U.S. REPEATING ARMS COMPANY, INC.275 Winchester Avenue

New Haven, CT, U.S.A. 06511-1970

This is one of the famous line of WinchesterWorld Standard arms. As one of the ClassicTraditions models you can expect the samequality and satisfaction as with the originalhistoric Model 63 introduced over half a century ago. And, as with the original, you'llappreciate its economy of design, quick handling properties and smooth functioning.

IMPORTANT INSTRUCTIONS FOR

MODEL 63.22 CALIBER BOLT ACTION RIFLE

U.S. REPEATING ARMS COMPANY, INC.275 Winchester Avenue

New Haven, CT, U.S.A. 06511-1970

Administrative Offices:275 Winchester Avenue,

Morgan, UT, U. S. A. 84050-9333

Winchester trademarks licensed from Olin Corporation.

Contents Page

Gun safety warnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

General description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Terminology and descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Serial number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Ammunition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Initial cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Oiling the action . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Full disassembly/takedown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Operating instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

How to load the magazine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

How to operate the action . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

To unload the magazine and chamber . . . . . . . . .25

Sight adjustments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

Mounting a scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

Cleaning and maintenance suggestions . . . . . . . .30

Ordering parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

Service or repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Questions & Winchester-guns.com . . . . . . . . . . .35

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New gun owner’s record.Use the space below to record information about your newWinchester Model 63 rifle.

Serial Number ____________________________________

Caliber __________________________________________

Grade ___________________________________________

Purchase Price ____________________________________

Purchased From ___________________________________

Date of Purchase __________________________________

Winchester trademarks licensed from Olin CorporationMade in USA. Printed in USA.©1997 • KP97082.5/96228

GUN SAFETY WARNINGS

IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT THESE OPERAT-ING INSTRUCTIONS BE THOROUGHLYSTUDIED BEFORE USING THIS FIREARMTO ASSURE PROPER AND SAFE GUNHANDLING. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESEINSTRUCTIONS OR FAILURE TO OBEYANY SAFETY WARNING MAY RESULT ININJURY TO YOURSELF OR OTHERS, ORCAUSE DAMAGE TO YOUR GUN.

As a gun owner, you accept a set of demandingresponsibilities. How seriously you take theseresponsibilities can be the difference between lifeand death. There is no excuse for careless or abusivehandling of any firearm. At all times handle yourrifle and any other firearm with intense respect forits power and potential danger.

PLEASE READ AND UNDERSTAND ALLOF THE CAUTIONS, PROPER HANDLINGPROCEDURES AND INSTRUCTIONS OUT-LINED IN THIS BOOKLET BEFORE USINGYOUR NEW FIREARM.

1. Do not carry a loaded gun with a live round in thechamber while walking, running, climbing a tree,crossing a fence or anywhere you might slip or fall,drop the gun or otherwise bump or jar the gun. Agun that is dropped, bumped, or jarred with a cham-bered round might accidentally discharge even withthe safety on, causing serious injury to you or some-one else. When a round is chambered keep the safe-ty on until you are ready to shoot.

2. Do not rely on the safety to prevent accidentaldischarge. Many safeties merely block the triggerand prevent firing by pulling the trigger. The safetymay not prevent an accidental discharge due to

MODEL 63 SEMIAUTOMATIC RIFLE

In 1933 Winchester introduced the Model 63 rifle.It was an improved variation on the Model 1903which had been made only for an old styleWinchester 22 cartridge called the “22 WinchesterAutomatic Rimfire Smokeless.” The Model 1903was the first Winchester semiautomatic firearm ofany type.

The new Model 63 soon proved a success. It incor-porated the more modern 22 caliber Long Rifle car-tridge. It was like the 1903 in many ways — butwith slight improvements in some areas. It was aquick handling, easy-to-use design with traditionalcraftsmanship and elegant design. Its blow-backsemi-auto action proved highly reliable. Its stock-positioned loading port convenient. The quick take-down system was handy. And its forearm-mountedcocking system (called the operating sleeve) hasalways been regarded as extremely functional.Despite the differences between the ’03 and the 63,the design of the 63 can still be attributed to thegreat Winchester designer, Thomas CrossleyJohnson.

The last of the original 63s was produced over 35years ago. Your new Model 63 is faithful in nearlyevery way — with a level of beautiful finish and fineengraving that you would usually associate only withWinchesters of the "Highly Finished Rifles" era atthe turn of the century.

Study all of the instructions in this manual carefullyto be sure you have covered all information aboutyour Model 63.

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11. Never carry a loaded gun in a motor vehicle orcarry one into a dwelling. Always carefully unloadthe gun before entering a motor vehicle, a dwellingor an area such as a camp. Always point a gun in asafe direction while loading or unloading to preventserious injury in case of an accidental discharge.Never load in the house or in your vehicle.

