To make a short story long, I have (or actually my father has) a modified model 1895 Winchester which has been re-chambered in 8,2x53R in the 1950's due to the then hunting laws.
I took the gun to the 'smith's for some additional modifications, but the project was delayed.
Well, the season is in and I need a gun. So I browsed on the 'net and came across a not too badly priced m/1895 in 7,62x53R (which I shall promptly call 53R not 54R as it's so been designated in Russia and here) at a local gun store.
So I goes and sees the gun, and it is as expected and hoped: the mechanism a tad loose, but with the "ears" for the clip loader, and also (!) the original quick detachable sling mount.
Alas, the front stock has been cut and the sights altered, but I was looking for a gun to be used, not to be collected.
So I filed the license application and upon receiving it I re-visited the gun store. The asking price of the gun was 290 Euros, and I asked how low will they go if we start talking business. The haggling stopped at 240 ($340 at today's exchange rate) at which point I pulled out the license and counted the money.
Herewith a couple of pics, lest you get bored: (More text to follow.)
Rifle:
"Load ears":
Sling swivel:
So, off to the range I went immediately the same night (last Thursday) to test shoot the rifle.
I was positively surprised, although not a lot, as I have previous experience of the accuracy of the rifles.
I grouped two 4-shot series @ 38mm (1.5") and 44mm (1 3/4"), respectively, both shot @ 100 meters, i.e. 110yds. Finally, I shot two shots @ 12mm - less than half an inch!
All were shot using bench rest and Sako Range 123grs FMJ ammo.
The following Saturday I went for the bear shooting test. In order to hunt bear, moose, and whitetail deer you need to pass a "test" where you shoot 4 shots in 90 seconds @ 75 meters, and you need to hit within a hit area of 17cm (6 5/8", bear), or 23cm (9", moose) with all four shots. You are allowed to use a bench rest or other support. I grouped the shots within 6cm (2 3/8") and passed with flying colors.
My friend, then test shot the rifle and after the first shot he went "Ugh!"
Having emptied the magazine he told me he could not understand how I passed the shooting test!
Well, today I showed the gun to a colleague of mine who happens to be a Winchester collector. Amongst others, he has a flat-side 1895.
He was mighty impressed by the gun and considered it an excellent purchase, verifying, inter alia, the barrel to be of original length: 28".
You can also see the Russian stamps, albeit vaguely.
He also told me that many a gun was modified by Sako where they literally had truckloads of cut front stocks! Imagine that: no-one at that time valued the stock to anything at all.
Proves the loose mechanism is due to a worn screw which can easily be replaced.
He was very impressed and pleased by the accuracy of the gun; also complimenting me on the good shooting. Few of the younger generation knows to shoot open sights as you know.
Today, I know of four original Russian contract Winchesters for sale the prices of which are between 1200 and 1600 Euros. Phew!
Incidentally, my father still has the tool, as well as the original sling with the adjustment clasp which my colleague told me he has seen probably not more than five of, ever. Good thing we decided to keep the original sling and clasp when renewing the sling!
- Lars
PS. Herewith proof of the correct caliber nomination. Alas, the Hammerheads group badly. As luck has it, the seller also had a box of Lapua Naturalis ammo which groups as nicely as the Range does. I'm all set for the season!
