Winchester Model 62A PROTOTYPE LEVER ACTION, ONLY 2 KNOWN

There has long been talk of a Winchester prototype lever action .22 rifle converted from a Model 62A action, barrel, and wood.  A highly engraved Model 62A lever rifle conversion was sold at Rock Island Auction in 2020 that was the same conversion as the one we show here, serial number 317267 originally built by Winchester in 1952.  There is little known about Winchester prototype firearms as many never came to production, including the “Model 62A lever gun” as shown here.  Certainly if such an endeavor was undertaken by Winchester designers they would have started with an existing firearm, made the changes, experimented with reliability, and finally determined the overall cost to tool up for manufacturing such a gun in mass quantities and attempt to predict consumer reaction.  Apparently, some part of this procedure caused the prototype idea to not come full circle and none of these lever guns were ever produced in quantities.  So, what would have happened to the prototype once the project was declined?  Most likely a factory employee would have ended up with the “put together” prototype and finished it up for private use and ownership.  I believe that is what we have here in this ONE-OF-A-KIND Winchester .22 rifle.  Review the photos and you will see a very nice little Winchester rifle with checkered capped pistol grip stock and checkered forend, 98% blue, excellent bore, and an attractive crescent steel buttplate.  Winchester collectors…you won’t have another chance to own this prototype maybe ever.  Don’t hesitate on this one or she will be gone!  Thanks for looking.