12. Never shoot at a hard, flat surface or at the sur-face of water to avoid a ricochet and possible seriouspersonal injury to yourself or a bystander.

13. Store your gun in a clean, dry place out of thereach of children and separated from storedammunition.

14. Never alter any parts of your gun. Any alter-ations or adjustments that may become necessary tothe operating mechanism should be performed by aqualified gunsmith.

15. Hunting from elevated surfaces such as tree standsis dangerous. Doing so may increase the risk of han-dling any firearm. Always make certain that the standbeing used is safe, sturdy and stable. Always makecertain your firearm is unloaded when it is beingtaken up and down from the stand. Always make cer-tain that your firearm is not dropped from the standor dropped while it is being taken up or down fromthe stand.

16. Discharging firearms in poorly ventilated areas,cleaning firearms, or handling ammunition may resultin exposure to lead and other substances known tocause birth defects, reproductive harm and other seri-ous physical injury. Have adequate ventilation at alltimes. Wash hands thoroughly after exposure.

dropping, jarring, or bumping a gun.

3. Use only ammunition for which the gun is cham-bered as indicated on the barrel, to prevent exces-sive pressure and possible serious personal injury.

4. Incorrectly reloaded ammunition can cause seri-ous personal injury and damage to the firearm due toexcessive pressure. Reload only after proper instruc-tion and in strict compliance with instruction anddata contained in current reloading manuals.

5. Never point a gun at anything you do not intendto shoot. Always keep it pointed in a safe directionin case of accidental discharge.

6. Always check to ensure that the barrel is free ofobstructions before loading and using the gun. If you experience light recoil or off sound, check the barrelfor an obstruction.

7. Before firing, clean any grease or oil out of barrelwith cleaning rod and patch. Grease or heavy accu-mulation of oil can cause excessive pressure andresult in serious personal injury.

8. Keep barrel, chamber and action free of rust. Rustin the barrel and chamber can cause excessive pres-sures resulting in serious injury. A rusted, pitted oreroded barrel should be replaced.

9. Use hearing protection to prevent ear damagefrom repeated exposure to gunfire.

10. Always use proper shooting glasses to preventeye injury from flying particles.

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Convenient cross bolt safety design.

Elegantly contouredpistol grip stock.

The quick take-down feature allows youto easily disassemble your Model 63 intotwo halves. Loosening a knob on the rearof the receiver is all it takes. The take-down feature also makes it easy to cleanand oil your rifle.

All Model 63 Classic Traditionsfeature beautifully finished walnutstocks and cut checkering.

All-steel receiver and steel components. Everycomponent of every mechanism is of durablemetal — just like the originals.

The styling of the Model 63 is uncommonly balanced. Andits good looks are matched by equally balanced handlingand natural shouldering.

MODEL 63 FEATURES

The receiver top is machined to accept a groove-type scope mount.Even though it is a takedown design, the special way that the bar-rel and receiver top stay together locks in precision and assuresaccuracy no matter how many times you take down your rifle.

The buttstock loading system is conve-nient and easy for any hands, young orold. Loading the magazine is performedwith the rifle comfortably cradled inyour arm. (opposite side)

Sights are made to handle roughconditions. Front and rear sightsare drift adjustable for windage.The rear sight also features anelevator system for quick elevationchanges.

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FIGURE 1

Operating the action is fastand convenient with theunique operating sleevedesign. Push in on the end ofthe sleeve to work the action.Depressing then turning theoperating sleeve tip locks theaction open.

Semiautomatic blow-back action design.The Model 63 is based on the Model1903, which was the first semiautomade by Winchester. The basic designproved so reliable that it lead to thedevelopment of a full line of Winchesterrimfire and centerfire semiautos.

The magazine tube is mountedin the buttstock. A twist onthe knob and it partiallyremoves for loading or fullyremoves for easy unloading.

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stock. The screw on the rear of the receiver is usedto disconnect the front of the receiver from the rear.The entire rifle then easily takes down into two con-venient halves.

TERMINOLOGY AND DESCRIPTIONS

Descriptions in this booklet generally refer to thegun in the horizontal position. That is, in the nor-mal firing position. For example, the muzzle is for-ward or front; the butt stock is rearward or rear; thetrigger is downward or underneath; the sights areupward or on top. Figure 1 covers the general fea-tures and benefits of the Model 63 design.

For general parts terminology, refer to Figure 2A.For breech bolt and bolt slide terminology refer tofigures 2B and 2C.

