WINCHESTER MODEL 71
Posted May 19, 2023
Introduction
The Winchester Model 71 is one of the most iconic rifles to ever be made. Originally designed in 1935 by Winchester for use by hunters and target shooters, the Model 71 is a lever-action rifle chambered in .348 Winchester or .458 Winchester Magnum. It features a tubular magazine that can accommodate up to 4 rounds of ammunition. In addition to its unique and attractive design, the Model 71 is renowned for its accuracy, reliability, and versatility. It’s a favorite among hunters, target shooters, and gun collectors alike, and is often referred to by its nickname, “the Twin of the Woods”.
Design
The Winchester Model 71 is a study in classic beauty and functional design. Its stock is made from American Walnut with a checkered finish. It has a finely-tuned action for smooth cycling of the action and reliable functioning. It also features sling swivel studs on the forend and buttstock, perfect for attaching a bipod or carrying sling.
The 19” barrel is made from blued steel and crowned with a precision target crown. The bores are carefully broached and hand-polished to ensure smoothness and accuracy. The barrel is equipped with open sights, and there is a scope mounting base and pre-drilled holes in the receiver for mounting optics.
The Model 71 is offered with either a deluxe checkered or plain forend and barrel band. The checkered version has a more attractive look, while the plain version is easier to clean and maintain.
Performance
The Winchester Model 71 is a highly accurate rifle. It consistently fires its .348 and .458 Winchester Magnum loads with remarkable accuracy. It’s also reliable and extremely consistent; it cycles and operates without fail, no matter how much you use it or in what conditions.
The tubular magazine is fast-loading and reliable. It’s easy to top off during shooting sessions, and the Mod 71 is able to handle a wide variety of ammo types.
The Model 71 is also incredibly durable and well-built. The frame has been hardened for extra strength, and the metal parts are all clearly marked and numbered. This makes diagnosing a malfunction easier and quicker.
Conclusion
The Winchester Model 71 is an iconic rifle that has stood the test of time. It’s beloved by hunters, target shooters, and gun collectors alike for its exceptional accuracy, reliability, and attractive design. It’s durable and well-built, able to withstand the rigors of hard use and use in a wide variety of conditions. All in all, the Model 71 is a wonderful rifle that still performs and looks as good as it did when it was first introduced in 1935.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- The Winchester Model 71 is considered by many to be one of the best lever-action rifles ever produced and is highly sought after by hunters and collectors alike.
- It is made with a solid steel receiver and robust construction, which makes it reliable even in very cold weather.
- It is relatively lightweight and easy to maneuver.
- It has a simple and efficient design that allows for fast and smooth firing.
- The Model 71's sights are adjustable and offer excellent accuracy even at long distances.
Cons:
- This rifle was discontinued over 40 years ago, so spare parts are difficult to find and it can be expensive to repair.
- It is not suitable for modern ammunition, as some rounds may damage the gun’s mechanism.
- The trigger pull is heavy and not adjustable, which can reduce accuracy.
- The open sights on the Model 71 are not as precise as modern optics, limiting its accuracy potential.
Who Should Buy
Anyone looking for a reliable, accurate and powerful lever-action rifle should consider a Winchester Model 71. It is suitable for a variety of hunting situations, from small game to big game. It is also a great choice for collectors and recreational shooting.
However, those with limited experience in rifle shooting should not buy a Winchester Model 71 as it may be too powerful for a novice shooter. Also, due to the historic nature of the rifle, it can be quite expensive, so it may be out of reach for some budget-minded shooters.
Comparisons
| Winchester Model 71 | Product 1 | Product 2 | Product 3 | Product 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Barrel Length | 24" | 24" | 24" | 24" |
| Calibre | .348 | .338 Win Mag | .375 H&H Mag | .348 |
| Safety | Hammer | Lever | Lever | Hammer |
| Magazine Capacity | 4 | 5 | 4 | 4 |
| Length Overall | 43" | 42" | 42" | 44" |
Features / Specs
•Caliber: .348 Winchester
•Capacity: 4-round magazine
•Action: Lever action
•Barrel length: 24"
•Stock: Straight stock with pistol grip
•Sights: Folding ladder rear sight, bead front sight
Popular Accessories
The most popular accessories for the Winchester Model 71 include: a scope mount, a saddle ring, a slug barrel, a recoil pad, a cleaning kit, an extra magazine, a speed-loader, a bipod, a flash suppressor or muzzle brake, and extra sling swivels.
Accuracy
The Winchester Model 71 is widely considered to be one of the most accurate lever-action rifles ever made. It features a 24-inch round barrel with a 1:20 twist that is generally credited with providing extremely accurate shot groups at all ranges. The rifle also sports a semi-buckhorn rear sight graduated to a startling 500 yards. It is believed that the grooved receiver and tightly fitted action contributed significantly to the remarkable accuracy of this rifle. Many people consider the Winchester Model 71 to be the crown jewel of Winchester lever actions.
