My very first rifle as a boy was a Winchester Model 69A. In my "golden years" I've managed to put together a decent collection of them, along with the related Models 75, 72 and 47. Although I've seen some specimens here and there, I had not until recently found a decent condition original Model 69 - the immediate predecessor to the 69A. These were made in 1935, 1936 and 1937, just a few years compared to the 69A which had a run from late 1937 through 1963. The 69s had a "cock on closing" action, and the bolt knob on the back doubled as a safety when twisted. The trigger on these were two-stage, similar to military rifles. This one is comparatively rare, featuring a higher rear open sight and the ramped and hooded front sight usually found only on peep-sighted variations.

I finally found a nice one. From its particular features, I estimate that it was produced in 1936. I thought I'd share a couple of pictures of it. As I grow older, more and more I'm gravitated to guns older than I am - maybe it makes me feel younger!

More information on these interesting guns can be found here:

http://smith-wessonforum.com/lounge/...1-18-11-a.html

John





Here's some comparison shots of the bolts and the actions of the Model 69 and the Model 69A:

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- Cogito, ergo armatus sum -

Very nice. Thanks I learned something. Great comparison pictures.

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Dave

Congratulations!! There is nothing like the feeling of finding one's grail ___________(fill in the blank).

Unfortunately for most of us and, perhaps you as well, the euphoria passes quickly and we soon need another fix.

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"You're messin' up my Zen"

Congratulations! My first .22 was a M67 in 1956 when I was 15. It was new and it and a box of Win. shorts was $16. I was on top of the world. If mine would have been a repeater like yours I would have thought it was a machine gun. Larry

Congratulations and thanks for enhancing my firearms knowledge! I always look forward to your posts as I learn something each time.

Like tops, my first was also a Win. M67, and for the same money as I recall. Mine came from a estate auction. Accurate piece of hardware, and got me started on the seemingly endless road of 'acquisition'......

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Ret'd LEO
SWCA #2275

Congratulations. Good find.

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I am a sheep dog!
1601 (ret)

Paladin, congratulations on your grail gun. I have my father's 1935 Model 69. It has the cock-on-closing bolt, 26" barrel and rear peep sight. He taught me to shoot with that rifle when I was a small boy. It is still an accurate and enjoyable shooter and brings back many wonderful memories of better times. As long as I am still on this side of the grass it will remain in a place of honor in my collection.

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S&W Armorer
Lost in the 50s

One of Winchester's finest. Congratulations.