The Winchester Model 63 is also shown disassem-bled to the extent necessary in order to follow

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

The Model 63 is a semiautomatic rifle that allowsthe shooter to fill the magazine and shoot consecu-tive rounds — taking loaded rounds from the tubularmagazine to the chamber automatically — until themagazine is empty. After each cartridge fires, theaction automatically ejects the empty cartridge outthe ejection port to the right. The action is operatedmanually using a cocking system mounted on theforearm tip. The rod protruding from the tip is calledthe operating sleeve. Pushing it fully in (rearward)opens the action: extracting and ejecting any car-tridge in the chamber and loading a cartridge (if pre-sent) from the magazine into the chamber.

The action itself uses a blowback design, where thefiring of the cartridge actually begins the rearwardmotion of the bolt. Inertia completes the bolt’smotion rearward, cycling the action. The magazineis loaded through a port in the right side of the butt-

FIGURE 2A

Forearm

Magazine

Buttplate

Ejection Port

Trigger Buttstock

Muzzle

Loading Port

Operating Sleeve

Rear SightTakedown ScrewFront Sight

ReceiverSafety

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instructions contained in this book (refer to Figure 7later in this manual). Throughout this manual the“action” refers to the mechanism of this rifle whichloads and secures the cartridges in the chamber.

SERIAL NUMBER

The serial number is located on the bottom of theforward receiver/frame assembly (barrel half of therifle) toward the front (see Figure 3). Record theserial number at the front of this book for futurereference.

AMMUNITION

The caliber of your Model 63 is inscribed on leftside of the barrel, toward the receiver.

U.S. Repeating Arms Co. can assume no responsi-bility for incidents which occur through use of car-tridges of nonstandard dimension or those develop-ing pressures in excess of SAAMI (Sporting Armsand Ammunition Manufacturer’s Institute) estab-lished standards.

Winchester ammunition is always an excellentchoice for your new Winchester rifle, delivering theunmatched performance and dependability you want.

DISCHARGING FIREARMS IN POORLY VENTILATED AREAS, CLEANINGFIREARMS, OR HANDLING AMMUNITIONMAY RESULT IN EXPOSURE TO LEADAND OTHER SUBSTANCES KNOWN TOCAUSE BIRTH DEFECTS, REPRODUCTIVEHARM AND OTHER SERIOUS PHYSICALINJURY. HAVE ADEQUATE VENTILATIONAT ALL TIMES. WASH HANDS THOR-OUGHLY AFTER EXPOSURE.

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Extractor

Ejector

Bolt Face

Bolt

Rear of firing pin

Receiver

F IGURE 2B

FIGURE 2C

Serial Number.Record it for future reference.

F IGURE 3

Hammer

Hammer springCross bolt safety

Takedown screw MagazineFollower

Throat ofMagazine

(Bottom view)

Avoid applying to much oil. Only a light film is nec-essary. Excessive oil should be wiped off.

FULL DISASSEMBLY / TAKEDOWN

Knowing how to easily take down your Model 63 isimportant for cleaning and maintenance.

TO ENSURE THAT YOUR RIFLE ISUNLOADED, OPEN THE ACTION ANDCAREFULLY CHECK THE CHAMBER,FEED MECHANISM AND MAGAZINE TUBEFOR AMMUNITION. LOCK THE ACTION INTHE OPEN POSITION.

The action can be locked in the open position bydepressing the operating sleeve and rotating (turn-ing) the end clockwise or counterclockwise asexplained under “ How to Operate the Action” laterin this manual.

It is a good idea to always wear eye protection whendisassembling any firearm to prevent springs orspring-tensioned parts from injuring you.

Carefully follow the unloading instructions found

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INITIAL CLEANING

Some metal parts of your new rifle have been coatedat the factory with a rust preventative compound.Before using your new Model 63, clean the anti-rustcompound from the inside of the barrel, receiver,breech bolt mechanism and the action chamberareas. A high quality, light weight gun oil should beused to remove this compound and to give your gunits first lubrication. Clean the barrel using a cleaningrod and patch as explained under “Cleaning andMaintenance Suggestions” found later in this book-let. Take down your rifle for cleaning as explainedunder “Full Disassembly/Take down” explained laterin this manual. First lubrication suggestions are alsooutlined below.

If your new Model 63 is for collector’s purposes andyou wish to store it for a long period of time, it ispermissible to leave the rust preventative compoundin place and keep your Model 63 in its box for maxi-mum protection during long-term storage.

IMPORTANT: CLEAN THE INSIDE OF THEBARREL AND CHAMBER TO REMOVE ALLGREASE AND OTHER POSSIBLEOBSTRUCTIONS BEFORE FIRING YOURGUN.

