The Trulock Model 67 .22 rifle is a legacy rifle for the ages.
As we have talked about before, firearms are often more than just a tool and a gun to shoot for hunters. Many of us treasure the rifles and shotguns that were carried by those before us. Dad, Grandad, your favorite uncle, and others would often leave us these tokens of their legacy knowing they would be used as they did. For quiet walks in the woods and to be admired on the gun rack at camp. Carrying these guns on a hunt or at the range were as close as we could get to them being right there with us, and sometimes they are.
Back in the day, I don’t know exactly when, my Dad gave me a Winchester Model 67 .22 rifle. I think it had been in his family for a long time, I’m not sure. His clan was famous for trading guns and other stuff. Guns didn’t always stay around for some nostalgic reason. (What I would give to have the Winchester Model 37 .410 shotgun that I started squirrel hunting with, but it went down road somewhere….) I would like to see all the squirrels and other animals piled up that little rifle took over the years. (Dad told me it was used as the killin” gun when they would butcher a hog in November or December)
Winchester unveiled the Model 67 .22 in 1934, right in the middle of the Great Depression. I would think this was a pretty gutsy move considering that most people probably had almost no money at this time. The Model 67 sold for a whopping $5.50 (!!) when first brought out. That was a lot of dough in 1934, but sales were brisk. Competition was stiff at this time in the .22 bolt action market with Remington, Mossberg, (that’s right, Mossberg) Iver Johnson, and Savage all having horses in this race. The original version of the Model 67 had a 27″ barrel, a plain walnut stock, and the clean, smooth lines that the practical shooters and hunters of that time admired. (Also true today) Winchester made the Model 67 all the way up to 1963, we don’t know exactly how many were made, but estimates are around 500,000. That is a heck of a run for a little single shot .22 rifle.
Now Trulock Firearms from Whigham, Georgia have filled the gap left by the passing of the Winchester Model 67. Trulock, if you don’t know, has been a maker of fine chokes for shotguns for many years. This is their first venture into manufacturing a firearm and they did it right. The company’s founder George Trulock had the idea and the dream of making a modern-day version of the Model 67 for many years. I first met Mr. Trulock at the SHOT Show in Las Vegas years ago and was always impressed with him.
In talking to him it soon became obvious that this man knew his business. The intricate world of machining and manufacturing shotgun chokes was a second language to him, and he could talk at length about the depth of this world, he was to me, an absolute wizard on choke tubes and patterning shotguns. Besides all that, Mr. Trulock was an absolute gentleman, he was always so kind and took the time to explain things to just another gun writer, I admired him immensely. Mr. Trulock passed away in 2022 and his legacy and the Trulock company is carried on by sons Scott and Jerrod and their staff at Trulock Chokes.
“Dad always liked the Winchester Model 67 rifle” said Scott Trulock, “He shot them as a kid and there was always of few of them around the house when we were growing up. When he decided to make our own firearm, the Model 67 was a natural choice. This is not a cheap rifle and we didn’t mean it to be, this is a .22 rifle that can be given to sons and daughters and passed down to many generations.” Scott said.
Every detail of the Model 67 is built for uncompromising performance. Tight tolerances eliminate unnecessary play, while precision-polished components deliver exceptionally smooth, consistent operation. Its hand-lapped, button-rifled barrel and match-grade chamber work together to maximize accuracy, reduce fouling, and ensure repeatable precision shot after shot. Standard Marble folding leaf iron sights come installed, and the rifle is optics ready with an optional Picatinny rail available. The Model 67 is engineered to perform with absolute confidence.
In my own examination and testing of this rifle, you will understand I am in the very initial stages of wringing out the Model 67. From the first rounds fired on the range though, we have seen good accuracy even with the open sights and my not quite as sharp as they used to be eyes. As a quick note the Marble Arms sights on the Model 67 was a great choice and they feature screw windage and elevation adjustments, something not usually seen on a single shot .22.
At the heart of the Model 67 is the legacy of George Trulock, defined by integrity, precision, and a commitment to doing things the right way—without shortcuts. This rifle reflects that philosophy, built to exceed expectations in every way. The Model 67 stands as his final endeavor, a lasting testament to his craftsmanship and dedication to excellence. www.trulockfirearms.com
Larry Case
