Manufactured in 1960. This highly unique Model 61 is nearly identical to the example described and pictured on pages 91-93 of "Winchester Slide Action Rifles: Volume II" by Ned Schwing. "Winchester was always trying new ideas and approaches to expand it product line," wrote Schwing. "The company's Model 61 chambered for the .22 Magnum was a great success, so why not a Magnum Shot?" The muzzle is threaded and fitted with a .22 caliber choke tube marked "22 W.M.R./MOD." and it measures 1 5/8 inches. The intended purpose of the screw-on choke was to produce a modified shot pattern. "Whether or not other choke tubes in full or cylinder were tested is not known," continued Schwing. With the choke tube attached the barrel measures 24 inches. The bead sight is located behind the choke tube. "22 WMR SHOT" is hand stamped on the barrel as was done in the Research and Development Department. Experimental guns were commonly hand stamped with the caliber designation of the feature that was being tested. The rifle has an early style checkered hammer catch. Experimental/R&D rifles were commonly built using available parts, thus explaining the old style catch. Other features and markings on this experimental Model 61 include Winchester "WP" proofs on the barrel and receiver at the breech, groove top receiver, serrated trigger, 17 groove slide handle and smooth pistol grip stock with checkered composite Winchester buttplate. This rifle is proof that Winchester was considering offering its line of Model 61s a version in .22 WMR Shot Only.

Excellent with 95% plus original blue finish, some light slide retraction marks on the barrel and magazine tube, and some small scattered surface scratches. The wood is also excellent with some scattered small dings. Mechanically excellent.