Winchester 69 – 22LR Bolt Action

I came across this bolt-action rifle cruising www.calguns.net. It was originally missing a bolt assembly; conveniently, one was listed on ebay. The rifle was priced well and close enough for me to pick it up – it sold rather quickly. I bought the bolt shortly after letting the gentleman know of my intent to purchase.

The Winchester Model 69 is different from their 69A model. The primary difference it’s the bolt assembly. The Model 69 utilizes an open-bolt system whereas the Model 69A uses the closed-bolt system. In other words, the firearm cocks as the bolt moves forward and visa versa in the Model 69A. The safety on the Model 69 is a twist knob on the bolt assembly and the Model 69A’s safety is on the rifle’s receiver.

Introduced in 1935, the Model 69 uses a detachable magazine box to chamber .22 Short Long and Long Rifle ammunition. The barrel is 25” tapered barrel, open sights (with an option to use a hooded sight in the front – but I think mine is just missing the hood). The stock is a plain walnut, dinged up after the years of use. The barrel was also re-parkarized with the outer barrel showing some pitting. I assume the refinishing took care of any further deterioration. The inner barrel however is very shiny with excellent rifling. It’s been shooting the Remington, Winchester, and Federal bargain brick boxes without a problem and is absolutely a straight shooter.

OEM magazines are difficult to come by – especially one with a 10 round capacity. I’ve seen the ProMag models available, but I haven’t had the money to buy a set (anyone care to donate?).

It’s quite a .22 and it’s blast to shoot – despite the absence of any blast. I see many of them being sold between $350 and $450, depending on accessories and condition. If you happen to run across one – buy it.

I could probably do better.

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