JC Higgins model 31?

[ACfixer]

I just happened upon an old JC Higgins (Sears) model 31 .22LR complete with a pretty cool retractable strap in the stock. Seems to function correctly and it's in nice looking shape. Quick research tells me they were made by High Standard. Anyone ever owned or fired one? Know anything about them? Know how to find the manufacture date?



Strap retracted...

[pacrat]

Beautimus.

As I started my shooting experiences in the hardwoods of the Ozarks over 60 yrs ago. I've always had a liking of 22's that shoot S-L-LR.

Shorts are a lot quieter in the woods. You don't scare every squirrel in the county away, when you shoot the first one in the eye.

Well done Sir.

[ACfixer]

Thanks Pacrat, I know it's not a high dollar piece... but it's not about that is it?

My first gun was a Winchester 190 and this one will probably feed as poorly as that one did I'll guess, we'll see. I've just grown to really love the nostalgic stuff from this era, a simpler time for sure. This thing was $36 in the Sears wish book.

[homelessdude]

I have one I bought years ago. Tracked down an old JC Higgins scope for it that was like new. I have only shot lr 22 in mine but it works great. When I got it it would jam quite a bit. When I took it apart I noticed the recoil spring behind the bolt had a kink in it. Wolf springs sells a replacement and it has worked fine ever since. It really is a fun rifle and the sling actually works.

[TheReluctantCraftstronaut]

My father has one that he'll pass on to myself or my brother one day. I don't know much about it except that it sat for 20 years and after a short cleaning session it chewed through the cheapest bricks of ammo I could throw at it with no issues at all. Scope was dead accurate still as well. Fun little plinker.

[Calif Hunter]

There is one listed in the next Little John's auction but the listing says Model 36 and the narrative says Model 30. It looks like Model 30 on the barrel. It has the retractable sling but is chambered for .22 LR only and the cocking handle is on the left side with the ejection to the right.

https://www.proxibid.com/Firearms-Military-Artifacts/Firearms/20EP-202-J-C-HIGGINS-MDL-36/lotInformation/55449911

[Garand Hunter]

Keep it don't sell it ! Wish I still had the one I let go like 25 yrs ago.

Psalm 1

[dfletcher]

The Model 31 was the latest in a series that started with the Model 28 IIRC. I think I have the Model 30 - no retractable sling. Pretty sure Sears replaced the Higgins line of 22s about 1962 or so with the Ted Williams brand.

They're neat little rifles, got mine about 5 years back in Reno for $65.00 - just before people started "rediscovering" them I guess. Added a little Higgins brass scope. Fun for plinking with shorts in the backyard.

[covingtonhouse]

I have a model 28 that I picked up for a song. Found a scope and mount (special 5/16" rail), on Ebay for $30. Perfect little lightweight rifle for my daughter to shoot, and it's relatively jam-free with most any round nose copper-wash bullets. It really likes the CCI AR rounds. I have a .50cal can full of the milk carton packaged 375cts. I really like mine, hope yours works out well for you. As for JC Higgins brand, I also have another Higgins, no model number, but it is a rebranded Marlin 57. I'm not certain, as it was my dad's rifle, but I'm pretty sure it's made after 1962.

https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2011/05/05/guest-post-throwback-to-older-days-jc-higgins-model-28-auto-loading-22-caliber-rifle/

[traveler1952]

I have a model 30 and 36.
I also have the model 30 that myself and my 6 brothers learned to shot as kids.
Dam we abused that thing.