deer Rifle″ ~ .30-30 Winchester

While the Model 1894 is undoubtedly Winchester's most famous lever-action rifle, its design paved the way for two later models: the Model 55 and 64. The Model 55 was introduced in 1924 to fit between the sizes of the '94 rifle and carbine and only was in production until 1932, when the Model 64 officially took its place in the Winchester catalog in '33. The Model 64 was produced in .25-35 Winchester, .32 Winchester Special, .30-30 Winchester, and (only for a short time) .219 Zipper; .30-30 was ultimately the most popular chambering, however, and other calibers were dropped over time. The Model 64s were only available as full-length rifles and its first run lasted until 1957; later runs were reintroduced from 1972-1973 and 2011-2015 (Japanese-made by Miroku). The Model 64s were meant to be refined and improved versions of the Model 94, though likely never sold as well due to it only being available in one size and not carrying the reputation that the 1894 held. This Model 64 is chambered in the classic American deer cartridge, the .30-30 Winchester. This particular rifle is considered a 64 "Deer Rifle," as evidenced by its checkered oil-rubbed walnut furniture, and can be dated back to a 1951 production year. The Deer Rifle versions were also unofficially called "Deluxe" models for such superficial modifications. The rifle features a 24" barrel with elevator-adjustable semi-buckhorn rear sight and a hooded silver front bead blade sight with textured ramp. The tubular magazine carries five rounds, plus one in the chamber. The rifle is in very good condition for its age and exhibits no signs of rust or pittting, inside or out. The barrel is clean and in good condition and the rifle's finish is largely intact, with some areas having thinner finish than others, but very little steel is in the white. The action on this gun is very smooth and easy to operate, indicating it is well broken-in. But, the gun operates without flaw and is an excellent example of a mid-century Winchester lever gun. This rifle does not include a box or case.