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What are these rifles worth in average condition? Are they accurate? Any known issues?
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The Model 43 is capable of excellent accuracy. I own one that was manufactured in August of 1951 that shoots dime-sized groups @100 yards very consistently (using Remington factory 45-gr HP loads). It does not like the Winchester 45-gr SP loads at all, with most groups in the 2.5+ inch range.
The year 1950 was a pivotal year for the Model 43, as late in that year, Winchester began drilling & tapping the frame rings for scope mounts. For most of 1950, they were not factory drilled & tapped. What is the serial number on your rifle? Is the front face of the rear receiver ring beveled (45-degree), or is it perfectly 90-degrees?
The known issue with the Model 43 is that the early pre-A serial number rifles can and will develop head space problems (stretched frame) with reloaded ammo that is hotter than factory original ammo. Winchester made a design modification change to the bolt and receiver in late December 1949 to help alleviate that issue.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
Thanks Bert for that information, I appreciate your response.
Unfortunately, I don’t have possession of the rifle yet, so I can’t inspect it as thoroughly as I would like. Nevertheless, from the pictures I have, I believe the ring appears to be at a 45 degree angle. I don’t believe it is tapped for a scope. The serial number is 28153A.
The serial number indicates that it was manufactured in 1950, but several months before Winchester began drilling & tapping them. We you get the rifle, please post (or send me) pictures of it.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
I am the new proud owner of a Winchester Model 43 in .22 Hornet. The serial number is 14232 and I am wondering if someone can tell when it was manufactured. Thanks for the help!
/s/GD
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