Winchester developed Model 61 in an attempt to keep pace with its competitors' hammerless .22 rifles. Featured 24" round or octagonal barrel and could be ordered by customer in a variety of configurations. Collector interest is high, because of the fairly large number of variations. Model 61 is often considered a companion to Winchester Model 12 and Model 42 shotguns. Model 61 was fitted with plain walnut pistol-grip stock, with grooved slide handle. All Model 61s were take-down variety. Pre-war models will have a short slide handle. Manufactured between 1932 and 1963. Approximately 342,000 guns were sold.

Following is a list of cham­ber and barrel variations found in this model:
1. 24" round barrel; .22 Short, Long, LR.
2. 24" octagonal barrel; .22 Short only; add 150 percent.
3. 24" octagonal barrel; .22 LR only; add 150 percent.
4. 24" octagonal barrel; .22 WRF only; add 100 percent.
5. 24" round barrel; .22 LR shot only; add 200 percent.
5A.24" round barrel; shot only Routledge bore; add 200 percent.
6. 24" round barrel; .22 WRF only; add 125 percent.
7. 24" round barrel; .22 LR only; add 50 percent.
8. 24" round barrel; .22 Win. Magnum; add 50 percent.
9. 24" round barrel; .22 Short only; add 100 percent.