I recently picked up two pre64 model 94s, and I am curious what you all think these are worth, and any thoughts regarding the positive or negative effect of the “period correct” side mount Redfield scope. The scoped rifle is serial number 19801xx, 1953 30-30. I didn’t take a picture of the serial number on the 32ws, but I remember it dated 1943. Thank you in advance![Image Can Not Be Found]I’m currently having trouble uploading the pictures…
Donald,
The side mount scope kills the collector value, relegating it to a hunting rifle.
No Model 94s were manufactured in the year 1943. Winchester temporarily halted production of the Model 94 in late August 1942 to support WW II, and did not resume production until September 1945.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
Not trying to follow on in footsteps of ‘expert’s expert’ Bert. But my own observations please. Many folks “buy & hold”; ‘collect ‘pre 64’ Winchesters levers principally for combo of classic aura on one hand… meet perfectly functional rifles rifles yet viable hunting arms on the other. Double your pleasure, double your fun, ‘having your aura and eating product too! 🙂
When that aura of originality lost; moving to ‘just another shooter’. Moreover, scoping such classic Win levers genre, in the eyes of many Winchester buffs, ‘not pretty’.
Yet another substantial consideration. “Alternatives”. Prime among, Marlin Model 336 lever (1948 to 1982 (“pre safety”). Not the direct connect -aura of the Model 94, 1894 – 1964, “old West”, direct-connect. Contrast Marlin virtues. Not just ‘scope friendly’ by virtue of top scope mounting surface and complimentary “side eject”. Moreover, such very features by factory intent and execution. “Originality!” Scoping possibly even to increase value as well as handling scopes much more ergonomic/competently by design! Frankly, no scoped ‘classic style’ lever action to my mind “scope-svelte”, Winchester “clunky-are-us, image avoided” Winchester Model 88 lever, wholly complimentary!
Pointedly frank talk here and suggesting nothing more than personal opinion. Sounds like you yet have a potential classic Model 94 carbine of early WWII era. Your “extra holes”, 94, functional “also ran”.
Just my take and…
Best!
John
[email protected] said
Thank you gentleman. Let me get the serial number on that 32 so I can correct myself regarding year of manufacture. Appreciate the insights.
As Bill mentioned, it is not possible to provide a value estimate sight unseen. Clear well illuminated pictures are very helpful.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
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