Favorite Firearms: A Winchester Model 54 Turns 100

Serving during World War I in 1918, my father completed two years in the Engineer Corps. In addition to his engineering duties, he and all the other soldiers had to carry and qualify with the Model 1903 Springfield rifle, since they were often on the front lines.

Returning to deer hunting in his home state of Pennsylvania, he recalled the accuracy and lethality of the 1903, and so he purchased a Winchester Model 54 in .30-’06 Sprg. The serial number, 207, confirms its early production in 1925.

My father hunted successfully with his Model 54 for more than 40 years until just four years prior to his passing in 1969. It then became a treasured possession to both my brother and me. As many readers may know, the Model 54 was the precursor to the renowned Model 70, a rifle that was desired and cherished, especially prior to 1964. Since I knew what a remarkable rifle Winchester had manufactured, I purchased my own Model 70 Featherweight in 1959.

In 1997, I began reloading, and I specialized in trying to maximize the lethality and accuracy of both rifles. Not surprisingly, they were comparable in most respects. The Model 54, however, has a 2" barrel-length advantage, and I was able to achieve tighter 1" to 2" groups with it at 100 yards.

Yes, these two treasured rifles have been in the hands of my children and grandchildren, and the Model 54 “Centurion” will hopefully continue its heritage for many years to come.

—Joe Kuhn