This video showcases a rare Winchester Model 61 smoothbore rimfire shotgun, a unique variant of the classic .22 pump-action rifle. Brownells Gun Techs Steve Ostrem and Keith Ford discuss its historical context, referring to such firearms as "garden guns" used for pest control. They explain the "Rutledge bore" design, where the barrel flares out after the initial .22 caliber section to improve shot spread. While originally practical for clearing small pests, this well-preserved example is now considered a collectible curiosity.
This "From the Vault" video from Brownells features Steve and Keith at Rock Island Auction House showcasing a highly customized Mauser 98 sporter rifle with a significant historical connection. The rifle was a Christmas gift in 1940 from Hermann Göring, commander of the Nazi Luftwaffe, to Franz Gürtner, the Third Reich's Minister of Justice. Despite its association with controversial figures, the Mauser is presented as a remarkable example of gunsmithing artistry, boasting features like a detachable scope, color case-hardened receiver, double-set triggers, express sights, a full-length barrel rib, a drilling-style safety, lever-released floorplate, engraved bolt handle, horn grip cap, and a popup cheekpiece. It's also a takedown rifle for easy transport. The video touches on the rifle's journey from Germany to Illinois and the brief ownership by Gürtner before his death in 1941.
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