Western Field Rifle 22: A Guide to History, Value, and Features

Table of Contents

From the Catalog to the Field: A Brief History of Western Field

The name “Western Field” conjures images of rugged outdoorsmen and simple, dependable gear. But the history of these firearms actually starts with a mail-order giant: Montgomery Ward. Western Field wasn’t a manufacturer itself; instead, it was a brand name used by Montgomery Ward to sell firearms and other products sourced from various manufacturers. This was a common practice during much of the twentieth century, with retailers often contracting with existing gunmakers to produce firearms branded with their own names.

The appeal of Western Field firearms lay in their affordability and accessibility. Montgomery Ward’s catalogs, widely distributed across the country, brought these rifles directly to people’s homes. This made them a popular choice for farmers, hunters, and families looking for a reasonably priced firearm. The concept of rebadging, or essentially selling the same firearm under different names, allowed Montgomery Ward to offer a range of firearms at competitive prices. Understanding this rebadging practice is crucial when researching a Western Field Rifle 22, as many models are easily identifiable as re-branded versions of well-known models from established manufacturers.

The era of Western Field rifles spanned a significant period, roughly from the 1930s until Montgomery Ward’s decline in the late 20th century. During this time, they sold a wide variety of firearms, including shotguns, rifles, and even handguns. The Western Field Rifle 22 models, however, are particularly sought after due to their widespread use and their connection to the classic American shooting experience.

Unveiling the Models: A Look at the Varieties of the Western Field .22

One of the most intriguing aspects of researching the Western Field Rifle 22 is deciphering the model numbers and identifying the original manufacturers. Since Montgomery Ward didn’t make these rifles, the key lies in understanding which manufacturer produced each model. Often, the Western Field model number can be cross-referenced with a manufacturer’s catalog to determine its origin.

For example, one of the common and well-regarded Western Field Rifle 22 models is often a rebadged version of a Marlin rifle. Other popular manufacturers whose models were sometimes rebranded as Western Field included companies like Mossberg and Savage-Stevens. This practice made it possible for Montgomery Ward to offer a diverse selection of rifles at competitive prices, benefiting the retailer and the consumer alike.

The models varied, encompassing different actions, magazine types, and features. This broad range ensured there was a Western Field Rifle 22 to suit various needs and preferences. This is where a bit of research becomes essential. To identify your specific Western Field .22, you’ll want to check online resources like gun value guides and online forums to determine its likely manufacturer.

Exploring the Features: Details That Defined the Western Field .22

The Western Field Rifle 22 models, while varied in their origins, generally shared common features that contributed to their appeal. These were firearms built for practicality and ease of use, often designed for recreational shooting, small game hunting, and target practice. Understanding these features is key to appreciating their place in firearms history.

Action Types

The most common action types found in the Western Field Rifle 22 include:

Bolt-Action: Known for their simplicity, bolt-action rifles offered a reliable and affordable option. The bolt mechanism is manually operated to load, fire, and eject cartridges. This is often the first rifle many individuals learn to shoot with.
Lever-Action: A classic action, lever-action rifles are operated by a lever located under the receiver. This action offers a fast follow-up shot capability, making it suitable for hunting and fast-paced shooting.
Semi-Automatic: These rifles use the energy from the fired cartridge to automatically cycle the action, meaning the shooter only needs to pull the trigger for each shot.

Magazine Types

Magazine designs are another key element to consider.

Tube Magazines: Commonly found on bolt-action and lever-action rifles, tube magazines are located within the barrel or stock and hold cartridges in a line.
Box Magazines: These detachable magazines hold cartridges in a box-shaped configuration and offer faster reloading capabilities. They are usually found on semi-automatic models.

The stocks, the part of the rifle held against the shoulder, were typically made of wood, most often hardwood such as walnut or birch. Later models might feature synthetic stocks. The material choice contributed to the rifle’s overall weight and feel.

Many Western Field Rifle 22 models featured open sights, which consisted of a front bead or post and a rear notch sight. Some models came with scope mounts, allowing for the attachment of optical scopes.

Understanding the Specifications: The Basics of .22 Caliber

The term “.22” refers to the caliber, or the diameter of the bore of the rifle. The Western Field Rifle 22 typically chambered the .22 Long Rifle cartridge. This is a versatile and popular round, known for its affordability and low recoil. However, some models might have been chambered in .22 Short or .22 Long cartridges, which are less common.

.22 Long Rifle (.22 LR): The most common and versatile cartridge, known for its accuracy and availability.
.22 Short: An older cartridge, often found in older models.
.22 Long: An intermediate cartridge, less common than the .22 LR.

Other specifications to consider include:

Barrel Length: This can vary, affecting the overall size and accuracy of the rifle.
Overall Length: A significant factor in handling and storage.
Weight: Related to the materials used and the overall size of the rifle.
Magazine Capacity: Affects the number of shots before reloading.

Assessing the Value: What Makes a Western Field .22 Worth?

The value of a Western Field Rifle 22 can fluctuate significantly. Several factors contribute to its worth, including:

Model Rarity: Some models are more common than others. Rarity often increases value.
Condition: The physical state of the rifle is paramount. Condition grades like “new in box,” “excellent,” “good,” “fair,” and “poor” significantly influence the price.
Originality: Is the rifle all original, or have parts been replaced? Original rifles tend to be more valuable.
Demand: Collector interest plays a large role. Popular models and those with a strong collector base tend to command higher prices.
Accessories: The presence of original boxes, manuals, and other accessories can enhance the value.
Market Trends: Gun prices fluctuate. Research current market trends using resources like online auction sites and gun value guides.

Determining value often requires researching comparable sales, examining auction results, and consulting with gun appraisers. The price can change based on the factors above.

Caring for Your .22: Maintenance and Safety Essentials

Owning a Western Field Rifle 22 comes with responsibilities. Safe handling and proper maintenance are crucial for longevity and enjoyment.

Safety First: Always treat every firearm as if it were loaded. Follow the four basic rules of gun safety:
1. Treat all guns as if they are loaded.
2. Never point the muzzle at anything you are not willing to destroy.
3. Keep your finger off the trigger until your sights are on the target and you have decided to fire.
4. Be sure of your target and what is beyond it.
Cleaning: Regular cleaning is essential. Disassemble the rifle (following instructions or professional guidance), clean the bore, and lubricate moving parts.
Storage: Store the rifle unloaded and in a secure location, away from children.
Professional Help: If you encounter mechanical issues, consult a qualified gunsmith.

Finding Your Own: Where to Look for a Western Field .22

Finding a Western Field Rifle 22 can be an exciting endeavor. Here are a few avenues to explore:

Online Auction Sites: Platforms like GunBroker.com often feature a variety of models.
Gun Shows: Gun shows are excellent places to browse and meet with potential sellers.
Local Gun Shops: Local shops might have a used section that contains Western Field rifles.
Private Sales: Classified ads and private sales can sometimes offer good deals.

In Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of the Western Field .22

The Western Field Rifle 22 represents more than just a firearm. It’s a piece of history, a symbol of a simpler time, and a reminder of the enduring appeal of the .22 caliber rifle. These rifles offer a connection to the past and a chance to experience the joy of shooting a classic firearm. The combination of affordability, reliability, and historical significance makes them a sought-after addition to any collection.

Enjoy your Western Field Rifle 22 responsibly, and appreciate the history and craftsmanship of these classic firearms!