I discovered a Winchester Op Rod in an old gun case I had stashed away. Slant cut handle. Uncut op rod. Stamped D35382-W.R.A. Inside was a note: “Type 1 (early) Win Op Rod.

I vaguely recall taking this in trade with several other parts many years ago, so have no history. I know Winchester made 3 different variants.

What do you think I have? Are they desirable? What do you think is fair market value? Many Thanks

I have no idea what the current value would be but these early uncut rods are desirable to people trying to "restore' a gun to "as-built' condition. I sold one several years ago for @ $300 (IIRC). Possibly a search online might turn up some for sale which would at least give you an idea what people think they are worth.

Uncut rods are of more interest to collectors than shooters but there are certainly people who want them. I'm sure you can find an interested buyer for yours.

If you go over to the CMP Forum they are a very good group and will probably be able to give you more up to date info.

Might check on eBay or the gun auction sites to see if there are any uncut rods for sale and what they sold for. They bring a premium price because collectors want them to return an M1 to WWII-original condition, not because they are better than a cut rod. For shooting, a cut rod is preferable. Actually, the main reason for the cut was because some uncut rods failed under stress when the M1 was used for firing rifle grenades. Not many today will be firing rifle grenades from an M1. I wouldn't be too surprised to see a $200-250 price tag on an uncut Winchester rod which would be attractive to a WWII Winchester M1 owner who wants an uncut rod. Springfield Armory cut rods may go for half that or less.