US model of 1917 Winchester, Historically significant 30-06shooter
- Category
- Firearms Rifles
- Classification
- Non-restricted
- Action
- Bolt
- Condition
- Very Good
- Manufacturer
- Winchester
- Caliber
- 30-06
- Hand
- Right Handed or Ambidextrous
This Winchester 1917 was made for and used the American expeditionary force in France in World War One. After the war, it was then brought back to the USA and put in storage until it was one of many Winchester 1917s given/lent to the British government for use by the British home guard in World War 2. We know with certainty that this was a British home guard weapon because of the distinctive band of red paint across the front stock. The red paint was to distinguish it from the very similar looking Enfield’s, which were .303 and not 30-06 like the Winchesters. It was taken by the home guard member, by boat, to Dunkirk and left there. We assume it was abandoned to allow more weight and soldiers onto the boats going back to Britain. Dunkirk is where this rifle was gathered up by a group of French partisans including my Great uncle, who knew they would need weapons for himself and other partisans. This rifle did not see much action in world war 2 because he only had 6 rounds (which he did use) and there was of lack of 30-06 ammunition. (until the Americans came). When My great uncle died in the 1980s my Father inherited this rifle and it crossed the Atlantic ocean for the 4th time and about 20 years ago, I inherited it. There are big gaps in the history of what happened with this rifle in world war one and two but it fascinating to me and I do love the feeling of this rifle.
The sights are accurate and the action is incredibly smooth for a 100+ year old rifle. I can get off 6 shots in 4 seconds. Its in overall excellent condition and all original (except for the camouflage tape which can easily be removed) This M1917 Winchester Enfield is still in use today by the Greenland military patrol as its versatile and well suited for arctic weather and taking out polar bears. It was built to be durable and will easily last another 100 years. This rifle has historical significance and still shoots perfectly. I live in Toronto but can ship it anywhere included in the price of $1900.
