This experimental version of the Winchester Model 61 slide action rifle has a serial number that falls into the early 1960s production run. The rifle is absent of the standard Model 61 markings except for the Winchester oval proof on top of the barrel and receiver at the breech and the serial number on the underside of the frame and ahead of the trigger guard. The barrel is threaded for an included screw on choke device (1 5/8 inches long) which is marked "22 W.M.R./MOD." The barrel measures nearly 24 inches long with the choke tube attached. The front bead sight is positioned on the barrel behind the choke tube. The barrel is hand stamped "22 W M R SHOT" where the rear sight would normally be mounted. The other features appear to be standard such as the 17 groove, flat bottom forearm and smooth pistol grip stock with checkered plastic Winchester buttplate. This rifle is most likely the experimental Model 61 (319xxx) discussed and pictured in Ned Schwing's "Winchester Slide-Action Rifle, Vol. II: Model 61 & Model 62" on pages 91-93. The existence of this rifle suggests that Winchester considered to offer a Model 61 .22 WMR in shot only configuration.

Very fine as factory refurbished for experimentation. The rifle retains 98% blue finish showing some minor slide wear. The wood is also excellent showing the slightest handling marks. Mechanically excellent. A must have for the serious Winchester slide action rifle collector, because without it even the most advance collection is incomplete.