OILING THE ACTION

Before the first firing, and with your rifle disassem-bled as explained below, it is important to wipe themechanism clean and apply a few drops of quality oilon the following surfaces (see Figure 4).

• On the bearing surfaces of the internal hammer.

• Inside top of the front portion of the receiver.

• Breech bolt, on all sides.

• All internal surfaces that slide against each other.

Lightly oil the action at these points

F IGURE 4

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inspection and cleaning. All normal cleaning andbasic maintenance can be performed with the rifleat this stage of disassembly.

WE RECOMMEND THAT YOUR MODEL 63NOT BE TAKEN APART FURTHER THANTHIS. THERE ARE MANY SMALL, FINELYFITTED PARTS, SMALL PINS, SMALLSPRINGS AND SPRING-LOADED PARTSTHAT CAN EASILY BECOME DAMAGEDOR LOST. SOME REASSEMBLY PROCE-DURES REQUIRE SPECIAL TOOLS ANDAN ADVANCED LEVEL OF EXPERTISE TOACCOMPLISH. IF YOUR RIFLE SHOULDNEED FURTHER DISASSEMBLY CON-TACT ONE OF THE AUTHORIZEDSERVICE CENTERS ON THE LISTACCOMPANYING YOUR RIFLE.

later in this manual to assure there are no rounds inthe magazine, chamber or feed areas before takingdown your rifle.

DISASSEMBLY —

1. Remove the magazine from the buttstock by turn-ing the Magazine plug handle about 1/8 turn coun-terclockwise and then pulling the inner magazinetube out rearward from the outer magazine tube

2. Begin to takedown the rifle by loosening thetakedown screw on the rear of receiver (see Figure5). To prevent dropping either half, it’s a good ideato do this with the rifle laying on a table, on top of apadded surface like a soft rag or other non-marringprotection.

3. Separate the gun into two halves by pulling thebutt stock to the rear and forearm to the front (seeFigure 6). Your rifle is now in two compact halves.

3. This exposes most of the internal mechanisms to

Carefully loosen the take downscrew at the rear of the receiver.

F IGURE 5

FIGURE 6

With the rifle laying down, care-fully pull the two halves apart.

16

(see Figure 9). This can be done with the bolt inthe locked or unlocked position. Make sure that thetakedown screw doesn’t obstruct this by pulling itrearward and making sure it stays aligned

5. With the two halves correctly in place, carefullyturn the takedown screw in the clockwise direction.Screw it in until it is finger tight with a fair amountof finger pressure.

6. Reinsert the inner magazine tube. To lock it inplace, turn it until its retainer pin falls into theretainer slot, then turn clockwise about 1/8 turnuntil it stops in the locked position.

7. Your Model 63 is now fully assembled.

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

CAUTION — ALWAYS KEEP THE MUZZLEPOINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION. PRIORTO USING LIVE AMMUNITION, FAMILIAR-IZE YOURSELF THOROUGHLY WITHTHESE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS.

Get accustomed to the feel of your new gun —know the forces required to operate the action,* topull the trigger, to work the action, and above all,know how to place your rifle’s safety in the “on safe”

Your Model 63 will now be in these pieces (see Figure 7):

• Barrel/forearm half (receiver portion)

• Buttstock half (frame portion)

• Inner magazine tube

The internal hammer can be lowered for bettercleaning access by pulling the trigger and slowlylowering the internal hammer with your thumb tothe dropped/forward position (see Figure 8).

REASSEMBLY —

1. Cock the hammer (if it was previously dropped)back to the full cock position with your thumb.

2. Slide the buttstock half (frame) into thebarrel/forearm half (receiver portion) from the rear

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FIGURE 7

Barrel/forearm half

F IGURE 8

Full disassembly

Buttstock half

Inner magazine tube

The hammer can be low-ered to the dropped posi-tion for easier cleaning.

F IGURE 9

Slide the two halves together. Do not force.

Make sure the take down screw startscorrectly into the threads.

1918

However, with time and exposure to the elements itcan wear off.

Never rely totally on your gun’s safety button. It ismerely an aid to safe gun handling. Like anymechanical device the safety can possible fail: it canbe jarred or inadvertently manipulated into anunsafe condition. Always keep your rifle pointed in asafe direction.

THIS MECHANISM WILL NOT NECESSARI-LY PREVENT THE ACCIDENTAL DIS-CHARGE OF THIS FIREARM AS A RESULTOF JARRING OR ABUSE SUCH ASOCCURS WHEN A FIREARM IS DROPPED.

