That is definitely the most unique looking magazine configuration that I have come across.  At first glance I thought that maybe the rifle had an original octagon barrel which was later turned down since the retaining ring is not positioned correctly from the muzzle.  But, the barrel address stamp is located correctly for a factory half octagon configuration so it then implies that the magazine and retaining ring placement are factory original and that Winchester chose to position the retaining ring at the standard position back from the end of the magazine so that there would not be a “little stub” sicking out beyond the ring.  THAT would look weird(er).  I downloaded the pertinent photos to post here so that it will be preserved once the GB listing disappears.  It’s kind of a funky looking rifle but chances are you will never see another one like it!!

Michael

Certainly odd.  The photos of the barrel arent that great but appears it could be unaltered, cant really see the step transition that well though.   The 24″ magazine tube is quite odd along with the placement magazine retaining band–appearing to be located to where it would normally be in relation to the end of the magazine tube.  Even with it being shorter, would have anticipated it having a rounded magazine cap that engaged the barrel (like you see on shorter than standard magazines on carbines and rifles.  However by having the retaining band it wouldnt necessarily be needed because the mag band with pin will hold the magazine it in place.

One thing that stands out is what appears to be a wider than normal gap between the magazine tube and the barrel, even in light of it being a 1/2 octagon barrel.  Also, note that the magazine tube end cap does not have the retaining screw that passes through the end cap and into the barrel inlet–by this SN range I would think it would be standard as is found on several of the examples I have owned.  Not sure of the exact transition date from the shorter screw to the longer and whether it falls within the time period of this rifle.  

Very interesting!  I would be interested in examining the rotary dovetail cut for the magazine retaining band.  The flat faced magazine plug, as previously mentioned, is not standard.  Something to consider.

RDB 

I was the last top bidder before the winner. This seemed like a unique rifle with a decent chance of being authentic. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned in these auctions is to set myself a hard limit and resist the urge to get carried away.

I learned that the hard way.

Steve