How much is your antique gun worth? These readers find out

COLLECTOR’S CORNER

The Model 34 was the first repeating bolt-action .22 offered by Remington, coming after the single-shot Model 33. Sporting a 24-inch barrel, it was only made between 1932 and 1936, with a total production of 162,941 rifles. The tubular magazine accepted all three sizes of .22 rimfire cartridges: 15 Long Rifles, 17 Longs or 22 Shorts.

The Model 34 was designed for Remington by C.C. Loomis. A patented feature was the innovative cartridge-lifter system, which raised each fresh shell to feed straight into the chamber without the bullet nose touching the rear of the chamber. It was felt that would enhance accuracy, since there was less chance of the bullet nose getting distorted. The feature was later dropped as not being worth the additional cost to make.

Collecting rimfires from Remington and other manufacturers is a field of growing interest among collectors because there are many variations. Plus, you can assemble an interesting collection without spending a fortune. In 95 per cent or better of its original condition, the Model 34 would likely be worth $400 to $500. Most were originally bought to be used, so they’ve seen considerable wear and tear over the last 85 years. The rifle pictured here, which has little original finish and some surface rust, would more likely bring $100 to $150. As a family heirloom, however, it is certainly worth more to its owners.