At all times in the field keep the safety in the “ONSAFE” position and the barrel pointed in a safedirection. It is a good idea never to load your rifleuntil you are in the field and shooting is imminentor, if you are at a range, until it is your turn to shoot.For extra safety, and as a courtesy to others, alwayskeep your rifle’s muzzle pointing down range. At anyrange (or around any other people, even when hunt-ing), unless shooting is actually in progress, alwayskeep the action locked open at all times (see proce-dures under “How to Operate the Action”). It is aproper gun handling practice to place your rifle in a

position. The rifle is in the “on safe” position whenthe manual safety is moved fully to the right.

*ACTION: The mechanism of a firearm which loadsand secures the cartridge in the chamber.

Your Model 63 rifle is designed with a cross bolttype safety. It is located just rearward o f the triggeron the trigger guard: convenient for gloved orungloved fingers (see Figure 10). It is essential thatyou become very familiar with the feel, look andoperation of the safety on this rifle before attempt-ing to load or shoot. With the safety in the “ONSAFE” position the trigger is blocked and the riflecannot be fired with a normal pull of the trigger. Inthe “OFF SAFE” position — if your gun is loadedwith a round in the chamber — the chamberedround can be fired by simply squeezing the trigger.

• “ON SAFE”. The safety button is pushed fully tothe right (see Figure 10). The red band on the leftside is NOT showing.

•“OFF SAFE”. The safety button is pushed fully tothe left. A large red band is exposed on the buttonas it protrudes on the left side (see Figure 11). Thered band is an added aid to safe gun handling.

Safety in the “on safe” position.

Safety in the “fire”position

FIGURE 11

FIGURE 10

(View from left side.)

(View from right side.)

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5. Next, push the magazine tube down into positionand lock into place. Turn it until its retainer pinfalls into the retainer slot, then turn clockwiseabout 1/8 turn until it stops in the locked position.

Care should be taken while pushing the tube in, asit is under spring tension.

The rifle is now ready for operation.

HOW TO OPERATE THE ACTION

Make sure the safety is in the “ON SAFE” position.1. Load the chamber by pushing the end of theoperating sleeve fully rearward with one of your fin-gers on your forward hand (hand that holds theforearm when you shoot). Using your pointing fin-ger makes working the action easy. Push the operat-ing sleeve fully rearward until the rearward move-ment of the action stops (see Figure 13).

2. To move a cartridge from the magazine to thechamber, let go of the end of the operating sleeveand allow the sleeve to move forward under spring

case when going to or coming from the shootingarea.

HOW TO LOAD THE MAGAZINE

Use the correct ammunition referenced by theinscription on the barrel. Again, before loading yourgun be sure all grease and oil has been removed fromthe barrel and chamber, and there is no obstruction.

To load the magazine, first place the safety in the“ON SAFE” position. Leave the action (breech bolt)closed at this time.

1. Twist the knob on the end of the magazine tubeabout 1/8 turn counterclockwise to unlock.

2. As you pull out the tube watch it move past theloading port in the right side of the buttstock.

3. Pull the tube out until the magazine followerclears the loading port in the outer magazine tube.

4. With the muzzle pointed downward slightly, insertthe bullet end of the cartridges into the magazinefacing forward (Figure 12) and allow them to slidedown towards the action. Do not exceed the recom-mended capacity of the magazine (ten rounds).

Insert the cartridge through th loading portinto the magazine tube, bullet forward.

F IGURE 12

Push rearward on the operating sleeve withyour finger to operate the action .

F IGURE 13

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3. Turn the operating sleeve tip approximately 1/4to 1/2 turn in either the clockwise or counterclock-wise direction. A built-in limiter will prevent youfrom turing the tip past 1/2 turn. Turning the tipwith the operating sleeve in the rearward positionlocks the operating sleeve in the rearward position(see Figure 15). The action is now locked open andinspection of the chamber and feed mechanisms canbe easily performed. Remember, a limiter keeps youfrom turning the tip of the operating sleeve morethan 1/2 turn.

Use this procedure to lock the action open forcleaning and safety purposes as outlined in the manual.

4. To release the locking mechanism and to allowthe action to return forward, turn the operating

pressure (see Figure 14). The operating sleeve islinked directly to the bolt inside the receiver — sothe bolt will close shut at the same time, and move acartridge from the magazine to the chamber.

CAUTION: YOUR RIFLE IS LOADED,COCKED AND READY TO FIRE.

When ready to shoot, move the safety to the “OFFSAFE” position, then . . . take aim and when on tar-get, squeeze the trigger.

The semiautomatic function of your rifle will auto-matically extract and eject the fired cartridge. Thebolt will then automatically close, while at the sametime moving a loaded cartridge from the magazineinto the chamber. Since the safety remains in the“OFF SAFE” position, your rifle is again ready to firewith simply a squeeze of the trigger.

