Winchester Model 69

Winchester Repeating Arms · Rifle · Discontinued · 1935

Also known as: Model 69, Winchester 69, Model 69A

Overview

The Winchester Model 69 is an American bolt-action repeating rifle chambered in .22 Long Rifle (and also handling .22 Long and .22 Short rimfire cartridges). Introduced in 1935 and designed by Frank Burton, it was an inexpensive takedown sporting and training rifle fed from a detachable box magazine, with an optional single-shot adapter. From 1937 the action was revised to cock on opening with a sliding side safety, leading to the improved Model 69A. Roughly 355,000 were produced before the line ended in 1963.

Specifications

Weight (empty)3100 g (109.3 oz)
Overall Length1080 mm (42.52")
Barrel Length610 mm (24.02")
Action TypeBolt Action
Firing MechanismStriker Fired
Trigger TypeSingle Action
Magazine Capacity5 rounds
Magazine TypeDetachable Box
Muzzle Velocity396 m/s (1299 fps)
Muzzle Energy203 J (150 ft·lbf)
Effective Range90 m (98 yd)
Barrel RiflingRight Hand
Rifling Twist406 mm (15.98")
Number of Grooves6
Frame MaterialSteel
Barrel MaterialSteel
Stock MaterialWalnut
FinishBlued

Calibers

Features

Variants

Service history

Operators

Production

Estimated total produced: 355,363 · Production years: 1935-1963

Approximately 355,363 examples sold across the Model 69 and 69A across the production run.

Origin

Country of origin: United States

Designer: Frank Burton

Discontinued: 1963

Notes

Takedown design: the barreled action separates from the stock by turning a screw beneath the stock, which could be done with a coin. Offered with 5- and 10-round magazines plus a single-shot adapter; Target and Match variants added peep sights and slings.

Background

A Depression-era plinker and trainer, the Model 69 was Winchester's affordable answer to the bolt-action .22 market and taught countless American youths to shoot. Its penny-turn takedown screw made it a favorite for cleaning and transport.