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I was curious what books i should get to better my knowledge on vintage winchesters most notably models 1873, 1894, 1892, 70, and 71 subject matter to include photos of factory correct configurations. serial number dates and some history on models. any suggestions will be appreciated
March 20, 2009
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Hello Ken,
For the 1873 you want the two volume set written by James Gordon. Warning: It is hard to find and expensive when you do!! ie=UTF8&qid=1363778385&sr=1-7&keywords=winchester+1873
For the 1894 and 94’s pick up Robert Renneberg’s book. ie=UTF8&qid=1363778385&sr=1-5&keywords=winchester+1873
There is Art Pirkles book which gives lots of parts details but is short on production information. That which is there contains errors.
ie=UTF8&qid=1363778670&sr=1-13&keywords=winchester+1873
There is always the "Big Brown Book" of George Madis which, while an impressive undertaking of all Winchester firearms, is commonly in error especially in regard to DOM and production statistics.
ie=UTF8&qid=1363778724&sr=1-1&keywords=george+Madis
You will have to wait a while for the 1892’s since I am still working on collecting data. I will be glad to answer any questions at any time.
If you are going to venture into the slide action .22’s then there are no books better than Schwing" 2 volumes. Another warning. But not as bad as Gordons.
Vol 1:
ie=UTF8&qid=1363779003&sr=1-2&keywords=schwing+winchester
Vol 2:
ie=UTF8&qid=1363779003&sr=1-4&keywords=schwing+winchester
This will get you started.
Michael
Model 1892 / Model 61 Collector, Research, Valuation
February 18, 2011
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Concerning principally the Winchester Model 70 from 1936 through 1963, Roger Rule’s book: "The Rifleman’s Rifle" remains the seminal publication. Excellent color illustrations plus B&W, large amounts of data well integrated with the progressive development and production of the 70 in all its various configurations. It is simply a great no nonsense book. More important it is one of those rare cases where one book nearly does it all. (It even covers core information and data concerning the predecessor Winchester Model 54.)
Periodically out of print, it’s currently available through such as Amazon.com. for about $85 and worth every penny.
An older book, less competent and largely redundant to the ‘Rule Book’. is Dean Whitaker’s: "The Winchester Model 70 1937 – 1964". Good addition for a very serious 70 collector, but long out of print and disproportionately pricy for the content. If available, best to get a copy through Inter-library Loan and just peruse it as desired.
Happy collecting!