IF SHOOTING IS NO LONGER IMMINENT,IMMEDIATELY MOVE THE SAFETY TOTHE “ON SAFE” POSITION BY PUSHINGIT FULLY TO THE RIGHT.

LOCKING THE ACTION REARWARD —

The Model 63 has an easy-to-use system for lockingthe action rearward. This is an important operationand you should practice it until you can do it withease.

1. FIRST PLACE THE SAFETY IN THE “ONSAFE” POSITION. Then push the operatingsleeve in fully with your finger. Usually this will bethe pointing finger of the hand holding the forearm.If you intend to lock the action rearward it helps todo this with both your pointing finger and yourthumb grasping the tip.

2. With the operating sleeve pushed in grip theoperating sleeve tip between your pointing fingerand your thumb.

22

FIGURE 14

FIGURE 15

Pull the operating sleeve rearwardwith your thumb and finger. Thenturn it about 1/4 to 1/2 turn to lock.

Release the operating sleeve to automatically load around from the magazine into the chamber.

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TO UNLOAD THE MAGAZINEAND CHAMBER

ALWAYS KEEP THE MUZZLE OF YOURRIFLE POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTIONWHEN LOADING OR UNLOADING YOURRIFLE.

Place the safety in the “ON SAFE” position. Lockthe action rearward by locking the operating sleevetip rearward. With the muzzle pointed downwardwithdraw the inside magazine tube from the rifle.Then carefully tip the rifle muzzle up, buttstockdown, allowing the cartridges to slide out the outermagazine tube into a suitable container. Replace theinside magazine tube into the buttstock and lock inplace. Release the operating sleeve. Work theaction several times by pushing in and releasing theoperating sleeve to assure that there are no roundsin the magazine, in the chamber or in the actionfeed areas. Lock the action open again. Look intothe open action making sure there are no cartridgesin the action, and observe the empty chamber andthe magazine follower (see Figure 17).

Always unload your gun and lock the action rear-ward when you have finished shooting, and before

sleeve tip until it unlocks. This will release the oper-ating sleeve to travel fully forward and close theaction. There is only one position of the tip that thesleeve will unlock — simply turn the operatingsleeve tip until you are in alignment with this posi-tion and the operating sleeve will release forward.There is a slight radius shape cut on one side of thetip. When this is facing up, toward the barrel, theoperating sleeve is in the released position (seeFigure 16). If you turn the tip until it stops and theoperating sleeve does not release forward it isbecause you have turned it until it encountered thelimiter. Simply turn the operating sleeve tip in theopposite direction until the operating sleeve releasesand goes fully forward, at the same time closing theaction.

CAUTION: IF THE MAGAZINE IS LOADED,RELEASING THE OPERATING SLEEVELOCKING MECHANISM WILL ALWAYSMOVE A CARTRIDGE FROM THE MAGA-ZINE INTO THE CHAMBER. WITH THESAFETY IN THE OFF SAFE POSITION ANDA ROUND IN THE CHAMBER YOUR RIFLECAN BE FIRED BY SIMPLY PULLING THETRIGGER.

FIGURE 16

Operating sleeve in the released position.

Look into the action to make surethere are no cartridges in the cham-ber or feed mechanism.

F IGURE 17

Make sure you can see the magazine follower.

2726

rear sight with your fingers and move the notchedelevator either forward or backward (see Figure 18).To raise point of impact, use your fingers to lift upon the blade and slide the elevator rearward.Adjusting the sight to make your gun shoot lower isjust the opposite — move the elevator forward.Remember:

• Move the blade and holder up to shoot higher.

• Move the blade and holder down to shoot lower.

RIGHT OR LEFT WINDAGE ADJUSTMENTS —

On Model 63 sights, the entire rear sight bladeholder is dove-tailed in the rear sight base. To adjustfor windage, gently move the rear sight blade to theright or left by tapping at the dove-tail using a woodor fiber dowel or hammer that will not mar the sight(see Figure 19). If you tap to the right your gun will

putting your gun away. Consider your rifle fullyunloaded when the magazine, chamber and feedareas contain no cartridges and the action is lockedrearward.

SIGHT ADJUSTMENTS

All Model 63 rifles are fitted with open sights. Thestyle and adjustment system may vary between mod-els and grades.

The proper procedure is to shoot a group with thesights set as they come from the factory (intermedi-ate position on both elevation and windage), andthen make incremental adjustments to move thesight blade and blade holder to position the groupon your target.

BEFORE MAKING ANY SIGHT ADJUST-MENTS, MAKE SURE YOUR RIFLE ISFULLY UNLOADED AND THE MUZZLE ISPOINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION. PLACETHE SAFETY IN THE “ON SAFE”POSITION.

