Hi all,
Have a quick question.
What was the model and year of the first rifles chambered for the 348 Win cartridge?
I may have an oppertunity to buy a pre 1900 rifle in 348, I do not know the model or year, but the widow believes it is from the late 1800's.

Cheers.

I think you will find that the Model 71/348 rifle was introduced in the mid 30's. It was a revised version of the '86 Winchester. In short there were no '71's made prior. The actions do appear to be very similar and perhaps the current owner is just confused as to what she actually has?? Winchester's "old school" senior management at the time were not in favor of the "fancy" bolt guns and felt that they had made their mark with lever guns and decided that the modernized '86/71 would be the ultimate hunting rifle for all of North America. The model 54 Winchester bolt gun of the 20's was not doing so well and plans for what we now know as the fabled Model 70 were moving forward and again, the "old school" lever gun management thought the bolt gun was the wrong course of action. I have had various Model 70's over the years, but still have the Model 71/348 if that's any indication as to which school of thought I support.

I've had a secret love affair with early 71s for decades. I currently have a pre war deluxe for sale with the bolt peep and I may pull it off the market as I like it too much and it is so accurate. I've been told the first few 71s were sold in 1935 and production began in earnest in 1936. I'm sure the widow is in error and it may be her guess or she was told something by someone who knows nothing.
Cheers,
Cal

The 71's were born the same year as I was born, 1935,

Thanks guys, have been away from a pooter for a while.
I have still not seen the rifle, I was planning on making the drive to have a look at it, but had other mire important things of priority.
A third party is holding the firearms, as she is not licensed, she is describing what is written on the insurance documentation, it appears to be a '71 at this stage.
Again, thank you for all your help, these rifles and cartridge are rare here in Australia.

Cheers.

I'd go and look at it. Might be OK for sambar.

Your opening remark reminds me of my three-year-old grandson when he saw a small typewriter:
"What sort of pooter is that, Mummy?"