The semi-automatic has always been a point of contention in hunting camp. They typically sacrifice some accuracy compared to a bolt gun. The larger magazines and unsightly lines of military descended semi automatics has also served to turn away potential fans. There are however, a few sleek semiautomatics for the woods; one such gun is the Winchester Model 100.
History
The Model 100 had a brief lifespan during a tumultuous time for Winchester. The Model 100 was originally introduced in 1961 as a companion for Winchester’s new box fed lever action, the Model 88. Winchester chambered them in 308, 243, and 284 Winchester, with 308 being the most common.
The Model 100 managed to survive the 1964 overhaul at Winchester relatively unscathed. The only change of note was the switch from checkered to pressed checkering. This is not the end of the world as it is entirely a fit and finish change and does not affect function.
Due to rising costs of labour Winchester discontinued the Model 100 in 1973. That spelled the end of the commercial production. However, over a quarter million rifles were produced and they are found on the used market to this day.
Specifications
As stated above, the Model 100 is a semi-automatic rifle. The action is a gas-piston actuated rotating bolt design reminiscent of the M1 Garand. The charging handle is part of an operating rod which cycles the action. Aesthetically, the gas piston is hidden inside the stock which helps with appearances. The safety is a cross-bolt design located at the front of the trigger guard. Like many older designs, virtually all components are wood and steel.
Hitting the scales at 7.5lbs, the Winchester is reasonably light. The standard 22 inch barrel is a comfortable length. Pleasantly, the gun comes with iron sights already installed. The drilled and tapped receiver is ready for those who prefer an optic. Finally the steel magazines were very similar to the Model 88 magazines and held 4 rounds.
As a short aside, the firing pins in these rifles are known to be brittle. Winchester issued a recall in 1990 which fixed the issue. If one has an older firing pin Winchester will replace it to this day.
Strengths
First off, the Model 100 we tested was unfailingly reliable. Feeding was smooth and the ejection was strong and positive. The bolt locked open reliably on empty magazines, which seated solidly in the action and were easy to remove. Additionally we shot various weights of 308 bullets from 150-180 grains and the Winchester had no issues.
Next, the gun just looks sharp. The aesthetics of a gun are rarely mentioned in reviews, but in this case it is warranted. Unlike most other autoloaders, the Model 100 has a one piece stock which gives the gun old school lines.
Thirdly, these classic self-loaders are quite affordable. Nowadays, second hand copies are available for 600-700 dollars. Because of the lack of supply, Model 100s are a sound investments as they will continue to go up in value.
Finally, the Model 100’s are comfortable to shoot. A virtue of the gas powered semi-automatic design is a reduction in recoil. This makes the 308 comfortable to shoot and the 243 hardly recoil at all. Unfortunately the author hasn’t had the opportunity to shoot the 284 Winchester, but the ballistics indicate it would be similar to the popular 308.
Weaknesses
With all those strengths, you’re probably wondering why the Winchester Model 100 has gone the way of the dodo bird. One of the main reasons is the accuracy. With a 4x optic the best that I could get the Model 100 to group was around 3-4 MOA. This really limits the rifles effective range, making it an effective deer rifle out to 250 yards despite the 308 having the energy to do the job much further out. There are probably accurate Model 100s out there, but ours sure wasn’t.
Next, the ease of disassembly for maintenance. Taking apart the Winchester Model 100 for cleaning is an ordeal. Much like the Winchester 88, Winchester designed the rifle with reliability and looks as priorities. On the other hand, expedient field maintenance is much further down the list. Unlike military semi-automatics the Model 100 is meant to be cleaned once after deer season then put in the cabinet until next year.
Lastly, the reloading procedure is awkward and unergonomic. The follower on the magazine locks the bolt open, but there is no bolt release. Instead, the bolt slams forward upon removal of the magazine. A locked open bolt puts pressure on the magazine, requiring three hands to reload. While quick reloads are not essential in a hunting gun, good ergonomics make a firearm more enjoyable to hunt with.
Competition
Despite how long self-loading designs have been around, there aren’t that many autoloading hunting rifles. Common competitors would be the Remington 742, the Browning BAR, and the more recent Benelli R1.
The Remington 742 would be very comparable, although a free-floating barrel would likely give it the edge in the accuracy department. The Browning BAR has a much better fit an finish as well as better accuracy. However, the hinged floorplate magazine system on the BAR can be a drawback for some.
The Benelli R1 is a much more modern design and will be slightly lighter. Be wary however, because like anything Benelli the R1 demands a much higher price tag. The R1 has a so-so reputation for accuracy.
Closing Thoughts
The Winchester Model 100 is a beautiful deer rifle that is soft-shooting and stylish. However, the design shows its age in its accuracy and ease of maintenance. Like most firearms, the Winchester has its place.
Consider the Model 100 suitable for applications that you would normally pursue with a lever gun. Truly, many of the benefits and drawbacks of the Model 100 are similar to a Winchester Model 94. They provide fast follow-up shots and a short compact rifle that carries well. The compromise is the accuracy limits shots to closer distances than with traditional bolt action designs.
The Model 100 is not the rifle for everyone. For those who hunt in thick timber and who want a rifle that handles well and looks good doing, it the Model 100 is a viable option. For those hunting larger areas where longer shots are the norm, there are better rifles available. Take care to use the Model 100 in the appropriate terrain and she will serve well for years to come.