UP OR DOWN ELEVATION ADJUSTMENTS —

Adjusting elevation on your Model 63 requires youto lift up the rear notch blade holder on your rifle’s

FIGURE 19

Tap carefully.Do not mar thebarrel or sight.

Lift up on the notch blade holderand move the elevator forwardor rearward with your fingers.

F IGURE 18

29

shoot more to the right. Moving the blade holder tothe left is just as easily done. Note how much youadjust the sight as you sight-in your Model 63.Remember:

• Move the rear sight to the right to shoot far-ther to the right on the target.

• Move the rear sight to the left to shoot fartherto the left on the target.

Care should be taken not to mar the finish or bendsight components when adjustments are made.

The front sight bead is also held in a dove-tailmount on the sight base. It is possible to makewindage adjustments by tapping it to one side or theother, just like the rear base. Remember, whenadjusting the front sight you get the opposite results:move to the right and you shoot more to the left,move the bead to the left and you’ll shoot more tothe right.

All sight adjustments — of course — are a matter oftrial and error. Remember, it is usually necessary toreset your sights when you change type or evenbrand of ammunition. High velocity 22 Long Rifleammunition will almost always have a differentpoint of impact than a target grade load or a hollowpoint load.

SIGHT MAINTENANCE —

Occasionally check your sights to make sure theyhave not been jarred or vibrated out of adjustment.This is especially important after extensive shootingor after hunting under rugged conditions. Front andrear sight bases should always be tight on the barreland dove-tails should be snug.

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SIGHT PICTURE —

The correct sight picture for the sights on yourModel 63 is with the front bead resting in the U-shaped notch in the sight blade. The bead itselfshould rest directly under the point of impact. Forexample, if you were shooting a conventional smallbore target, the round, black bull’s-eye would appearto rest on top of the front bead (see Figure 20).

MOUNTING A SCOPE

The top of the receiver on every Model 63 isgrooved to accept standard 22 caliber rifle-typescope mounts. Depending on the type of basesand/or mounts you purchase, your rifle will acceptthin-tube scopes, red-dot type sights or standardrifle scopes. On the 63 the barrel is attached rigidlyto the top portion of the receiver. So, even thoughyour rifle is a take-down design, your scope stayssighted in even after the action is taken down.

Carefully follow all instructions provided with yourscope mounts, rings and scope when mounting yourscope.

Bead

Notch

Targetbull’s-eye

FIGURE 20Correct sight picture.

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Take down your Model 63 into the barrel/receiverhalf and the buttstock half as explained previously.

Take extra care to protect the rifling at the muzzleof your rifle from damage (which can affect accura-cy). A muzzle protector (available at most good gunshops) is always a good idea.

1. Use a cleaning rod with a tip and patch suitablefor the size of your Model 63’s .22 caliber bore.Make sure the patch is large enough for a snug fit inthe bore. Insert the rod and patch into the barrel atthe muzzle end and run it back and forth severaltimes. Although it is possible to remove the boltfrom the Model 63, it requires special tools and someexpertise — and is therefore, not recommended.

2. Push the operating sleeve fully in and lock it (andthe action) rearward to inspect the chamber andbore for brass, copper, lead and powder fouling. Anormal amount of powder residue can be expectedand is not serious. It can usually be removed byrepeating step one, using a patch saturated with sol-vent. If or when fouling should become heavy, it canbe removed with a brass bore brush. Dip or spray thebrush with solvent and scrub the chamber and boreuntil the fouling is removed. To prevent brass bris-tles from breaking off, the brush should be pushedcompletely through the bore before being with-drawn. Because you are cleaning the barrel with thebreech bolt in place it is helpful to use a brush thathas a shorter overall length so it is possible to push itpast the chamber. Keep the operating sleeve (andbolt) locked rearward during the cleaning procedure.

CLEANING AND MAINTENANCESUGGESTIONS

Your Model 63 will function better and more reli-ably over a longer period of time if it is properlymaintained and kept clean.

BEFORE PERFORMING ANY CLEANINGPROCEDURES, ALWAYS MAKE CERTAINTHERE ARE NO CARTRIDGES IN THECHAMBER, MAGAZINE OR ACTION/FEEDAREAS.

You should clean your Model 63 after every day ofshooting and more often if it becomes excessivelydirty.

A minimum cleaning includes wiping down theaction and oiling key parts. Most regular mainte-nance will also include cleaning the barrel. If youencounter a function problem be sure to give yourgun a thorough cleaning to see if it solves the prob-lem before seeking the services of one of ourAuthorized Repair Centers, our service facility or acompetent gunsmith. To clean your firearm, adhereto the following general guidelines.

