Manufactured c. 1932-1933, this interesting rifle appears to be an early experimental prototype of the Winchester Model 63 "Self-Loading" rifle. The only markings visible on this particular rifle are the caliber marking on the upper left of the barrel at the breech and the large-numeral, three-digit serial number on the bottom of the frame and the trigger plate. The Model 63 rifle was introduced by Winchester in 1933 and was intended as an updated version of their popular Model 1903 that would be capable of handling the new and desirable .22 Long Rifle High-velocity cartridge. Early versions of the Model 63 had a locking device on the rear of the receiver that interfaced with the takedown screw, which is present on this example. Early in production the 63 was also fitted with a 20 inch barrel, as on this example and just like the Model 1903, until it was changed to 23 inches around serial number 52000. The most interesting feature about this particular example is that it appears to be fitted with a Model 1903 stock with a straight grip and a crescent buttplate, a type of buttplate which was never standard on the Model 63. George Madis notes in "The Winchester Book" when referring to the Model 63 that, "A few straight grip rifles were made, but they are very rare." It is fitted with a beaded blade front sight and an elevation adjustable notch rear sight, and it is mounted with a smooth forearm and the previously mentioned Model 1903 pattern straight grip stock and crescent buttplate.