CLEANING PROCEDURES —

BE CERTAIN YOUR GUN’S CHAMBERAND MAGAZINE ARE UNLOADED.ALWAYS WEAR PROTECTIVE SAFETYGLASSES DURING ALL CLEANING PRO-CEDURES. KEEP AMMUNITION AWAYFROM THE CLEANING AREA. DO NOTTEST THE FUNCTION OF YOUR FIREARMWITH LIVE AMMUNITION.

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8. Wipe all wood surfaces with a soft cloth.

9. When transporting only, store your Model 63 in aquality protective case to prevent scratches anddents. For long term storage, store in a dry place toprevent corrosion. It is acceptable to store yourModel 63 taken down. Store away from children.

MAKE SURE YOUR RIFLE IS UNLOADEDAND ALWAYS STORE AMMUNITIONSEPARATELY.

OTHER CLEANING SUGGESTIONS —

• Never pour large quantities of oil into the receiveror other parts. It can drain down to the wood andsoften it — and cause permanent damage and loos-ening of the stock.

• After extended periods of heavy use, your rifleshould be taken to a qualified gunsmith to have theaction disassembled for professional cleaning andlubrication.

NEVER ATTEMPT TO TAKE YOUR MODEL63 APART FURTHER THAN EXPLAINED INTHIS MANUAL.

This is a specialized, finely fitted mechanism. Youmay permanently mar it by attempting to disassem-ble the inner mechanism assemblies. If further disas-sembly for service or cleaning is required, take yourgun to a U. S. Repeating Arms CompanyAuthorized Repair Center or a competent gunsmithas explained under “Service or Repair.”

3. After fouling has been removed the bore shouldbe wiped dry. Then pass a slightly oiled patchthrough the bore for preservation. A fine, light gunoil is recommended.

4. Wipe all exposed metal surfaces of the receiver,forearm and barrel with a clean rag. Finger marksshould be removed because they provide a placewhere moisture can accumulate. Any dried oil inthe receiver area should also be removed.

5. Lightly oil your gun at the points described under“Oiling the Action” found earlier in this manual.Ordinary good judgment will, of course, indicatethat the metal of the gun should receive a light filmof oil any time the rifle has been exposed to weatheror handling. This is very important and must bedone with every gun. Remember, the polished, fine-ly fitted surfaces of the receiver and action mecha-nisms must always have a thin film of oil. Make surethat the surfaces of the breech bolt and bolt slideare especially clean and lightly oiled with a highquality gun oil. Use solvent and a toothbrush orother suitable brush to clean around the extractor,ejector and other small breech bolt components.With the Model 63 an aerosol-type oil can helpgreatly in “spraying away” residues on the breechbolt. When satisfied, wipe clean and lightly oil.

6. INSPECT THE BARREL AND CHAMBER.TO MAKE CERTAIN THAT NO PATCHESHAVE BEEN INADVERTENTLY LEFT INTHEM. Remove any that remain.

7. Reassemble your rifle if you performed a completecleaning.

QUESTIONS

If you have other questions about Winchester riflesand shotguns, call or write our Customer ServiceDepartment:

Customer ServiceU.S. Repeating Arms Company, Inc.275 Winchester AvenueMorgan, Utah 84050-9333Phone: 1-800-945-5237

WINCHESTER-GUNS.COM

U.S. Repeating Arms Company offers an informa-tion resource for you on the world wide web.

• List of authorized repair centers.

• Customer service information.

• Answers to many technical and historical questions.

• Links to helpful sites.

Go to: www.winchester-guns.com

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ORDERING PARTS

To order parts, please write our parts departmentand furnish the following: your name, address, andtelephone number. Also specify the model and serialnumber of your gun. When we receive your request,we will send an order form and a parts breakdownwith prices.

Write to:

Parts DepartmentU.S. Repeating Arms Company, Inc.275 Winchester AvenueNew Haven, Connecticut 06511-1970

CAUTION: PARTS ARE MADE FORWINCHESTER BRAND FIREARMS MANU-FACTURED BY OR FOR U.S. REPEATINGARMS COMPANY, INC., AND SHOULDNOT BE USED IN OTHER GUNS EVENTHOUGH MODELS MAY BE SIMILAR.IMPROPERLY FITTED PARTS MAY BEDANGEROUS.

SERVICE OR REPAIR

If your Winchester firearm should ever need repairor service, please utilize one of the world-wide net-work of U.S. Repeating Arms Company AuthorizedRepair Centers for Winchester firearms. If you haveany questions about how to obtain service for yourWinchester firearm, call or write the AuthorizedRepair Center (ARC) nearest you. A list of ARCs ispackaged with your new gun. If you need to obtain anew list of ARCs call us at:

1-203-789-5000

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